Numerical Solutions of Initial Value Problems Using Mathematica

The book contains a detailed account of numerical solutions of differential equations of a number of elementary problems of physics using Euler and second order Runge-Kutta methods using Mathematica 6.0. The problems are motion under constant force (free fall), motion under Hooke’s law force (simple harmonic motion), motion under combination of Hooke’s law force and a velocity dependent damping force (damped harmonic motion) and radioactive decay law. Also included are uses of Mathematica in dealing with complex numbers, in solving system of linear equations, in carrying out differentiation and integration, and in dealing with matrices.