An Introduction to the Mathematical Theory of Waves

Linear and nonlinear waves are a central part of the theory of PDEs. This book begins with a description of one-dimensional waves and their visualization through computer-aided techniques. Next, traveling waves are covered, such as solitary waves for the Klein-Gordon and KdV equations. Finally, the author gives a lucid discussion of waves arising from conservation laws, including shock and rarefaction waves. As an application, interesting models of traffic flow are used to illustrate conservation laws and wave phenomena.
This book is based on a course given by the author at the IAS/Park City Mathematics Institute. It is suitable for independent study by undergraduate students in mathematics, engineering, and science programs.