Generalized Functions and Partial Differential Equations

This self-contained treatment develops the theory of generalized functions and the theory of distributions, and it systematically applies them to solving a variety of problems in partial differential equations. A major portion of the text is based on material included in the books of L. Schwartz, who developed the theory of distributions, and in the books of Gelfand and Shilov, who deal with generalized functions of any class and their use in solving the Cauchy problem. In addition, the author provides applications developed through his own research. Geared toward upper-level undergraduates and graduate students, the text assumes a sound knowledge of both real and complex variables. Familiarity with the basic theory of functional analysis, especially normed spaces, is helpful but not necessary. An introductory chapter features helpful background on topological spaces. Applications to partial differential equations include a treatment of the Cauchy problem, the Goursat problem, fundamental solutions, existence and differentiality of solutions of equations with constants, coefficients, and related topics. Supplementary materials include end-of-chapter problems, bibliographical remarks, and a bibliography.