Basic multivariable calculus

``Basic multivariable calculus (BMC) is an elementary text-book written by three research mathematicians ``for a one-semester sophomore-level course in the calculus of functions of several variables, including vector analysis. Most of the standard topics of a course at such a level are presented simply and clearly under seven chapter headings: ``Algebra and geometry of the Euclidean space (of two, three and \(n\)- dimensions), ``Differentiation, ``Higher derivatives and extrema, ``Vector-valued functions, ``Multiple integrals, ``Integrals over curves and surfaces, ``The integral theorems of vector analysis. The authors avoid all topological preliminaries (open sets, compactness, etc.) and limit themselves to an exposition of the mechanics of the differentiation of functions of several variables (partial derivatives, directional derivatives, the chain rule, higher order derivatives, etc.) and their integration (line, surface and volume integrals as well as the basic theorems which go under the names of Gauss, Green and Stokes). The derivative is defined as a matrix and differentiability is defined exactly; indications are given as to how double and triple integrals on rectangular domains can be defined but the emphasis is on their calculation via iterated integrals and change of variables, theorems concerning which are indicated without proofs. Surface integrals are defined on parametrized surfaces and the three integral theorems of elementary vector analysis are presented with their usual justifications. In general, everything is presented with clarity; in a subject fraught with grave theoretical difficulties (which is at the same time of fundamental use in numerous applications, even at the stage of studies at the sophomore level) the authors have steered clear of the dangers of sophisticated exact formulations (which would be incomprehensible to students at the level concerned) and overenthusiastic inexact statements (which the future students of mathematics would have to unlearn). On the other hand, the authors have cited various instances of current research which are related to the subject matter at hand (algebraic topology, minimal surfaces, Korteweg-de Vries equations,...) as well as indications of many possible serious practical applications. The book may not be suitable for most European Universities which do not have courses at quite this elementary level; however, the thousands of students at the North American Universities who have to take calculus courses in their second year of studies will find the present book a fruitful one to study from. BMC contains numerous exercises, most of them very accessible to the average student; answers to the odd-numbered exercises are provided. The companion book ``Student's guide (announced below) gives fairly detailed and instructive solutions to half of the above odd-numbered exercises. It also gives brief summaries of the different sections of the main book BMC. Further it has some supplementary exercises (with answers). It is my impression that the companion book will be a useful supplement for the user of the main book BMC.

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