Mathematical structure of the singularities at the transitions between steady states in hydrodynamic systems (Q791369)

This book describes a new method for determining the critical parameters controlling transition from one steady state to another in nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations: the dynamical systems arising in fluid dynamics. Catastrophe theory has been a potential tool for discovering the nature of transitional behaviour in physical systems. However, to apply it to any evolutionary system, one needs to have a potential or Lyapunov function which, in general, is extremely difficult to find. John Mather (*) originated a singularity theory during his work to establish the mathematical foundations of catastrophe theory. This theory is mathematically rigorous and does not require Lyapunov functions for the determination of critical parameters for the transitional behaviour of nonlinear systems. The authors first describe Mather's theory [(*) \textit{J. N. Mather}, Ann. Math., II. Ser. 87, 89-104 (1968; Zbl 0159.249); ibid. 89, 254-291 (1969; Zbl 0177.260); Inst. Haut. Etud. Sci., Publ. Math. 35 (1968), 127-156 (1969; Zbl 0159.250)] operationally using examples instead of proofs, and then develop a procedure for its application to physical problems whose dynamics is governed by ordinary differential equations. This monograph systematically describes the procedure to identify the crucial parameters in the equations and their association with physical effects. The strength of the singularity theory is manifested by the fact that the solution of the theoretical model can be directly compared with experimental data. An apparent shortcoming of Mather's theory is its inability to describe the stability characteristics of the dynamical systems. The extension of this theory to describe the stability characteristics is done in the last chapter of the book. This book serves well the purpose of scientists interested in ascertaining the transitional behaviour of physical systems.