Modelling nature : an introduction to mathematical modelling of natural systems / Edward Gillman

Includes bibliographical references (pages 255-257) and index.

1. Modelling the Changing Arctic Ice.-- 2. Modelling Bacterial Population Growth.--3. Modelling the Growth of Human Populations. --4. Modelling Radioactive Decay to Determine the Age of the Earth.-- 5. Modelling the Distribution of Butterfly Species.-- 6. Volcanic Gas, Environmental Damage and Statistical Models

"This short textbook introduces students to the concept of describing natural systems using mathematical models. The authors highlight the variety of ways in which natural systems lend themselves to mathematical description and the importance of models in revealing fundamental processes. The process of science via the building, testing and use of models (theories) is described and forms the structure of the book. The book covers a broad range from the molecular to ecosystems and whole-Earth phenomena. Themes running through the chapters include scale (temporal and spatial), change (linear and nonlinear), emergent phenomena and uncertainty. Mathematical descriptions are kept to a minimum and mechanisms and results are illustrated in graphical form wherever possible."--Provided by publisher