This is an introduction to nonlinear functional analysis, in particular to those methods based on differential calculus in Banach spaces. It is in two parts; the first deals with the geometry of Banach spaces and includes a discussion of local and global inversion theorems for differentiable mappings. In the second part, the authors are more concerned with bifurcation theory, including the Hopf bifurcation. They include plenty of motivational and illustrative applications, which indeed provide much of the justification of nonlinear analysis. In particular, they discuss bifurcation problems arising from such areas as mechanics and fluid dynamics. The book is intended to accompany upper division courses for students of pure and applied mathematics and physics; exercises are consequently included.


Many problems in science and engineering are described by nonlinear differential equations, which can be notoriously difficult to solve. Through the interplay of topological and variational ideas, methods of nonlinear analysis are able to tackle such fundamental problems. This graduate text explains some of the key techniques in a way that will be appreciated by mathematicians, physicists and engineers. Starting from elementary tools of bifurcation theory and analysis, the authors cover a number of more modern topics from critical point theory to elliptic partial differential equations. A series of Appendices give convenient accounts of a variety of advanced topics that will introduce the reader to areas of current research. The book is amply illustrated and many chapters are rounded off with a set of exercises.