The Theory of Distributions

This book is a self-contained introduction to the theory of distributions sometimes called generalized functions. Most books on this subject are either intuitive or else rigorous but technically demanding. Here by concentrating on the essential results the authors have introduced the subject in a way that will most appeal to non-specialists yet is still mathematically correct. Topics covered include: the Dirac delta function generalized functions dipoles quadrupoles pseudofunctions and Fourier transforms. The self-contained treatment does not require any knowledge of functional analysis or topological vector spaces; even measure theory is not needed for most of the book. The book which can be used either to accompany a course or for self-study is liberally supplied with exercises. It will be a valuable introduction to the theory of distributions and their applications for students or professionals in statistics physics engineering and economics.