An Introduction to Orthogonal Polynomials - (Dover Books on Mathematics) by Theodore S Chihara (Paperback)

About the Book

Concise introduction covers general elementary theory, including the representation theorem and distribution functions, continued fractions and chain sequences, the recurrence formula, special functions, and some specific systems. 1978 edition.

Book Synopsis

Assuming no further prerequisites than a first undergraduate course in real analysis, this concise introduction covers general elementary theory related to orthogonal polynomials. It includes necessary background material of the type not usually found in the standard mathematics curriculum. Suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, it is also appropriate for independent study.
Topics include the representation theorem and distribution functions, continued fractions and chain sequences, the recurrence formula and properties of orthogonal polynomials, special functions, and some specific systems of orthogonal polynomials. Numerous examples and exercises, an extensive bibliography, and a table of recurrence formulas supplement the text.

About the Author

Ted Chihara received his PhD from Purdue University and co-founded the Mathematics Department at Seattle University. He is well known as a researcher in the area of orthogonal polynomials.