The infinite and the infinitesimal in models for natural phenomena

L. A. Segel
Rev. Mod. Phys. 63, 225 – Published 1 April 1991
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Abstract

A number of examples are reviewed wherein profitable use has been made of idealizations that involve infinite or infinitesimal quantities. Contexts range from pendulums and reacting chemicals via diffusion and convection theory to duck-shaped limit cycles and economics.

    DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/RevModPhys.63.225

    ©1991 American Physical Society

    Authors & Affiliations

    L. A. Segel

    • Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel

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    Issue

    Vol. 63, Iss. 2 — April - June 1991

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