Introduction to Functional Equations

Functional equations form a modern branch of mathematics. This book provides an elementary yet comprehensive introduction to the field of functional equations and stabilities. Concentrating on functional equations that are real or complex, the authors present many fundamental techniques for solving these functional equations. Topics covered in the text include Cauchy equations, additive functions, functional equations for distance measures, and Pexider’s functional equations. Each chapter points to various developments in abstract domains, such as semigroups, groups, or Banach spaces, and includes exercises for both self-study and classroom use.

Introduction to Functional Equations grew out of a set of class notes from an introductory graduate level course at the University of Louisville. This introductory text communicates an elementary exposition of valued functional equations where the unknown functions take on real or complex values.

In order to make the presentation as manageable as possible for students from a variety of disciplines, the book chooses not to focus on functional equations where the unknown functions take on values on algebraic structures such as groups, rings, or fields. However, each chapter includes sections highlighting various developments of the main equations treated in that chapter. For advanced students, the book introduces functional equations in abstract domains like semigroups, groups, and Banach spaces.

Functional equations covered include:

• Cauchy Functional Equations and Applications
• The Jensen Functional Equation
• Pexider''s Functional Equation
• Quadratic Functional Equation
• D''Alembert Functional Equation
• Trigonometric Functional Equations
• Pompeiu Functional Equation
• Hosszu Functional Equation
• Davison Functional Equation
• Abel Functional Equation
• Mean Value Type Functional Equations
• Functional Equations for Distance Measures

The innovation of solving functional equations lies in finding the right tricks for a particular equation. Accessible and rooted in current theory, methods, and research, this book sharpens mathematical competency and prepares students of mathematics and engineering for further work in advanced functional equations.