Harmonic Maps, Loop Groups, and Integrable Systems

Harmonic maps are generalisations of the concept of geodesics.\n\nThey encompass many fundamental examples in differential geometry and have recently become of widespread use in many areas of mathematics and mathematical physics. This is an accessible introduction to some of the fundamental connections between differential geometry, Lie groups, and integrable Hamiltonian systems. The specific goal of the book is to show how the theory of loop groups can be used to study harmonic maps. By concentrating on the main ideas and examples, the author leads up to topics of current research. The book is suitable for students who are beginning to study manifolds and Lie groups, and should be of interest both to mathematicians and to theoretical physicists. Additional ISBNs 0521580854, 1107108829, 0521589320, 9780521580854, 9781107108820, 9780521589321Harmonic Maps, Loop Groups, and Integrable Systems 1st Edition is written by Martin A. Guest and published by Cambridge University Press. ISBNs for Harmonic Maps, Loop Groups, and Integrable Systems are 9781107108820, 1107108829 and the print ISBNs are 9780521580854, 0521580854. Additional ISBNs include 0521580854, 1107108829, 0521589320, 9780521580854, 9781107108820, 9780521589321.