Summary

Here, the author provides professionals in environmental research and management with the information they need with respect to computer modelling: An understanding of the mathematical fundamentals and the choice of the optimal approach and corresponding software for their particular task. - Numerous illustrations, flowcharts and graphs, partly in color, as well as worked examples help in comprehending complex mathematical tasks and their solutions without the use of confusing mathematical formalism - Case studies from various fields of application make it easier to apply simulation models for the solution of real-world problems - Contains a detailed summary of currently available software tools. The worked examples and case studies cover a broad range of environmental systems and processes, including agroecosystems, fertilizing schemes, pesticide application, population dynamics, environmental fate modelling, and hydrology, adopting such modern mathematical methodology as fuzzy logic, hybrid Petri nets, and optimum control theory.