Computational Homology

Homology is a powerful tool used by mathematicians to study the properties of spaces and maps that are insensitive to small perturbations. Following this is a section containing extensions to further developments in algebraic topology, applications to computational dynamics, and applications to image processing. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in applying homology to problems involving geometric data sets, whether obtained from physical measurements or generated through numerical simulations. This book presents a novel approach to homology that emphasizes the development of efficient algorithms for computation. As well as providing a highly accessible introduction to the mathematical theory, the authors describe a variety of potential applications of homology in fields such as digital image processing and nonlinear dynamics. The material is aimed at a broad audience of engineers, computer scientists, nonlinear scientists, and applied mathematicians. Mathematical prerequisites have been kept to a minimum and there are numerous examples and exercises throughout the text. The book is complemented by a website containing software programs and projects that help to further illustrate the material described within.