In the 19th century, the Fourier transformation was introduced to study various problems of partial differential equations. Since 1960, this old tool has been developed into a well-organized theory called microlocal analysis that is based on the concept of the pseudo-differential operator. This book provides the fundamental knowledge non-specialists need in order to use microlocal analysis. It is strictly mathematical in the sense that it contains precise definitions, statements of theorems and complete proofs, and follows the usual method of pure mathematics. The book explains the origin of the theory (i.e., Fourier transformation), presents an elementary construcion of distribution theory, and features a careful exposition of standard pseudodifferential theory. Exercises, historical notes, and bibliographical references are included to round out this essential book for mathematics students; engineers, physicists, and mathematicians who use partial differential equations; and advanced mathematics instructors.
