Continuum Models and Discrete Systems

The interplay between discrete and continuum descriptions of physical systems and mathematical models is one of the more long lasting paradigms in the physical sciences as well as in the mathematical sciences. This is exemplified by the sequence of CMDS (Continuum Models and Discrete Systems) conferences, of which this volume summarizes the tenth conference (CMDSIO), which took place in Shoresh, Israel, in June 2003. It contains 65 articles, written by the various participants in this conference. These are scientists who are doing scientific research in Physics, Mathematics, Mechanics, Engineering, Earth Sciences, etc.§Topics covered include models for growth and evaporation of thin films, mechanical and electrical properties of composite media, defects and inhomogeneities in solids, mechanisms for mechanical and electrical failure of solids, earthquakes, dynamics of defects, fluid flow and rheology in porous soils and granular media, elasticity and force chains in granular media, percolation problems, models for desertification phase transition in arid climates, the reliability and faithfulness of continuum models for discrete phenomena, etc.