Description:Finite fields are algebraic structures in which there is much research interest. This book gives a state-of-the-art account of finite fields and their applications in communications (coding theory, cryptology), combinatorics, design theory, quasirandom points, algorithms and their complexity. Typically, theory and application are tightly interwoven in the survey articles and original research papers included here. The book also demonstrates interconnections with other branches of pure mathematics such as number theory, group theory and algebraic geometry. This volume is an invaluable resource for any researcher in finite fields or related areas.