Math 24: Linear Algebra

Spring 2011

 

Instructor Craig J. Sutton
Lectures MWF 10:00-11:05 (108 Kemeny)
X-Hour Th 12-12:50 (108 Kemeny)
Office Hours TBD
Office 321 Kemeny Hall
E-mail Craig.J.Sutton AT You Know Where
Phone 603-646-1059
HW, Syllabus Handouts, Announcements, etc. Blackboard
Tutorials Sun. & Thurs. 7-9PM (108 Kemeny Hall)

 

Course Description:

This course serves as an introduction to linear algebra which is the study of vector spaces and their linear transformations. Although they are defined by just a few simple rules vector spaces and linear transformations have found wide-ranging and profound applications in mathematics, physics, engineering, economics and many other areas. For instance, we all know how important the derivative of a functions are, but after this class you will be able to see that a derivative is nothing more than a linear transformation between two vector spaces. You will also be in a bette rposition to understand some of the ideas behind Google's page-ranking algorithm.

In this course we will examine vector spaces in the "pristine" world of abstract mathematics. By taking an abstract view of vector spaces we will hone your ability to recognize, analyze and manipulate vector spaces as they arise in "the wild" and we will improve your ability to think like a mathematician.

Topics will include some of the following

  • Mathematical abstraction & the Art of Proof Writing
  • Vector spaces, linear independence and bases
  • Linear transformations and matrices
  • Systems of linear equations, Gaussian elimination & row reduction
  • Eigenvectors and eigenvalues
  • Inner product spaces, the spectral theorem & quadratic forms
  • Canonical forms
  • Vector spaces over arbitrry fields
  • Applications to calculus and geometry

Prerequisites: A keen interest in learning how to think in a mathematically rigorous and abstract manner, as well as a willingness to meet during x-hours. Completion of math 11/12/13/14 also wouldn't hurt. If you are unsure about your preparation for Math 24 or if the difference between Math 22 & Math 24 is not clear to you, please speak with me as soon as possible.

 

Textbook: Linear Algebra (Third Edition), Larry S. Smith, Springer 1998. (available at Wheelock Books).

Tentative Syllabus: This syllabus is subject to change, but it should give you a rough idea of the topics we will cover this term. Check blackboard for up-to-date information.


 

Chapters

Brief Description

Week 1

1 - 3

Vector Space Axioms and Examples; Subspaces; Basics of Writing a Proof

 

Week 2

5 - 7

Linear Span; Linear Independence & Bases; Dimension

 

Week 3

5 - 7

Finite Dimensional Vector Spaces & Bases; Review

 

Week 4

8- 9

Linear Transformations; Hom(V,W)

Week 5

10 - 11

Linear Transformations & Matrices

Week 6

10 - 12

Linear Transformations & Matrices

 

Week 7

13
 

Systems of Linear Equations & Gaussian Elimination

Week 8

14

Eigenvalues & Eigenvectors; Determinants & Characteristic Polynomials
 
Week 9
15
 Inner Product Spaces & Self-Adjoint Transformations
 
Week 10
16
 Spectral Theorem & Review
 

(tentative) Deliverables & (tentative) Grading Guide: The following will probably comprise the written assignemtns for this term.

Your course grade will probably be computed as follows.

Team Project
10%
Homework
15 %
Exam 1
20 %
Exam 2
25%
Final Exam
30%

 

Students with disabilities: If you have a disability and require disability related accomodations please speak to me and Ward Newmeyer, Director of Student Accessibility Services, as soon as possible so we can find a remedy.

 

Last Updated 21 March, 2011