MTH 211: Linear Algebra

Have you ever wondered how computer programs that rotate 3 dimensional objects work? Have you ever asked yourself what the precise meaning of the word `` dimension" is (as in:`` we live in a 4 dimensional space")? Have you ever tried to solve systems of 5 equations with 10 unknowns?

Linear algebra is a place where all these questions can be addressed. It is a neat, polished and relatively simple theory that combines geometry and algebra. As a simple example of this combination, the solution to the equation ax+by=c (algebra) is a line (geometry). What if you try to solve two such equations together? The theory of linear algebra is now very well understood and accessible. It is fundamental in many scientific fields as well as in economics. Linear models are often the first step towards understanding more complicated models.

This course begins where your high school algebra and geometry courses probably ended: solving systems of linear equations and understanding the geometry of 2 and 3 dimensional spaces. You will be exposed to both the computational and theoretical sides of linear algebra.