CMU 21-240 Matrix Algebra
This course introduces the subject of linear algebra. The emphasis throughout the course will be more on how to calculate things than how to prove them, though we shall encounter many useful theorems along the way. The first weeks will examine linear equations and their relation to matrices, the properties of matrices and how they act on vectors, and determinants. We shall then delve a bit deeper into the properties of matrices. Every matrix has directions that are ‘natural’ to it; these are called eigenvectors. Finding the eigenvectors is very useful for understanding whatever system we want to study and can reveal details that are not immediately apparent in the standard form of a matrix. The course will end with a few more interesting topics about matrices. Lectures: 11:30–12:20 Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Hamerschlag Hall B131 Recitations: 10:30–11:20 Tuesdays, Doherty Hall 1211 (Section A) 12:30– 1:20 Tuesdays, Wean Hall 4709 (Section B) Office hours: