MAT 217 — Linear Algebra
This course introduces the concepts and methods of solution of systems of linear equations with an arbitrary number of equations and variables by using both the elimination and matrix methods; algebra of matrices; determinants; vector spaces and subspaces, norm of a vector and distance between vectors; linear dependence and independence; basis and dimension of vector spaces, orthogonal and orthonormal bases, change of basis; linear transformations and their matrices, kernel and image; real inner products, eigenvalues and eigenvectors; diagonalization of symmetric matrices and its application to quadratic forms. During the course, students will be trained to use technology to solve linear algebraic problems. The technological means include Mathematica, Maple, Matlab, Sage, or graphing calculator TI-89 or equivalent.