Linear Algebra: A First Course with Applications

Linear Algebra: A First Course with Applications explores the fundamental ideas of linear algebra, including vector spaces, subspaces, basis, span, linear independence, linear transformation, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors, as well as a variety of applications, from inventories to graphics to Google's PageRank. Unlike other texts on the subject, this classroom-tested book gives students enough time to absorb the material by focusing on vector spaces early on and using computational sections as numerical interludes. It offers introductions to Maple (TM), MATLAB (R), and TI-83 Plus for calculating matrix inverses, determinants, eigenvalues, and eigenvectors. Moving from the specific to the general, the author raises questions, provides motivation, and discusses strategy before presenting answers. Discussions of motivation and strategy include content and context to help students learn.