Course syllabus

Linjär algebra
Linear Algebra

FMA420, 6 credits, G1 (First Cycle)

Valid for: 2014/15
Decided by: Education Board B
Date of Decision: 2014-04-08

General Information

Main field: Technology.
Compulsory for: BI1, BME1, C2, D1, E1, F1, I1, L1, M1, MD1, N1, Pi1, V1, W2
Language of instruction: The course will be given in Swedish

Aim

The aim of the course is to give a basic introduction to linear algebra. Particular emphasis is put on the role which this plays in applications in different areas of technology, in order to give the future engineer a good foundation for further studies in mathematics as well as other subjects. The aim is furthermore to develop the students' ability to solve problems and to assimilate mathematical text.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

• with confidence be able to solve linear systems of equations and be able to demonstrate an ability to geometrically interpret the solutions of such systems.
• be able to represent, handle and compute with basic geometrical objects in three dimensions, such as points, vectors, lines and planes.
• be able to show a general knowledge of the matrix concept and of its coupling to the concept of a linear transformation, and be able to carrry out elementary matrix operations and to solve matrix equations.
• be able to give an overview of and illustrate mathematical concepts in linear algebra that are used to construct and study matematical models in the applications.
• be able to explain the contents of some central definitions, theorems and proofs.

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

• be able to demonstrate a good ability to carry out algebraic calculations within in the framework of the course.
• in connection with problem solving, be able to demonstrate an ability to independently choose and use mathematical methods within linear algebra.
• in connection with problem solving, be able to demonstrate an ability to integrate concepts from the different parts of the course.
• be able to demonstrate an ability to explain mathematical reasoning in a structured and logically clear way.

Contents

Systems of linear equations.

Vectors. Bases and coordinate systems. Equations for lines and planes in space. Scalar product with applications. Vector product with applications.

Matrices. Rank. Linear transformations. Determinants. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH
Assessment: Written test comprising theory and problems.

Admission

The number of participants is limited to: No
The course overlaps following course/s: FMA421, FMA656, FMA425

Reading list

• Sparr, G: Linjär algebra. Studentlitteratur, 1997, ISBN: 91-44-19752-7.
• Övningar i Linjär algebra. Studentlitteratur, 2007, ISBN: 978-91-44-04878-9. Earlier editions from 2001 or later may also be used.

Contact and other information

Course coordinator: Studierektor Anders Holst, Studierektor@math.lth.se
Course homepage: http://www.ctr.maths.lu.se/course/linalg/