MATH 107-01 and 02, Linear Methods, Fall 2004

Abstract

Linear algebra is a powerful subject with applications to many problems that arise in human endeavors. We will study some methods that have been developed to address these problems and examine some of their theoretical foundations. The problems and examples we will consider come from subjects like business, economics, and politics. We will use Excel throughout the course. We will begin with a brief review of (systems of) linear equations. Then, we will learn how to solve linear systems using Gauss-Jordan elimination. We will discuss matrix algebra with applications to input-output analysis and Markov processes. Input-output analysis is used to determine how interdependent producers should behave. Markov processes are used to predict long term values of interdependent quantities that vary probabilistically.