Linear Algebra: With Applications

by Gareth Williams

Introductory courses in Linear Algebra can be taught in a variety of ways and the order of topics offered may vary based on the needs of the students. Linear Algebra with Applications, Alternate Eighth Edition provides instructors with an additional presentation of course material. In this edition earlier chapters cover systems of linear equations, matrices, and determinants. The more abstract material on vector spaces starts later, in Chapter 4, with the introduction of the vector space R(n). This leads directly into general vector spaces and linear transformations. This alternate edition is especially appropriate for students preparing to apply linear equations and matrices in their own fields.

Clear, concise, and comprehensive--the Alternate Eighth Edition continues to educate and enlighten students, leading to a mastery of the matehmatics and an understainding of how to apply it.

New and Key Features of the Alternate Eighth

- Updated and revised throughout with new section material and exercises included in every chapter.
- Provides students with a flexible blend of theory, important numerical techniques and interesting relevant applications.
- Includes discussions of the role of linear algebra in many areas such as the operation of the Google search engine and the global structure of the worldwide air transportation network.
- A MATLAB manual that ties into the regular course material is included as an appendix. These ideas can be implemented on any matrix algebra software package. A graphing calculator manual is also included.
- A Student Solutions Manual that contain solutions to selected exercises is available as a supplement, An Instructor Complete Solutions Manual containing worked solutions to all exercises is also available.

Genres: Mathematics, Textbooks

574 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1984

Reviews

[Barrett Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is great as an introduction to linear algebra or for someone who wants to know how to use linear algebra to solve practical problems. Every chapter ends with applications such as using markov chains to quantify population movements and genetics, google, weather prediction, cryptography (hamming codes), Quadratic forms (relativity) , difference equations, normal modes, economics, fractals, traffic flow, electrical networks. This is an essential book in my opinion.

[Teddy · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interestingly formatted book- touches briefly on topics like linear independence, and determinants in the first couple of chapters, then re-covers them a few chapters later. Not as useful as just covering any given topic all at once, I think.

The problems were also not quite ideal- either too easy (trivial computations) or too difficult (abstract proofs). This book definitely works best if you've already had a proofs class.

That said, explanations of concepts were pretty clear, examples were useful, and the text was very readable. There were also optional sections on practical applications of linear algebra, which were neat to read

Overall, a good reference book and source for problems, but not what I'd choose for a primary text.