Mathematics (MATH) 271

Overview

Mathematics 271: Linear Algebra II continues the study of linear algebra from Mathematics 270. Mathematics 271 is suggested for students in the science programs. The course covers intermediate topics of linear algebra such as general vector spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, inner product spaces, diagonalization and quadratic forms, and general linear transformations and applications of linear algebra.

Outline

Unit 1: General Vector Spaces

• Some of the topics covered in this unit are vector spaces; subspaces; linear independence; bases and dimension; change of basis; row, column and null spaces; rank and nullity; matrix transformations; and applications to computer graphics in 3D.

Unit 2: Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

• Some of the topics covered in this unit are eigenvalues and eigenvectors; matrix diagonalization; and applications to genetics.

Unit 3: Inner Product Spaces

• Some of the topics covered in this unit are inner product spaces; orthogonality; Gram-Schmidt process; QR-decomposition; and method of least squares.

Unit 4: Diagonalization and Quadratic Forms

• Some of the topics covered in this unit are orthogonal matrices; orthogonal diagonalization; symmetric matrices; and applications of quadratic forms to conics.

Unit 5: General Linear Transformations

• Some of the topics covered in this unit are general linear transformations; composition and inverse of linear transformations; isomorphism; similarity; and applications to cryptography.

Evaluation

To receive credit for MATH 271, you must achieve a composite course grade of at least “D” (50 percent) and a grade of at least 50 percent on the final examination. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:

Activity	Weighting
5 Tutor-marked Exercises (4% each)	20%
Final Exam	80%
Total	100%

To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.

Course Materials

Textbooks

Other materials

The course materials include a Study Guide and Course Orientation.
Note: Calculators are not allowed during the examination.