This is the course webpage for MATH 225, Section Q1, Winter 2013.
Office hours: Monday, 09:00–09:50; Wednesday, 10:00–10:50; Friday, 09:00–09:50.
The course outline can be found here.
Required textbook: Linear Algebra and Its Applications, Fourth Edition, David C Lay.
Why study linear algebra? The subject of linear algebra has something for everyone who is interested in mathematics or science. For those who are looking for ways to apply mathematics to their own studies, such as in the physical sciences or statistics, linear algebra will provide a nice toolkit with which to begin tackling certain important problems. If you liked the basics covered in Linear Algebra I (MATH 125) enough to take Linear Algebra II (MATH 225), then you will have the opportunity to think more about how these tools can be applied. (For example, have you ever wondered how one finds the line of best fit through a set of data points, without just guessing? We will find out in MATH 225.)
If you see yourself pursuing mathematics for its own sake, then this course is an important step toward thinking in a relatively modern way about the incredible structure that is common in so much of mathematics. The fundamental ideas behind linear algebra reappear in the ubiquitous subject of abstract algebra, which sees groups, rings, fields, modules (and more) working hard to place a whole host of mathematical problems in a manageable setting.
Lastly, be prepared to work hard! There will be many problems to think about, but don't be put off by that. If you approach the course wishing to be engaged and challenged, then there is a good chance you will get a lot out of it.