Linear Algebra and Differential Equations
MATH 21B
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Linear algebra is one of the most widely used areas of mathematics; it has applications in fields as varied as computer science, economics, engineering, epidemiology, ecology, physics, psychology, archaeology and statistics.
In linear algebra, we study linear transformations, an important group of functions that play a role in the various applications mentioned above.
We'll start from a very concrete perspective, that of solving linear systems, but we'll quickly see that we can also adopt a more geometric perspective, which is often useful. Linear transformations enable us to deal with higher-dimensional phenomena as well as vast amounts of data.
As we progress through the course, the level of abstraction will increase. This is key, because it allows us to generalize our knowledge to broader and broader contexts.
We'll see how linear algebra can be applied to dynamical systems and differential equations, which model processes throughout the natural and social sciences, and to Fourier series, which are used in engineering and the sciences to analyze waves, signals, and other periodic phenomena.
Course Notes
Anti-requisite: Cannot be taken for credit if you have passed MATH 22A or AM 22A
Class Notes
Math 21b is taught in small sections throughout the day on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday schedule (9:00-10:15 am, 10:30-11:45 am, 12-1:15 pm, 1:30-2:45 pm, and 3:00-4:15 pm with sufficient enrollment). For information about how to register for this course and to rank your time preferences, please see the Canvas site.
Exams for this course will ocur throughout the semester on Thursdays in the block from 6:00 - 9:00 pm. Consult Canvas for more details on the exact Thursdays.
The course will have a mandatory information meeting on the morning of the first day of the semester. Information will be available via Canvas.
Midterms will be scheduled on various Thursdays during the block 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. You will sign up for a "Quiz Section" to block this time on your schedule.
If there is an unavoidable academic conflict, please email Sarah Chin explaining your conflict and why it is unavoidable. She will arrange an alternative time for you.
Available for Harvard Cross Registration
NOTE: This course requires additional sections; you will be prompted to choose secondary components during the Add to Cart process
