No label defined (Q4781189)

This linear algebra text is one of a very large category of such books, for which there seems to be an insatiable market. There appears to be quite a widespread reluctance on the part of university teachers to prescribe some selected existing text. Probably the main reason is that opinions vary fairly widely as to (1) how to best present linear algebra at the sophomore and junior level of mathematics and to students of client disciplines such as computer science, engineering, chemistry, biology, economics, actuarial science and business, and (2) what to include in such a course. Two features which these books usually have compared to more advanced textbooks is that (a) euclidean \(n\)-space is used from the beginning to motivate linear algebra, and (b) systems of linear equations are introduced very early on and are often used in proofs. Formal vector and inner product spaces are included more or less as an afterthought. Feature (a) tends to make it difficult to appreciate the meaning of basis and dimension, and feature (b) obscures the fact that the strength of linear algebra is that it can be done practically matrix-free. After these general comments we will now turn to this particular book. The authors have focussed ``on those aspects of the subject that are most likely to have practical value to the student, but at the same time not compromise the intrinsic mathematical form of the subject. \dots Thus, a contemporary linear algera text must foster mathematical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and exposure to real-world applications. \dots Theorems and proofs are presented precisely, but in a style that is appropriate for beginning students. \dots This is not intended to be a book on numerical methods of linear algebra.'' The chapter headings are: 1. Vectors (with \(n\)-space and dot product), 2. Systems of linear equations, 3. Matrices and matrix algebra (with LU-decomposition), 4. Determinants, 5. Matrix models (with Markov chains, I-O models, Gauss-Seidel and Jacobi iteration, the power method and internet search engines), 6. Linear transformations, 7. Dimension and structure (with QR-decomposition and Householder transformations), 8. Diagonalization (with pseudoinverse, complex matrices and systems of differential equations), 9. General vector spaces. The book has extensive exercise sets, which are divided into four categories: Basic, Discussion \& Discovery, Working with Proofs, and Technology. There are also several different supplements available for both the instructor and the student. The layout of the book is very clear and aesthetically done, with headings and diagrams in color and with many historical highlights in colored boxes. It deserves to become a popular textbook with instructor and student alike.