Print Syllabus

Syllabus

MA0036 Linear algebra, 5.0 Credits

Linjär algebra

Subjects

Mathematics/Applied Mathematics

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has only upper-secondary level entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G1N)

Grading scale

Language

Swedish

Prior knowledge

- General entry requirements for courses or study programmes that begin in the first cycle and that are intended for new entrants to higher education
- Mathematics 4 or Mathematics D

Objectives

The course aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge of linear algebra, focusing on the solution of systems of linear equations, computations involving matrices and determinants, as well as an introduction to vectors, vector spaces, and eigenvalues required for further studies.

After successfully completing the course, the student should be able to:

• Solve systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination.

• Perform computations with matrices, including calculating matrix inverses and determinants.

• Explain the concept of a vector, apply the rules of vector operations, and determine whether a set of vectors is linearly independent.

• Explain the concepts of the scalar product and vector product, compute these products, and interpret them geometrically.

• Determine equations of lines and planes, and use them to calculate intersections and distances.

• Explain the concepts of vector spaces, bases, and coordinates.

Content

Subject-related content

• Systems of Linear Equations: row operations, Gaussian elimination, rank, solvability.

• Matrices: matrix arithmetic and matrix inverses.

• Determinants: row and column operations, Cramer’s rule.

• Vectors: vector operations, linear (in)dependence, scalar and vector products; equations of lines and planes; distances, areas, and volumes.

• Introduction to Vector Spaces: bases, coordinates, linear transformations.

• Eigenvectors and Eigenvalues: for matrices; diagonalization.

Teaching formats

The course employs a variety of teaching methods to promote student learning and discussion through lectures and tutorials.

The course emphasizes the development of the following general competences: Critical thinking; Problem solving; Scientific methods

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Approved written exam.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Energy and Technology