Linear algebra and discrete dynamical systems

This course is an introduction to linear algebra and discrete dynamical systems. Linear algebra is the study of linear functions of several variables and their transformation properties. Matrices and matrix algebra are used to study and model them. Many real-world phenomena are modeled by functions of several variables, and it is often important to understand the long-term behavior of the "dynamics" of repeatedly iterating such functions. Discrete dynamical systems is the study of such dynamics. We will examine the dynamics of linear maps of several variables, as well as the nonlinear maps of just one variable, whose dynamics are already quite interesting.

You will notice connections to calculus (Math 11) and see common themes with your later study of differential equations (Math 13) and multivariable calculus (Math 14).

Linear Algebra: A Modern Introduction, 2nd edition by David Poole (ISBN 0-534-34174-8).

Doing the reading will be essential for success in this course. We may occasionally assign homework from sections we have not yet covered, which means that you will need to read ahead.

• Homework assignments will be due on Tuesdays and Fridays at the start of class and announced on the "Homework/Schedule" page of this course website.
• No late homeworks will be accepted. Your lowest homework score will be dropped.
• Each student is also responsible for attending all lectures and hearing all announcements.

• There will be two take-home exams:
  • the first will be handed out Fri, Nov 16 and be due at the start class on Mon, Nov 19,
  • and the second will be handed out Wed, Dec 12 and be due by noon on Wed, Dec 19.
• Your two exams and homework total each count towards one-third of your grade.

Cooperation among students on homework is very much encouraged, but each student is expected to write up his or her own solutions individually. Comprehension is the goal of working on problems, so you should understand solutions well enough to write them up yourself.

In addition, you should cite any sources of help that you use. If you work with a classmate on a problem, be sure to acknowledge that person in your homework write-up.

Harvey Mudd's honor code applies in all matters of conduct concerning this course.

Students who need accommodations for a disability are encouraged to discuss this with us as soon as possible so that we may make the appropriate arrangements.