Linear algebra and its applications / David C. Lay, Steven R. Lay, Judi J. McDonald.

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

Linear Equations in Linear Algebra -- Matrix Algebra -- Determinants -- Vector Spaces -- Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors -- Orthogonality and Least Squares -- Symmetric Matrices and Quadratic Forms -- The Geometry of Vector Spaces -- Optimization -- Finite-State Markov Chains -- Appendixes -- Glossary.

For courses in Linear Algebra. Fosters the concepts and skills needed for future careers Linear Algebra and Its Applications offers a modern elementary introduction with broad, relevant applications. With traditional texts, the early stages of the course are relatively easy as material is presented in a familiar, concrete setting, but students often hit a wall when abstract concepts are introduced. Certain concepts fundamental to the study of linear algebra (such as linear independence, vector space, and linear transformations) require time to assimilate -- and students' understanding of them is vital. Lay, Lay, and McDonald make these concepts more accessible by introducing them early in a familiar, concrete ℝn setting, developing them gradually, and returning to them throughout the text so that students can grasp them when they are discussed in the abstract.