Modern Mathematics: Discrete Methods

This is the first part of a theoretical (i.e., proof-based) sequence in discrete mathematics and linear algebra. Covers general vector spaces, linear maps and duality, eigenvalues, inner product spaces, spectral theorem, counting techniques, and linear algebra methods in discrete mathematics including spectral graph theory and dimension arguments. The linear algebra content is covered jointly with Math 61CM. Students should have an interest in a theoretical approach to the subject. Prerequisite: score of 5 on the BC-level Advanced Placement calculus exam, or consent of the instructor.This series provides the necessary mathematical background for majors in Computer Science, Economics, Mathematics, Mathematical and Computational Science, and most Natural Sciences and some Engineering majors. Those who plan to major in Physics or in Engineering majors requiring Math 50¿s beyond Math 51 are recommended to take Math 60CM.