Can anyone recommend a good linear algebra/ODE book?

  • Context: Linear Algebra 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Eclair_de_XII
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Book Linear
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books on linear algebra and ordinary differential equations (ODEs), with a specific interest in texts that explain the theory of function spaces and linear transformations as they relate to ODEs. Participants are seeking resources for an Intro to Differential Equations class and exploring how these concepts interconnect.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests book recommendations that cover function spaces and linear transformations in the context of ODEs for a class project.
  • Another participant suggests a free PDF resource that includes a section on differential equations, noting its extensive coverage of various topics.
  • Several participants recommend Gilbert Strang's book for its applications and clarity, with one mentioning its relevance to geodesy and GPS.
  • Hoffman/Kunze and Axler are mentioned as in-depth resources on functional analysis and transformations.
  • George Simmons' book on differential equations is highlighted for its excellent exposition of both ODEs and PDEs, with participants recalling positive experiences with earlier editions.
  • One participant expresses a need for more detailed resources specifically addressing the interpretation of differential equations as linear transformations of function spaces.
  • A participant shares an example involving a basis for a function space and the application of a differential operator, seeking clarification on the concept of linear transformations in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of the suggested books, but there is no consensus on a specific text that thoroughly addresses the interpretation of differential equations as linear transformations of function spaces. Multiple competing views and suggestions remain present.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about their current understanding of linear algebra and function spaces, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge that may affect their ability to engage with the recommended texts fully.

Eclair_de_XII
Messages
1,082
Reaction score
91
In particular, I would like a book that explains the theory of function spaces, linear transformations, to explain the ways one can interpret ODEs as linear transformations on function spaces. I need to read up on these for a project in my Intro to Differential Equations class. Any suggestions will be welcome. Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You might want to take a look at:

https://math.byu.edu/~klkuttle/Linearalgebra.pdf

If you don't have some prior background in Linear Algebra it will probably be a bit much. I like that the text is free and covers a LOT of different stuff (including householder reflections and numerical / algorithmic concerns). Plus its free.

Note that on page 185 there is an exorcise that begins with "This and the following problems will present most of a differential equations course. Most of the explanations are given. You fill in any details needed..."

Also there is Appendix D (page 403) entitled "Differential Equations".
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Eclair_de_XII
Thank you. The fact that it's free and in pdf form saves me much trouble, because I have all my textbooks ready on my e-reader, anyway.
 
I find Gilbert Strang's book to be invaluable. Still consult it from time to time, and the applications section is quite nice.

https://www.valorebooks.com/textbooks/introduction-to-linear-algebra-fourth-edition-4th-edition/9780980232714?utm_source=Froogle&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=Froogle&date=02/18/17
 
Hoffman/Kunze and Axler covers the basics of functional analysis and transformation in-depth. You might want to consult H/K.
 
I learned linear algebra many years ago and have not been keeping up with the current books. Last week I took out Strang's book with Kai Borre, that covers linear algebra, geodesy and GPS. I found it great
 
Also by the way, you might be interested in George Simmon's book in the differential equations, which was published around 1980s or 1990s. The book has superb exposition of both ODE and PDE, both in theories and applications.
 
I do not remember the edition of Simmons DE that I used. I liked it but I took it from the Simmons textbook in 1976. I really liked Simmons including the Historical Notes.
 
mpresic said:
I do not remember the edition of Simmons DE that I used. I liked it but I took it from the Simmons textbook in 1976. I really liked Simmons including the Historical Notes.

I believe that is a correct edition. It seems that newer edition came out on the last year with more topics. He is extremely good writer (Calculus, Topology and Modern Analysis, and Precal.).
 
  • #10
These are all good suggestions. So are there any books that go into detail about how differential equations can be interpreted as a linear transformation of a function space? I'm not finding anything specific about it in most of the books listed.
 
  • #11
I mean I have an idea of what function spaces are, but I need some elaboration and clarification. Basically, what I'm thinking is that for example, ##B=##{##x^2,xe^x,x^2e^x##} forms a basis for a function space that consist of linear combinations of those three elements. Then using the differential operator ##D##, I can perform a change of basis to ##B'=##{##2x,e^x+xe^x,2xe^x+x^2e^x##} and I guess that will be my linear transformation? So I use that operator again to form ##B''=##{##2,2e^x+xe^x,2e^x+4xe^x+x^2e^x##}. In conjunction, putting these three vectors in a 3-by-3 matrix will form my function space, I think? I suppose I should review my linear algebra.
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
11K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K