Logo

Basics of Mathematics

Code: 106801
Credits: 6
2026/2027
Degree programme Type Course
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology FB 1

Contact lecturer

Name :
Jordi Villadelprat Yague
Email :
jordi.villadelprat@uab.cat

Teaching staff

Laura Rodriguez Cima
Maria Doris Potosí Rosero

Group languages

You can consult this information at the end of the document.

Prerequisites

This subject is autonomous in the topics covered. However, it is recommended to have basic skills with algebraic calculations and basic notions of differential calculus in one variable.

Objectives

The aim of the subject is knowledge and skill in the use of the basic tools of linear algebra and their applications. It focuses on the study of linear transformations, diagonalization of endomorphisms and their applications. Included are fundamental calculus tools such as complex numbers and matrix calculus.

Learning outcomes

  • CM06 (Identify the mathematical nature of certain physical and chemical phenomena, in order to abstract the essential variables that describe them.) Identify the mathematical nature of certain physical and chemical phenomena, in order to abstract the essential variables that describe them.
  • CM07 (Solve real-world problems that occur in the field of science and technology using mathematical tools and methods.) Solve real-world problems that occur in the field of science and technology using mathematical tools and methods.
  • KM08 (Identify the elementary mathematical models and tools used in calculus, linear algebra and differential equations.) Identify the elementary mathematical models and tools used in calculus, linear algebra and differential equations.
  • SM09 (Express oneself clearly using basic mathematical language.) Express oneself clearly using basic mathematical language.
  • SM10 (Solve simple problems related to matrix calculus, linear equations and first order differential equations.) Solve simple problems related to matrix calculus, linear equations and first order differential equations.
  • SM12 (Use graphical and numerical methods to explore, describe and interpret data.) Use graphical and numerical methods to explore, describe and interpret data.

Contents

1. Complex numbers


Complex numbers and their properties. Trigonometric form and polar form. Operations with complex numbers. Roots of complex numbers. Fundamental theorem of algebra


2. Matrices


Solving systems of linear equations. Addition, product, and transpose of matrices. Elementary transformations. Rank of a matrix. Invertible matrices. Determinants


3. Vector spaces


Definition and examples. Linear dependence and independence. Vector subspaces and systems of generators. Basis, coordinates, and dimension. Basis of the intersection and of sum of subspaces. Change-of-basis matrix.


4. Linear transformations


Definition and examples. Matrix representation. Composition. Dependence of the matrix with respect to a base change. Kernel, image and rank. Computing basis of kernels and images.


5. Diagonalization


Eigenvectors and eigenvalues of an endomorphism. Characteristic polynomial. Diagonalization criterion. Spectral theorem


6. Applications of diagonalization


Sequences with linear recurrences. Linear differential equations and systems of first order linear differential equations.

Learning activities and methodology

Title Hours ECTS Learning outcomes
Self-developed study 91 3.64
Exercise resolution classes 10 0.4
Theory classes 36 1.44
Tutorials 2 0.08
Computer sessions 6 0.24

The subject consists of three main activities.

Theory classes in which the scientific and technical concepts and knowledge specific to the subject are introduced and developed.

Problem classes, complementary to theory classes. Exercises will be solved in order to deepen the understanding of the new scientific and technical concepts and knowledge presented in the theory classes. Usually the student thinks and tries to solve the problems that are discussed in class and arrives at the final optimal solution.

Finally, there will be 3 practice sessions in the computer classroom, where specific software will be used for mathematical calculations.

Annotation: within the schedule set by the centre or degree programme, 15 minutes of one class will be reserved for students to evaluate their lecturers and their courses or modules through questionnaires.

Assessment

Continuous assessment activities

Title Weight Hours ECTS Learning outcomes
Final exam 50% 2 0.08 CM06, CM07, KM08, SM09, SM10
Evaluation of practices 15% 1 0.04 SM09, SM10, SM12
Mid-term exam 35% 2 0.08 CM06, CM07, SM10

Continuous assessment

It is organized into the following blocks, each of which will have a specific weight in the final grade:


Labs (PR): There will be three lab sessions that will be assessed.


First midterm (P1): Written test at the midpoint of the semester.


Second midterm (P2): Written test at the end of the semester.


If N1=0.15PR+0.35P1+0.5P2 is greater than or equal to 5, then N1 is the final grade for the course. If N1 is lower than 5, the student may take a retake exam (R). In this case, if N2=0.15SEM+0.85*R is greater than or equal to 5, then the final grade for the course is 5. Otherwise, the final grade for the course is max(N1,N2). In any case, the student must have participated in 66% of the assessed activities.


Single assessment

On the same day as the second midterm of the continuous assessment, students who have previously opted for the single assessment will take a final exam (F) covering the entire syllabus. The grade obtained will be N3=0.15PR+0.85F. If N3<5, the same retake system as for continuous assessment will apply.


NOTE: In this course, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies is not permitted at any stage. Any work that includes AI-generated fragments will be considered a breach of academic honesty and may result in a partial or total penalty on the activity grade, or more serious sanctions in cases of severe misconduct.


Bibliography

J. Hefferon, Linear algebra, http://joshua.smcvt.edu/linearalgebra/

M. Masdeu, A. Ruiz, Apunts d'Àlgebra Lineal, https://mat.uab.cat/~albert/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Apunts_d__lgebra_Lineal.pdf

E. Nart X. Xarles, Apunts d'àlgebra lineal, Materials de la UAB, núm. 237, 1a edició. 

D.C. Lay, Álgebra lineal y sus aplicaciones, Pearson Educación, 2016 (ebook) 

Grossman, Stanley I., Álgebra lineal. Mc Graw Hill, 2012, 7a edició. (eBook)

Software

Python

Course groups and languages

The information provided is provisional until November 30. After this date, you will be able to consult the language of each group through this link. To access the information, you will need to enter the course CODE

Type of teaching Group Language Semester Shift
(TE) Theory 1 Catalan second semester afternoon
(PAUL) Classroom practices 1 Catalan second semester afternoon
(PLAB) Practical laboratories 1 Catalan second semester morning-mixed
(PAUL) Classroom practices 2 Catalan second semester afternoon
(PLAB) Practical laboratories 2 Catalan second semester morning-mixed
(PLAB) Practical laboratories 3 Catalan second semester morning-mixed
(PLAB) Practical laboratories 4 Catalan second semester morning-mixed