The organization and contents of a linear algebra course for chemical engineers are described. The course, which emphasizes both abstraction and application, meets twice a week for two hours and runs largely as a lecture, although active student participation is encouraged by frequent questions from the instructor. (JN)

Discusses the factoring of polynomials and Fibonacci numbers, offering several challenges teachers can give students. For example, they can give students a polynomial containing large numbers and challenge them to factor it. (JN)

Discusses algebraic programing languages, availability of these languages, and programing problems. Also discusses the future of these languages in chemical research and chemical education. A program illustrating the general algebraic and algebraic matrix manipulating capabilities of the REDUCE language is included. (JN)

Proposes that the learning of mathematics requires that the socially developed mathematical form, as well as the concepts it represents, become the property of the individual student. Indicates that the distinction between the form and content of mathematics, together with interrelationships between the two, is of crucial importance to effective…

Presents a problem, modified from a familiar situation, that would be suitable for high school students to investigate. The problem involves the properties of an array known as the odd triangle, which is made up of the odd counting numbers. (JN)

Explores meanings of "generic" and "generality" as they are found both in everyday language and as they confront mathematics students. Considers everyday occurrences of the idea of generic (leading to the notion of a generic example of a class) and some ramifications in elementary algebra. (JN)

Presents an example of mathematics from an algorithmic point of view, with emphasis on the design and verification of this algorithm. The program involves finding roots for algebraic equations using the half-interval search algorithm. The program listing is included. (JN)

Two mathematical topics are interpreted from the viewpoints of traditional (performing algorithms) and contemporary (creating algorithms and thinking in terms of them for solving problems and developing theory) algorithmic mathematics. The two topics are Horner's method for evaluating polynomials and Gauss's method for solving systems of linear…

Discusses a numerical technique called the method of adjoints, turning a linear two-point boundary value problem into an initial value problem. Described are steps for using the method in linear or nonlinear systems. Applies the technique to solve a simple pendulum problem. Lists 15 references. (YP)

Elementary school children who are exposed to a concrete, hands-on experience in algebraic linear equations will more readily develop a positive mind-set and expectation for success in later formal, algebraic studies. (CB)

Explains an application of matrix algebra which involves probability matrices and weather predictions. Using probabilities of sunny or cloudy weather students can determine the effect weather on day one will have on subsequent days. (DH)

Outlines two experiments by which several different mathematical topics can be integrated into the unifying theme of oscillating pendulums, as part of a secondary school Algebra II and Trigonometry class. (CS)

Presents two papers commenting on previous published articles. Discusses formulas related to the determinants of sums and tests the formulas using some examples. Provides three special cases of the determinants of sums. (YP)

The "word problem" is stated for a given collection. Facts regarding Dehn's Algorithm, definition of Thue systems, a rewriting system, lemmas and corollaries are provided. The situation is examined where the monoid presented by a finite Thue system is a group. (DC)

Discusses computer solutions for factoring problems. Includes listing for (1) a program that multiplies two user-chosen factors (X-R times X-S) and allows subsequent multiplications by more linear factors and (2) a program which computes P(X)/(AX plus B), where P(X) is a user-chosen polynomial and AX plus B is a user-chosen divisor. (JN)