Linear Algebra and practical relations

[Dovahkiin]

Im having some trouble finding exact practical relations to other things such as practical uses in chaos theory or astro physics in general. Can anyone tell me how linear algebra is used in chaos theory or other astro sciences?

[Shadow]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linear_algebra#Quantum_mechanics

[studiot]

The essence of Chaos mathematics is that it is non linear, so why would you expect linear algebra to be applicable?

 

Since Linear maths is much much easier than non linear maths most disciplines try to use it for models and to 'linearize' whenever practicable.

I am no expert in astro stuff but I expect they are no different.

 

Incidentally, you have referred to chaos theory as another astro science, please elaborate as this is the first I have heard of this connection.

Edited September 27, 2013 by studiot

[overtone]

Probably, the main entry of linear algebra into astronomy and the like is the fact that the derivatives of any function at a point are linear maps. So if you are taking and using derivatives - and that tends to be a common activity in many fields - you need to be comfortable with linear algebra.

[Dovahkiin]

Thanks everyone.