Linear Geometry with Computer Graphics

Stressing the interplay between theory and its practice, this text presents the construction of linear models that satisfy geometric postulate systems and develops geometric topics in computer graphics. It includes a computer graphics utility library of specialized subroutines on a 3.5" disk, designed for use with Turbo PASCAL 4.0 (or later version) - an effective means of computer-aided instruction for writing graphics problems. Providing instructors with maximum flexibility that allows for the mathematics or computer graphics sections to be taught independently, this book: reviews linear algebra and notation, focusing on ideas of geometric significance that are often omitted in general purpose linear algebra courses; develops symmetric bilinear forms through classical results, including the inertia theorem, Witt's cancellation theorem and the unitary diagonalization of symmetric matrices; examines the Klein Erlanger programm, constructing models of geometries, and studying associated transformation groups; clarifies how to construct geometries from groups, encompassing topological notions; and introduces topics in computer graphics, including geometric modeling, surface rendering and transformation groups.