Introduction to Vector Spaces, Vector Algebras, and Vector Geometries

Abstract

An introductory overview of vector spaces, algebras, and linear geometries over an arbitrary commutative field is given. Quotient spaces are emphasized and used in constructing the exterior and the symmetric algebras of a vector space. Affine geometries are introduced and generalized by projective completion. General projective geometries are briefly introduced. Tensor products and multilinear functions are treated. The exterior algebra of a vector space and that of its dual are used in treating linear geometry and Grassmann's regressive product is treated. Scalar product spaces, orthogonality, and the Hodge star based on a general basis are covered.