# Definitely $\sim$ Positively the Pits

by Cliff Long (Bowling Green State University)

This article originally appeared in:
Mathematics Magazine
February, 1990

Subject classification(s): Algebra and Number Theory | Linear Algebra | Analysis | Numerical Analysis | Numerical Differentiation
Applicable Course(s): 3.3 Mainstream Calculus III, IV | 3.8 Linear/Matrix Algebra | 4.13 Advanced Linear Algebra

The author classifies the quadratic forms defined by simple 2 by 2 matrices and illustrates them with corresponding quadratic surfaces.

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Capsule Course Topic(s):
Linear Algebra | Geometry
Linear Algebra | Quadratic Forms
Multivariable Calculus | Conic Sections & Quadric Surfaces