Linear algebra is a branch of mathematics that focuses on the study of vectors, vector spaces, and linear transformations. It provides a framework for solving systems of linear equations and is fundamental in various fields, including computer science, engineering, and data science.

At its core, linear algebra deals with structures such as vectors and matrices. Vectors are essentially one-dimensional arrays of numbers that can represent quantities with both magnitude and direction. Matrices, on the other hand, are two-dimensional arrays that can be used to represent and manipulate multiple vectors simultaneously. Operations such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication can be performed on these structures, allowing for complex calculations and transformations ²⁵.

Linear algebra is particularly important in machine learning and data science, as it underpins many algorithms and techniques used for data analysis and modeling ⁵. Understanding linear algebra concepts is crucial for anyone looking to delve into these fields.