47 karma · joined August 19, 2009
There is more to 2-forms. Also, to be precise, they are functions from a vector space to the scalar field (usually reals). Sure, they form a (dual) vector space but I think it would be more confusing to call GA elements k-forms.
By the way, usually we use "complexity theory" for a part of theoretical computer science (math) concerned with proving lower bounds (like the most famous P vs. NP). What is required for basic analysis of algorithms (without any fancy methods) is not very hard. Yes, you can search the web like we all do, but first you need to know what are you searching for. Also, we reuse algorithms/data structures but not only in the final product but also in our own new algorightms so you cannot search it.
Regarding interviews, I think the main problem is that many companies and interviewers try to blindly copy the questions (cargo cult) without understanding the point of such interviews. The point IMO is that you evaluate analytic skills of a candidate. Correct/incorrect answer is not everything. You could do the same with math, science problems but algorithms/data structures are closer to programming. Anyway, I feel this is becoming a controversial topic.
Depending who I talk to, I use "programmer" or "software engineer" most often.
* Mathematics isn't only about calculation and applied physics. When you write a simple algorithm and convince yourself with a logical argument about its correctness, time complexity, etc. that is math too. You also do calculations when you design various systems (latency, throughput, etc.)
* I know a dozen mechanical, structural, and electrical engineers. They almost never model anything from first mathematical principles, they use well known tools and methods they learned. Their "nail guns and glue". Actually I think most of them don't understand math/physics behind it very deeply. So even if those methods are underpinned with mathematics and physics, it's abstracted away most of the time which is good for practical purposes.
Even in "user-interface programming", I often had to use math, algorithms, etc. In other parts of software engineering I used it much more.
your thoughts never reference me
i should be marked-and-swept
but there is nobody to collect me
i am a soul leak