MAS 4301 - Abstract Algebra 1
Credit hours: 3
Textbook: Joseph A. Gallian, Contemporary Abstract Algebra ,
Seventh Edition, D.C. Heath and Co., .
Prerequisites: grade of B or better in MAS 3300 or in MHF 3202, or
a grade of C or better in MAS 4105
Grading System :
Exams: 2 midterms (20% each) - after Chapters 4 and 9, respectively; 1 final
(40%) - cumulative
Weekly quizzes based upon the homework assignments (20%) - lowest score dropped
A: 90-100, B: 80-89, C: 65-79, D: 50-64, E: 0-49
Minus grades will not be used
in this course. Nonetheless, I must post the following
link .
Office hours: MWF, fifth period (or by appointment)
See Home Page for contact information
(and more).
Brief Course Description
The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the theory and
some of the applications of the field of mathematics called abstract
algebra. This will involve the study of the abstract structures called
groups, rings and fields, which occur throughout mathematics and its modern
application to the natural sciences. It will also involve
the development of the student's ability to recognize these structures in
concrete instances.
Some important examples of applications of abstract algebra are symmetry
groups in physics, chemistry and geometry, on the one hand, and coding theory
in computer science and encryption, on the other, just to indicate briefly the
vast range of uses of abstract algebra. A few of these applications will
be illustrated during the course.
The course also serves as a
continuation of the transition from the lower-division mathematics courses
into a more abstract and structural approach to mathematics, which is, in
fact, the real source of the power and utility of modern mathematics and
distinguishes it from the mathematics of previous centuries.
The student will be expected to (continue to) develop the ability
to reason through, and coherently and correctly write, proofs of theorems,
as well as to develop relevant computational skills. An emphasis will be
placed upon clarity of thought and expression.
This course will cover Chapters 1-15 of the above-mentioned textbook,
if possible. If there is time remaining, we shall push further into the text.
Current Assignment ( dvi-file )
( ps-file ) ( pdf-file
) - This assignment is due on Wednesday, April 20, 2011.
We are currently covering Chapter 13 of the text.
The course meets fourth period, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, in Little 125.
Previous Homework Assignments
Assignment 1: ( dvi-file )
( ps-file ) ( pdf-file )
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My policy on class attendance
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My policy on make-up work
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University policy on the accomodation for disabled students
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Be sure to see:
A brief History of the abstract concept of groups.
A brief History of the development of group theory.
A brief History of symmetry in chemistry, physics and mathematics, complete
with additional links.
HERE is the site "Mathematician of the Day" - a site containing
history and biographies of mathematical scientists.
The Archives of
the American Mathematical Society and the Society of Industrial and Applied
Mathematicians, containing profiles of mathematicians in
nonacademic positions, including what they actually do and what they needed
to know in order to do it.
Last updated on April 29, 2011