- Description:
- Algebra is a subject with extremely concrete origins: it is the language of the everyday manipulation of symbols, and the solution of equations. It is the language of computation in coordinates, of differential operators, and of symmetries. At the same time, it can be quite abstract; modern algebra is also the language of relations between objects, sometimes divorced from the objects themselves. This course is the second part of the graduate core algebra sequence. Its aim is to introduce the algebraic concepts which are common knowledge for the working mathematician, and to make the link between the abstract definitions and their concrete incarnations.
- Prerequisites:
- MATH893* or equivalent.
- Instructor:
- Gregory G. Smith (512 Jeffery Hall, 533-2438, ggsmith@mast.queensu.ca)
- Lectures:
Tuesday, 13:00-14:30 in 319 Jeffery Hall
Thursday, 12:00-13:30 in 319 Jeffery Hall
- Office Hours:
Tuesday, 14:30-15:30 in 201 Jeffery hall
Wednesday, 15:30-16:30 in 201 Jeffery Hall
- References:
- [DF]
- David S. Dummit and Richard M. Foote, Abstract Algebra, Third Edition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 2004, ISBN 978-0-471-43334-7
- [L]
- Serge Lang, Algebra, Revised Third Edition, Graduate Texts in Mathematics 211, Springer, 2002, ISBN 978-0-387-95385-4
- Assessment:
- The course grade will be computed as follows:
- 40% Homework
- 30% "In-class" Exam
- 30% "Take-home" Exam
- Exam:
- The final exam will on Tuesday, 24 April 2012 from 09:00-12:00 in 312 Jeff.
- Homework:
- Problem sets are posted in PDF on the lectures webpage. Your browser can be trained to open these files with the free program Acrobat Reader (or other PDF viewer). Problem sets will be collected at the beginning of class on Thursday; late homework will not be accepted. Your best ten problem sets will determine your homework grade. Graded homework can be picked up in the Math 894 boxes outside of 201 Jeffery Hall.
- Written work:
- We write to communicate. Please bear this in mind as you complete assignments and exams. Work must be neat and legible to receive consideration. You must explain your work in order to obtain full credit; an assertion is not an answer.
- Technology:
- Students are strongly encouraged to use all available technology on the homework, but no technical aids will be allowed on the exam.
- Disabilities:
- Students with disabilities, who will be taking this course and may need disability-related accommodations, are encouraged to make an appointment to see the instructor as soon as possible. Also, please contact the Disability Services to register for support services.
- Academic intergrity:
- It is the obligation of each student to understand the University's policies regarding academic intergrity and to uphold these standards. Students are encouraged to talk about the problems but should write up the solutions individually. Students should acknowledge the assistance of any books, software, students, or professors.