Fall 2019

Galois Theory

Listed in: Mathematics and Statistics, as MATH-410

Faculty

Robert L. Benedetto (Section 01)

Description

The quadratic formula shows us that the roots of a quadratic polynomial possess a certain symmetry. Galois Theory is the study of the corresponding symmetry for higher degree polynomials. We will develop this theory starting from a basic knowledge of groups, rings, and fields. One of our main goals will be to prove that there is no general version of the quadratic formula for a polynomial of degree five or more. Along the way, we will also show that a circular cake can be divided into 17 (but not 7) equal slices using only a straight-edged knife.

Requisite: MATH 350 or consent of the instructor. Fall semester. Professor R. Benedetto.

MATH 410 - LEC

Section 01
M 01:00 PM - 01:50 PM SMUD 006
W 01:00 PM - 01:50 PM SMUD 006
F 01:00 PM - 01:50 PM SMUD 006

MATH 410 - DIS

Section 01
Tu 01:00 PM - 01:50 PM SMUD 006

This is preliminary information about books for this course. Please contact your instructor or the Academic Coordinator for the department, before attempting to purchase these books.

ISBN Title Publisher Author(s) Comment Book Store Price
Galois Theory (2nd Edition) Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, 2012 Cox, David A. Amherst Books TBD

These books are available locally at Amherst Books.

Offerings

2024-25: Not offered
Other years: Offered in Fall 2013, Spring 2016, Fall 2018, Fall 2019