Syllabus

Assignments

Handouts

Examinations

Links

MATH S-152 The Mathematics of Symmetry

Thomas W. Judson
PhD
Preceptor in Mathematics
Harvard University
 

Location: Science Center 109

Meeting time: T,Th 3:30-6 pm

CRN: 31731

 

An introduction to finite groups, finite fields, finite geometry, discrete probability, and graph theory. A unifying theme of the course is the symmetry group of the regular icosahedron, whose elements can be realized as permutations, as linear transformations of vector spaces over finite fields, as collineations of a finite plane, or as vertices of a graph. Taught in a seminar format, students gain experience in presenting proofs at the blackboard. Students have the opportunity to implement some of the key mathematical ideas of the course in C++, but computer work is optional. Prerequisites: Elementary knowledge of vectors, 2x2 matrices, and determinants. MATH S-21b, taken previously or concurrently, would be ideal. Calculus is not required. Placement test recommended.