21-373 Algebraic Structures - Fall 2020 MWF 1:20PM-2:10PM ZOOM invitation via Canvas

Instructor: Rami Grossberg
Office: WEH 7204
Phone: x8482 (268-8482 from external lines), messages at x2545
Email: Rami@cmu.edu
URL: www.math.cmu.edu/~rami
Office Hours: Immediately after every lecture in class or by appointment.

Purpose. I found the following excellent discription of what is Algebra on a web page of Texas A&M University: Algebra is one of fundamental disciplines of mathematics and an algebraic way of thinking is pervasive in much of mathematics. Many mathematical and physical phenomenon can be described by one of the many algebraic structures, such as groups, rings, fields, modules and vectorspaces. Applications are numerous and include computer graphics (as an application of algebraic geometry) and coding/cryptography (as an application of number theory).

The goal of this course is to introduce the basic concepts and facts of modern algebra. This should prepare the student to be able to manipulate and understand fairly abstract concepts, and provide the necessary background for a large number of courses in algebra and applications. We will present some of the most useful ideas of algebra, which are of great importance in a large number of subjects within mathematics and outside.

Course description. We will concentrate in the basic properties of groups, and rings. We will cover most of chapters 1-9 (the first half of the book). We will concentrate on chapters 3,4,8 and 9.

Assignments. A list will be posted on a weekly basis. The HW will be collected in class once a week on Fridays and will be graded. The homework is an important part of the learning process; you are strongly advised to try all of the assigned problems; in case of difficulties you should consult me.

Text: "Abstract Algebra" by D. S. Dummit & R. M. Foote. current edition Published by John Wiley & Sons. price comparison.

Test Dates: Will be announced.

Evaluation: There will be two one hour tests (in class), weekly homework assignments, and a three hour final. These will be weighted as follows:

The standards of academic honesty as stated in the Student Handbook will be strictly enforced.

Prerequisites. Ability to read and write proofs and little linear algebra.



Accommodations for Students with Disabilities: If you have a disability and are registered with the Office of Disability Resources, I encourage you to use their online system to notify me of your accommodations and discuss your needs with me as early in the semester as possible. I will work with you to ensure that accommodations are provided as appropriate. If you suspect that you may have a disability and would benefit from accommodations but are not yet registered with the Office of Disability Resources, I encourage you to contact them at access@andrew.cmu.edu. Statement of Support for Students’ Health & Well-being Take care of yourself. Do your best to maintain a healthy lifestyle this semester by eating well, exercising, avoiding drugs and alcohol, getting enough sleep and taking some time to relax. This will help you achieve your goals and cope with stress. If you or anyone you know experiences any academic stress, difficult life events, or feelings like anxiety or depression, we strongly encourage you to seek support. Counseling and Psychological Services (CaPS) is here to help: call 412-268-2922 and visit http://www.cmu.edu/counseling/. Consider reaching out to a friend, faculty or family member you trust for help getting connected to the support that can help. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal or in danger of self-harm, call someone immediately, day or night: CaPS: 412-268-2922 Re:solve Crisis Network: 888-796-8226 If the situation is life threatening, call the police On campus: CMU Police: 412-268-2323 Off campus: 911 If you have questions about this or your coursework, please let me know. Thank you, and have a great semester. Rami's home page.
Last modified: September 2 nd, 2020