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MATH3344 Algebraic Topology Honours

Later Year Course

Offered By Department of Mathematics
Academic Career Undergraduate
Course Subject Mathematics
Offered in Second Semester, 2009 and Second Semester, 2010
Unit Value 6 units
Course Description

Algebraic topology studies properties of topological spaces and maps between them by associating algebraic invariants (fundamental groups, homology groups, cohomology groups) to each space. This course gives a solid introduction to fundamental ideas and results that are employed nowadays in most areas of mathematics, theoretical physics and computer science. This course aims to understand some fundamental ideas in algebraic topology; to apply discrete, algebraic methods to solve topological problems; to develop some intuition for how algebraic topology relates to concrete topological problems.

Topics to be covered include:

Fundamental group and covering spaces; Brouwer fixed point theorem and Fundamental theorem of algebra; Homology theory and cohomology theory; Jordan-Brouwer separation theorem, Lefschetz fixed theorem; some additional topics (Orientation, Poincare duality, if time permits)

Honours Pathway Option

This is an HPC. It builds upon the material of MATH3302 and MATH2322 and emphasises mathematical rigour and proof.
Learning Outcomes

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Explain the fundamental concepts of algebraic topology and their role in modern mathematics and applied contexts.
2. Demonstrate accurate and efficient use of algebraic topology techniques.
3. Demonstrate capacity for mathematical reasoning through analyzing, proving and explaining concepts from algebraic topology.
4. Apply problem-solving using algebraic topology techniques applied to diverse situations in physics, engineering and other mathematical contexts.
Indicative Assessment

Assessment will be based on:

  • Assignment 1 (20%: LO 1-4)
  • Assignment 2 (20%; LO 1-4)
  • Assignment 3 (20%; LO 1-4)
  • Presentation (10%; LO 1-4)
  • Take home exam (30%; LO 1-4)
Workload

36 lectures and 10 tutorials.

Areas of Interest Mathematics
Requisite Statement

Requires a mark of 60 or more in both MATH3320 and MATH2322, and basic knowledge of abstract algebra, linear algebra, and point-set topology.

Incompatibility

with MATH3060.

Consent Required Please contact MATHSadmin@maths.anu.edu.au for consent to enrol in this course.
Science Group C
Academic Contact Bryan Wang

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.

Updated:   13 Nov 2015 / Responsible Officer:   The Registrar / Page Contact:   Student Business Solutions