2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

MATH3195 Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry

15 creditsClass Size: 50

Module manager: Emine Yıldırım
Email: E.YildirimKaygun@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

Pre-requisite qualifications

MATH2025 or MATH2026 or MATH2027, or equivalent.

This module is mutually exclusive with

MATH3193	Algebras and Representations
MATH5195M	Advanced Commutative Rings and Algebraic Geometry
MATH5253M	Commutative Algebra and Algebraic Geometry

Module replaces

MATH3193

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

Algebraic geometry is the study of the solution sets of polynomial equations, just as linear algebra is the study of the solution sets of linear equations. Polynomial equations in several variables are fundamental in both pure and applied mathematics since they allow us to describe many shapes, such as circles, ellipses and parabolas. Examples include the trajectory of an object moving under gravity and the points that can be reached by a robot arm.Sets of solutions of polynomial equations, known as affine varieties, have beautiful properties. The role of polynomials in their description means that they can be studied via commutative rings, such as polynomial rings. There is thus a rich interplay between the geometry of varieties and the algebraic properties of commutative rings. The module will introduce the basic ideas of algebraic geometry via commutative rings, with an emphasis on concrete examples and explicit calculations.

Objectives

To give an introduction to the theory of algebraic geometry via affine algebraic varieties.
To give an introduction to the theory and properties of the commutative rings which arise in the description of algebraic varieties.
To illustrate how commutative rings can be used to study algebraic varieties, and how the properties of each are interrelated.
In particular, to study the primary decomposition of ideals and the irreducible components of varieties and how these are related.
To focus on the use of interesting examples to illustrate ideas in the theory.
To develop the skills of rigorous logical argument and problem-solving in the context of commutative rings, algebraic geometry and their interaction.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:

(a) Define and use key concepts in commutative rings and algebraic geometry;
(b) State and prove basic results in commutative rings and algebraic geometry;
(c) Solve simple problems concerning varieties;
(d) Understand the relationship between ideals and varieties.

Syllabus

Revision of rings and polynomials
Commutative rings and ideals
Varieties and an algebra-geometry dictionary
Noetherian rings and modules
Decomposition of ideals and irreducible components of varieties
Brief discussion of application(s), e.g. geometric description of the points that can be reached by a robot arm.
Optional topic: Groebner basis

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	33	1.00	33.00
Private study hours			117.00
Total Contact hours			33.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Private study

Study and revision of course material.

Completion of assignments and assessments.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Regular problem sheets

Methods of assessment

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)	2 hr 30 mins	100.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 18/08/2023

Disclaimer

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