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.

Keywords

Quantitative Reasoning

Offerings

2022-23: Not offered
Other years: Offered in Fall 2013, Spring 2016, Fall 2018, Fall 2019