Spring 2025
MWF 10:00-10:50 Stevenson 320
Algebra is the language of modern mathematics. Its goal is to extract formal structures from the usual arithmetic of the integers, allowing for our most basic mathematical intuitions to be abstractly applied to a wide variety of circumstances. The depth and breadth of abstract algebra is surprising, even to seasoned mathematicians. Indeed, to give a few geometric applications, the study of crystals crucially uses group theory, while an early triumph of field theory was the proof of the impossibility of the trisection of an angle with ruler and compass.
In this class, we will develop the basic theory of the main players in this story: groups, rings, and fields.
Benjamin Bakker
last name uic edu - please put "M330" in subject
OH: M 12-2
The second midterm will cover up through section 11 of Gallian and will become available after class on Friday (4/4), due before class next Wednesday (4/9). As before, you may use the textbook and class notes, but please do not talk to anyone else, or use any other sources (including textbooks, the internet, chatgpt, etc.). I will have office hours on Monday (4/7) as usual.