Math 150A Class Web Page

Welcome to MATH 150A: Introduction to Modern Algebra.

Algebra is among the central themes of modern mathematics. Among many applications, it captures the theory of symmetries and the nature of numbers. The goal of this course is to learn the basic theory of groups, the most basic algebraic objects.

For some students, this will be the first course that is taught at a high level of mathematical rigor. We will be working with highly abstract concepts. While these ideas have important real world applications, they also have an internal beauty that we will try to bring out. It is important that students taking this course be comfortable with the notion of rigorous proof, as taught in 67, 125A or 108 for example. You will be required to read and write correct and clear arguments, including proofs. The ability to present a proof is one of the most important skills that you can obtain in a mathematics class. It will help you to understand in real life what assumptions are being made and what leaps of intution and logical gaps are often found in solving problems of all types.

We will be using the text

Algebra, 1st ed. (1995 printing), by Michael Artin.
In 150A we will cover material from chapters 2, 5 and 6 as in the syllabus. A knowledge of linear algebra is assumed.

Here is where you will find some more information updated as the course proceeds:

If you like to explore the web, the following links may be of interest.
hass(at)math.ucdavis.edu