Module MATH4141: GEOMETRY IV

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH4141: GEOMETRY IV

Prerequisites

• Complex Analysis II (MATH2011) AND Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031) AND Algebra II (MATH2581) AND a minimum of 40 credits of Mathematics modules at Level 3.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• Geometry III (MATH3201).

Aims

• To give students a basic grounding in various aspects of plane geometry.
• In particular, to elucidate different types of plane geometries and to show how these may be handled from a group theoretic viewpoint.

Content

• The Euclidean group as group isometries.
• Conjugacy classes and discrete subgroups.
• The affine group.
• Proof that every collineation is affine.
• Ceva and Menelaus.
• Theorems.
• Isometries and affine transformations of R3.
• Rotations in terms of quaternions.
• The Riemann sphere, stereographic projection, and Mobius transformations.
• Inverse geometry.
• Projective transformations.
• Equivalence of various definitions of conics.
• Classification and geometrical properties of conics.
• Models of the hyperbolic plane.
• Hyperbolic transformations.
• Hyperbolic metric in terms of cross-ratio.
• Elementary results in hyperbolic geometry.
• (NB the syllabus is identrical to GEOMETRY III (A) which is taught in parallel).

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module students will: be able to solve complex, unpredictable and specialised problems in Geometry.
• have an understanding of specialised and complex theoretical mathematics in the field of Geometry.
• have mastered a coherent body of knowledge of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Isometries and affine transformations of the plane.
• Spherical geometry.
• Mobius transformations.
• Projective geometry.
• Hyperbolic geometry.

• In addition students will have highly specialised and advanced mathematical skills in the following areas: Spatial awareness.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
• Assignments for self-study develop problem-solving skills and enable students to test and develop their knowledge and understanding.
• Formatively assessed assignments provide practice in the application of logic and high level of rigour as well as feedback for the students and the lecturer on students' progress.
• The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve complex and specialised problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Four written assignments to be assessed and returned. Other assignments are set for self-study and complete solutions are made available to students.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University