Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module MATH4241: REPRESENTATION THEORY IV

Department: Mathematical Sciences

MATH4241: REPRESENTATION THEORY IV

Type Open Level 4 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2024/2025 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Mathematics modules to the value of 100 credits in Years 2 and 3, with at least 40 credits at Level 3 and including Algebra II (MATH2581).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To develop and illustrate representation theory for finite groups and Lie groups.

Content

  • Representations of finite groups.
  • Character theory.
  • Induced representations.
  • Lie groups and Lie algebras and their representations.
  • Representations of SL(2,C), SU(2), SO(3).

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve novel and/or complex problems in Representation Theory.
  • have a systematic and coherent understanding of theoretical mathematics in the field of Representation Theory.
  • have acquired a coherent body of knowledge of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas:
  • Representations of finite groups.
  • Character tables.
  • Induced representations, Frobenius reciprocity.
  • Representations of abelian groups.
  • Lie groups and algebras, exponential map.
  • Examples of representations of Lie groups and algebras.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • In addition students will have highly specialised and advanced mathematical skills in the following areas: Abstract Reasoning.
Key Skills:

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.
  • 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 predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 42 2 in Michaelmas and Epiphany; 2 in Easter. 1 Hour 42
Problems Classes 8 Fortnightly in Michaelmas and Epiphany. 1 Hour 8
Preparation and Reading 150
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
three-hour examination 100%

Formative Assessment:

Eight assignments to be submitted.


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