MATH 383 - Seminar

Credits: 3 in fall and winter, 4 in spring

Varies with topic. For Winter 2016, Prerequisite: MATH 321. Readings and conferences for a student or students on topics agreed upon with the directing staff. May be repeated for degree credit if the topics are different.

Winter 2016, MATH 383-01: Seminar: Geometry of Groups (3). Prerequisite: MATH 321. This seminar introduces the subject of geometric group theory. We study groups as geometric objects, focusing on examples, beginning with Cayley graphs and Cayley complexes, group actions, and the word problem in group theory. Further topics may include random walks, growth of groups, hyperbolic geometry, isoperimetric inequalities, and others depending on the interests of the participants. Examples we encounter include free groups, braid groups, Heisenberg groups, right-angled Artin groups, lamplighter groups, Baumslag-Solitar groups, and more. Feldman.

Note: Note: Seminar and research offerings are contingent upon the demonstrated need and aptitude of the student for independent work in mathematics and upon the availability of departmental resources. Planned Offering: Offered when interest is expressed and department resources permit.