Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Explicit Composition Identities For Higher Composition Laws In The Quadratic Case, Ajith A. Nair

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

The theory of Gauss composition of integer binary quadratic forms provides a very useful way to compute the structure of ideal class groups in quadratic number fields. In addition to that, Gauss composition is also important in the problem of representations of integers by binary quadratic forms. In 2001, Bhargava discovered a new approach to Gauss composition which uses 2x2x2 integer cubes, and he proved a composition law for such cubes. Furthermore, from the higher composition law on cubes, he derived four new higher composition laws on the following spaces - 1) binary cubic forms, 2) pairs of binary quadratic …

Math 115: College Algebra For Pre-Calculus, Seth Lehman

Open Educational Resources

OER course syllabus for Math 115, College Algebra, at Queens College

Pairings In A Ring Spectrum-Based Bousfield-Kan Spectral Sequence, Jonathan Toledo

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Bousfield and Kan traditionally formulated their homotopy spectral sequence over a simplicial set X resolved with respect to a ring R. By considering an adequate category of ring spectra, one can take a ring spectrum E, create from it a functor of a triple on the category of simplicial sets, and build a cosimplicial simplicial set EX. The homotopy spectral sequence can then be formed over such cosimplicial spaces by a similar construction to the original. Pairings can be established on these spectral sequences, and, for nice enough spaces, these pairings on the E₂-terms coincide with certain …

Quantifying Separability In Limit Groups, Keino Brown

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

We show that for any finitely generated non-abelian subgroup H of a limit group L, there exists a finite-index subgroup K which is fully residually H. This generalizes the result of Wilton that limit groups admit local retractions. We also show that for any finitely generated subgroup of a limit group, there is a finite-dimensional representation of the limit group which separates the subgroup in the induced Zariski topology. As a corollary, we establish a polynomial upper bound on the size of the quotients used to separate a finitely generated subgroup in a limit group. This generalizes results of Louder, …

Mth 125 - Modeling With Exponential Functions, Stivi Manoku

Open Educational Resources

The file includes a variety of problems that emphasize the importance of modeling exponential growth and/or radioactive decay. Through different exercises and problems, the assignment goal is to improve their comprehension of exponential functions and hone their problem-solving abilities.

Mth 50 Syllabus, Koby Kohulan

Open Educational Resources

No abstract provided.

A Stronger Strong Schottky Lemma For Euclidean Buildings, Michael E. Ferguson

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

We provide a criterion for two hyperbolic isometries of a Euclidean building to generate a free group of rank two. In particular, we extend the application of a Strong Schottky Lemma to buildings given by Alperin, Farb and Noskov. We then use this extension to obtain an infinite family of matrices that generate a free group of rank two. In doing so, we also introduce an algorithm that terminates in finite time if the lemma is applicable for pairs of certain kinds of matrices acting on the Euclidean building for the special linear group over certain discretely valued fields.

Math 301: Abstract Algebra I, Nicholas Vlamis

Open Educational Resources

No abstract provided.

The Zariski-Riemann Space As A Universal Model For The Birational Geometry Of A Function Field, Giovan Battista Pignatti Morano Di Custoza

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Given a function field $K$ over an algebraically closed field $k$, we propose to use the Zariski-Riemann space $\ZR (K/k)$ of valuation rings as a universal model that governs the birational geometry of the field extension $K/k$. More specifically, we find an exact correspondence between ad-hoc collections of open subsets of $\ZR (K/k)$ ordered by quasi-refinements and the category of normal models of $K/k$ with morphisms the birational maps. We then introduce suitable Grothendieck topologies and we develop a sheaf theory on $\ZR (K/k)$ which induces, locally at once, the sheaf theory of each normal model. Conversely, given a sheaf …

Prime Factors: America’S Prioritization Of Literacy Over Numeracy And Its Relationship To Systemic Inequity, Troy Smith

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

For much of American history, literacy has been prioritized in K-12 education and society, at large, at the expense of numeracy. This lack of numerical emphasis has established innumeracy as an American cultural norm that has resulted in America not producing a sufficient number of numerate citizens, and ranking poorly on mathematical performance in international comparisons. This paper investigates the decisions and circumstances that led to this under prioritization, along with the public and cultural impact of said actions. Toward this end, literature regarding contemporary and historical influences on American mathematics education (e.g., civic, policy, and parental) was reviewed. The …

College Algebra Through Problem Solving (2021 Edition), Danielle Cifone, Karan Puri, Debra Maslanko, Ewa Stelmach

Open Educational Resources

This is a self-contained, open educational resource (OER) textbook for college algebra. Students can use the book to learn concepts and work in the book themselves. Instructors can adapt the book for use in any college algebra course to facilitate active learning through problem solving. Additional resources such as classroom assessments and online/printable homework is available from the authors.

Factoring: Difference Of Squares, Thomas Lauria

Open Educational Resources

This lesson plan will explain how to factor basic difference of squares problems

Some Model Theory Of Free Groups, Christopher James Natoli

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

There are two main sets of results, both pertaining to the model theory of free groups. In the first set of results, we prove that non-abelian free groups of finite rank at least 3 or of countable rank are not A-homogeneous. We then build on the proof of this result to show that two classes of groups, namely finitely generated free groups and finitely generated elementary free groups, fail to form A-Fraisse classes and that the class of non-abelian limit groups fails to form a strong A-Fraisse class.

The second main result is that if a countable group is elementarily …

Interdisciplinary Thinking: Financial Literacy Crosses Disciplinary Boundaries, Marla A. Sole

Publications and Research

Financial literacy is ideally suited to be integrated into mathematics courses and taught in an interdisciplinary manner. Students learn best and are motivated when tackling real-world meaningful questions. This article shares how elementary mathematics was applied to better understand the debate about raising the minimum wage and the United States National Debt. To serve as a guide for other teachers who wish to incorporate financial literacy into their mathematics courses and take an interdisciplinary approach, this article suggests readings, data sets, and pedagogical practices. Students were engaged and enthusiastic to work on problems that challenged their thinking about financial issues.

Spectral Sequences For Almost Complex Manifolds, Qian Chen

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

In recent work, two new cohomologies were introduced for almost complex manifolds: the so-called J-cohomology and N-cohomology [CKT17]. For the case of integrable (complex) structures, the former cohomology was already considered in [DGMS75], and the latter agrees with de Rham cohomology. In this dissertation, using ideas from [CW18], we introduce spectral sequences for these two cohomologies, showing the two cohomologies have natural bigradings. We show the spectral sequence for the J-cohomology converges at the second page whenever the almost complex structure is integrable, and explain how both fit in a natural diagram involving Bott-Chern cohomology and the Frolicher spectral sequence. …

Model Theory Of Groups And Monoids, Laura M. Lopez Cruz

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

We first show that arithmetic is bi-interpretable (with parameters) with the free monoid and with partially commutative monoids with trivial center. This bi-interpretability implies that these monoids have the QFA property and that finitely generated submonoids of these monoids are definable. Moreover, we show that any recursively enumerable language in a finite alphabet X with two or more generators is definable in the free monoid. We also show that for metabelian Baumslag-Solitar groups and for a family of metabelian restricted wreath products, the Diophantine Problem is decidable. That is, we provide an algorithm that decides whether or not a given …

The Distribution Of The Greatest Common Divisor Of Elements In Quadratic Integer Rings, Asimina S. Hamakiotes

Student Theses and Dissertations

For a pair of quadratic integers n and m chosen randomly, uniformly, and independently from the set of quadratic integers of norm x or less, we calculate the probability that the greatest common divisor of (n,m) is k. We also calculate the expected norm of the greatest common divisor (n,m) as x tends to infinity, with explicit error terms. We determine the probability and expected norm of the greatest common divisor for quadratic integer rings that are unique factorization domains. We also outline a method to determine the probability and expected norm of the greatest …

An Invitation To Linear Algebra (2nd Edition), David N. Pham, Jonathon Funk, Wenjian Liu

Open Educational Resources

This is an OER textbook on linear algebra.

A Concise Workbook For College Algebra 2nd Edition, Fei Ye

Open Educational Resources

This is the second edition of the book "A Concise Workbook for College Algebra". In this new edition, some tips and notes, more exercises and examples were added.

Zeta Functions Of Classical Groups And Class Two Nilpotent Groups, Fikreab Solomon Admasu

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

This thesis is concerned with zeta functions and generating series associated with two families of groups that are intimately connected with each other: classical groups and class two nilpotent groups. Indeed, the zeta functions of classical groups count some special subgroups in class two nilpotent groups.

In the first chapter, we provide new expressions for the zeta functions of symplectic groups and even orthogonal groups in terms of the cotype zeta function of the integer lattice. In his paper on universal $p$-adic zeta functions, J. Igusa computed explicit formulae for the zeta functions of classical algebraic groups. These zeta functions …

Analysis Of A Group Of Automorphisms Of A Free Group As A Platform For Conjugacy-Based Group Cryptography, Pavel Shostak

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

Let F be a finitely generated free group and Aut(F) its group of automorphisms.

In this monograph we discuss potential uses of Aut(F) in group-based cryptography.

Our main focus is on using Aut(F) as a platform group for the Anshel-Anshel-Goldfeld protocol, Ko-Lee protocol, and other protocols based on different versions of the conjugacy search problem or decomposition problem, such as Shpilrain-Ushakov protocol.

We attack the Anshel-Anshel-Goldfeld and Ko-Lee protocols by adapting the existing types of the length-based attack to the specifics of Aut(F). We also present our own version of the length-based attack that significantly increases the attack' success …

Understanding The Impact Of Peer-Led Workshops On Student Learning, Afolabi Ibitoye, Nadia Kennedy, Armando Cosme

Publications and Research

As students we often wonder why some subjects are easy to understand and requires not much effort in terms of re-reading the material, for us to grasp what it entails. One subject seems to remain elusive and uneasy for a vast majority of learners at all levels of education; that subject is Mathematics, it is one subject that most learners finds difficult even after doubling the amount of time spent on studying the material. My intention is to explore ways to make Mathematics easier for other students using feedback from students enrolled in NSF mathematics peer leading workshops, and use …

On The Complexity Of Computing Galois Groups Of Differential Equations, Mengxiao Sun

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

The differential Galois group is an analogue for a linear differential equation of the classical Galois group for a polynomial equation. An important application of the differential Galois group is that a linear differential equation can be solved by integrals, exponentials and algebraic functions if and only if the connected component of its differential Galois group is solvable. Computing the differential Galois groups would help us determine the existence of the solutions expressed in terms of elementary functions (integrals, exponentials and algebraic functions) and understand the algebraic relations among the solutions.

Hrushovski first proposed an algorithm for computing the differential …

A Differential Algebra Approach To Commuting Polynomial Vector Fields And To Parameter Identifiability In Ode Models, Peter Thompson

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

In the first part, we study the problem of characterizing polynomial vector fields that commute with a given polynomial vector field. One motivating factor is that we can write down solution formulas for an ODE that corresponds to a planar vector field that possesses a linearly independent commuting vector field. This problem is also central to the question of linearizability of vector fields. We first show that a linear vector field admits a full complement of commuting vector fields. Then we study a type of planar vector field for which there exists an upper bound on the degree of a …

An Invitation To Linear Algebra, David N. Pham, Jonathon Funk, Wenjian Liu

Open Educational Resources

This is an OER textbook on linear algebra.

Galois Groups Of Differential Equations And Representing Algebraic Sets, Eli Amzallag

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

The algebraic framework for capturing properties of solution sets of differential equations was formally introduced by Ritt and Kolchin. As a parallel to the classical Galois groups of polynomial equations, they devised the notion of a differential Galois group for a linear differential equation. Just as solvability of a polynomial equation by radicals is linked to the equation’s Galois group, so too is the ability to express the solution to a linear differential equation in "closed form" linked to the equation’s differential Galois group. It is thus useful even outside of mathematics to be able to compute and represent these …

College Algebra Through Problem Solving (2018 Edition), Danielle Cifone, Karan Puri, Debra Maslanko, Ewa Dabkowska

Open Educational Resources

This is a self-contained, open educational resource (OER) textbook for college algebra. Students can use the book to learn concepts and work in the book themselves. Instructors can adapt the book for use in any college algebra course to facilitate active learning through problem solving. Additional resources such as classroom assessments and online/printable homework is available from the authors.

College Algebra Through Problem Solving (2018 Edition), Danielle Cifone, Karan Puri, Debra Masklanko, Ewa Dabkowska

Open Educational Resources

This is a self-contained, open educational resource (OER) textbook for college algebra. Students can use the book to learn concepts and work in the book themselves. Instructors can adapt the book for use in any college algebra course to facilitate active learning through problem solving. Additional resources such as classroom assessments and online/printable homework is available from the authors.

Inquiry Into Saving [Mathematics], Jeanne Funk

Open Educational Resources

‘Inquiry Into Saving’ is an assignment originally designed for MAT117, which is a course for students who have been placed in basic skills mathematics and who can apply a college level course in Algebra and Trigonometry to their program. These students should, ideally, be early in their LaGuardia career, though that is frequently not the case. All, however, are novices of mathematics. The assignment was vetted and revised based on feedback from the Inquiry and Problem Solving in STEM CTL seminar and a charrette not affiliated with the seminar. Revisions addressed connections to the Inquiry and Problem Solving/Written competency/ability pair, …

World Population Dynamics: Modeling Involving Polynomial Functions [Mathematics], Mangala Kothari

Open Educational Resources

In this Inquiry and Problem Solving Assignment students are expected to reflect on their analysis and compare their results with the actual population by conducting their own elementary level research such as searching databases, gathering information and interpreting. Students are expected to comment on the scope of the mathematical model and connect their learning in context to the real-world problem. The assignment includes open-ended questions such as: Write a paragraph about the dynamics of population for the world. What could be some of the possible parameters that contribute to the change in population size? Reflect on what you learned by …