MATH 113 - The Beauty of Numbers

Institution:

Williams College

Subject:

Mathematics

Description:

Have you ever wondered what keeps your credit card information safe everytime you buy something online? Number theory! Number Theory is one of the oldest branches of mathematics. In this course, we will discover the beauty and usefulness of numbers, from ancient Greece to modern cryptography. We will look for patterns, make conjectures, and learn how to prove these conjectures. Starting with nothing more than basic high school algebra, we will develop the logic and critical thinking skills required to realize and prove mathematical results. Topics to be covered include the meaning and content of proof, prime numbers, divisibility, rationality, modular arithmetic, Fermat's Last Theorem, the Golden ratio, Fibonacci numbers, coding theory, and unique factorization.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Mathematics 100/101/102 (or demonstrated proficiency on a diagnostic test) or permission of instructor

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.williams.edu

Phone Number:

(413) 597-3131

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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