Math 422: Introduction to Complex Analysis

Spring 2008, CRN 34728, Bueler

REVISED SYLLABUS 4/28/08

Instructor: Ed Bueler
Chapman 301C  (hours online)
474-7693   ffelb@uaf.edu
www.dms.uaf.edu/~bueler
 Time & Place:
     MWF   9:15am-10:15am  Duckering 354
Text: Brown and Churchill, Complex Variables and Applications, 7th ed.

This course is a careful introduction to calculus (analysis) using complex numbers and functions of a single complex variable.  Complex analysis (of a single variable) is worth doing carefully--"rigorously"--not  because it is hard or a "mine field".  Rather, calculations work beautifully, sometimes very easily.  But it is worth understanding why it works so well, otherwise one doesn't know when to apply it.  It will enhance your understanding of calculus of real functions of one or two variables, of differential equations and applied mathematics, and of real analysis and its history.

Lectures and homework together are the core of the class.  You are expected to ask questions in class about recent lectures or homework assignments.

Reasonably formal proofs will be expected, though it is understood that some students have not taken a course in methods of proof like Math 215.  I will address this aspect of the class early and deliberately, so as to help with your proof skills and to make clear my expectations.

The grade:  Your grade will be determined by three exams (60%) and homework (40%):
15 %
15 %
30 %
40 %
 Midterm Exam I
Midterm Exam II
Final Exam; In Class Take Home
Homework
 Friday, 29 February (one hour in class)
Friday, 4 April (one hour in class)
Friday, 9 May, 8-10am 5pm in my box or at my office
    
The course grade will be determined by points on the exams and quizzes, according to the schedule at right  --->

The schedule represents a guarantee.  Note I will use plus/minus grades as illustrated. 		Percent 
93 - 100 % 
90 - 92 % 
87 - 89 % 
82 - 86 % 
77 - 81 % 
74 - 76 % 
69 - 73 % 
66 - 68 % 
63 - 65 % 
56 - 62 % 
53 - 55 % 
0 - 52 % 
Grade
 A
 A-
 B+
 B
 B-
 C+
 C
 C-
 D+
 D
 D-
 F

Prerequisites:    Math 302 (ordinary) Differential Equations is the only prerequisite.  Math 302 requires Math 201 and 202 (Calculus II and III); these are the most important prerequisites to Math 422.
    Math 421 is not (at all) a prerequisite for Math 422.  Both courses improve a student's understanding of applied mathematics.  Each will inevitably increase the understanding of the other, but it is not clear if there is a natural order in which to take them.

Policies and makeup exams:   The department has specific policies on incompletes, late withdrawals, and early final examinations, etc; see  ( www.dms.uaf.edu/dms/Policies.html).  You are covered by the UAF Honor Code.  I will work with the Office of Disabilities Services (203 WHIT, 474-7043) to provide reasonable accommodation to student with disabilities.
    I will create makeup versions of exams provided I have a convincing reason to do so at least two class days before the exam, and the makeup must occur no later than two class days after the exam date.