Math 481: Complex Analysis 2007

Fundamentals of Complex Analysis, Saff and Snider, Chapters 1-4, 6-7

Dr. Roland Minton, Trexler 270-G, 375-2358, office hours 2-3M, 10-11T, 3-4W, 7-9Th

minton@roanoke.edu www.roanoke.edu/staff/minton/ccourse.html

Course Objectives: To continue to learn mathematics. To become better problem solvers. To understand and appreciate the beauty of mathematics. One of the oddities of undergraduate mathematics is the seemingly random manner in which complex numbers are declared to either “not count” or to be essential to the problem being solved. In the process of learning the basics of complex analysis, we will learn the “why” behind many of these choices. Unlike real analysis, this is not primarily a proofs course. However, like any upper-level mathematics course, the underlying theory is critical to understanding the material, and proofs are important.

Attendance Policy: Regular attendance is essential. You are responsible for everything done in class, through your attendance and sharing class notes with classmates. If you miss a class, e-mail me before class is over and find out what you missed.

Equipment: We will use the TI-89 calculator and Mathematica in class, on homework assignments and on tests.

Academic Integrity: The college policy is fully supported. Tests are closed notes, closed book. Homework is to be your own work, and not copied from someone else. No electronic devices other than calculators are allowed in a test situation.

Homework: Problems from each section of the book will be assigned, chosen from in-chapter exercises and computer explorations. Additional problems for study will be listed. Assignments will be posted on the course web site and stated at the end of class. Unless otherwise stated, your work on these problems is due at the beginning of the next class.

Co-Curricular: During the course of the semester, you must attend at least three approved co-curricular events offered by the math department. For each, write a one- or two-paragraph description of the event, focusing on at least one aspect of the talk that you found interesting. Each one will count as a homework grade.

Tests: There will be three tests and a final exam. Each test will cover all material discussed since the previous test. Anticipated test dates are (W) 2/5, (F) 3/2 and (W) 4/4. The exam is Friday, April 27, 2:00-5:00.

Make-ups: In case of sickness or scheduling conflicts, get in touch with me ASAP.

Grading: The homework counts as one test, the exam counts one test, each test counts 20% of the final average. Grades may be curved up based on participation, one unusually low test score or other extenuating circumstance.

A: 93-100 A-: 90-92 B+: 87-89 B : 83-86 B-: 80-82 C+: 77-79 C: 73-76 C-: 70-72

D+: 67-69 D: 63-67 D-: 60-62 F: 59 and below