History of Mathematics (MAT240)
The subject is an introduction to the development of mathematical ideas and methods throughout human history.
Course description for study year 2025-2026. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
MAT240
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
Norwegian
Admission requirements
Science and mathematics qualification (REALFA) / Higher engineering education (HING)
Content
The historical development of central notions within number theory, algebra, geometry and analysis; notation, computational techniques and axiomatic systems.
A wide selection historical sources and persons, such as early number notation and calculations from Mesopotamia and Egypt; Greek geometry and number theory as described in Euclid's Elements, Ptolemeios' Almagest, Diophantus Arithmetica etc.; Indian (Brahmagupta), Chinese ("Nine chapters") and Arabic (al-Khwarizmi) sources. Furthermore, European developments from the Renaissance and beyond with central works and persons such as Cardano (Ars Magna), Descartes (La Géometrie), Fermat, Newton and Leibniz. Selected topics from more recent history may also be included, such as non-Euclidean geometries or Cantor's cardinal numbers and countability.
Learning outcome
Upon completion of the course the candidate is able to
- explain the development of mathematical notions within number theory, geometry and analysis in a historical context,
- interpret and discuss the content of a mathematical source text, and
- through computational examples demonstrate techniques from a selection of mathematical sources and compare such techniques from various epochs.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Exam
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exam | 1/1 | 4 Hours | Letter grades | No printed or written materials are allowed. Approved basic calculator allowed |
Written exam is with pen and paper
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Alex Bentley NielsenCourse coordinator:
Martin Gunnar GulbrandsenCourse teacher:
Alexander UlanovskiiHead of Department:
Bjørn Henrik AuestadMethod of work
6 hours per week - lectures and problem solving.
Overlapping courses
| Course | Reduction (SP) |
|---|---|
| The History of Mathematics (ÅMA240_1) | 10 |