MA4Z7-Number Theory

Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: MA1RA1 Real Analysis I or MA2RA1 Real Analysis I
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: MA3Z7 Number Theory
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Dr Chris Daw
Email: chris.daw@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module covers the theory of numbers.

Aims:

To put on a rigorous basis some fundamental facts about the integers that are familiar to all students at an intuitive level; to introduce topics which are easily appreciated, but whose solutions are much less easy.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students are expected to be able to:

• use the ideas of factorisation, prime numbers and congruence of numbers,


• solve appropriate problems in these areas.


• manipulate arithmetical functions.


• manipulate Dirichlet series


• make some elementary estimates of the average of arithmetical functions.

This module will be assessed to a greater depth than the excluded module MA3Z7.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The main topics are:

• divisibility and prime numbers;


• congruences and modular arithmetic;


• a study of arithmetical functions.

For the latter we introduce their Dirichlet generating functions and use these to obtain their average behaviour.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures supported by problem sheets.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20
Guided independent study:	80
Total hours by term	100
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

2 hours.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Problem sheets.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

One examination paper of 2 hours duration in August/September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 8 April 2021