I want to study algebraic geometry and differential geometry

AI Thread Summary
To study algebraic geometry and differential geometry, foundational knowledge in linear algebra and a rigorous calculus III course is essential, with recommendations including Spivak's "Calculus on Manifolds" and Do Carmo's "Curves and Surfaces." A solid understanding of abstract and commutative algebra is necessary for algebraic geometry, focusing on concepts like ideals and modules, while topology is also beneficial for both fields. Homological algebra, a subset of abstract algebra, is not immediately required but will become relevant as studies progress. Suggested texts for algebraic geometry include Harris's "Algebraic Geometry: A First Course" and Miranda's "Algebraic Curves and Riemann Surfaces." Artin's algebra can serve as a good resource for abstract algebra, but exploring additional texts may enhance understanding.
pswongaa
Messages
7
Reaction score
0
I want to study algebraic geometry and differential geometry, what should I learn beforehand
what is the relation between abstract algebra and homological algebra:confused:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
As for differential geometry, the minimum prerequisites are linear algebra and a rigorous calc III course. I suggest you go through something like "calculus on manifolds" by Spivak.
Then you can read books like Do Carmo's "Curves and surfaces".

Although not strictly necessary, I would suggest learning topology as well. Thinks are going to make much more sense with some topology knowledge. Either way, if you want to read advanced books on differential geometry, then you will need topology anyway.

As for algebraic geometry, you will need quite a solid knowledge of abstract and commutative algebra. You should be very comfortable with things like ideals, prime ideals, modules, etc.
You don't need to be an expert in commutative algebra however, it is possible to learn the commutative algebra while you are reading algebraic geometry. Just make sure you know the basics.
A basic knowledge of topology is handy as well.
A good book is Harris "Algebraic geometry: a first course".

As for homological algebra, it is a subset of abstract algebra. But you don't need to know homological algebra right away. Besides, it is going to be very weird and unmotivating to you. Of course, one you go deeper into differential geometry, algebraic geometry or algebraic topology, then homological algebra will show up. But by then, it might be more motivated to you.

Another excellent first book in algebraic geometry is Miranda's "algebraic curves and Riemann surfaces". It is totally different than the Harris book, but it is really great in motivating all the concepts. To handle it, you will need to know complex analysis, differential geometry and some abstract algebra.
 
Last edited:
could you suggest some abstract algebra books? I only have artin's algebra, it is enough?
 
I'm going to make this one quick since I have little time. Background: Throughout my life I have always done good in Math. I almost always received 90%+, and received easily upwards of 95% when I took normal-level HS Math courses. When I took Grade 9 "De-Streamed" Math (All students must take "De-Streamed" in Canada), I initially had 98% until I got very sick and my mark had dropped to 95%. The Physics teachers and Math teachers talked about me as if I were some sort of genius. Then, an...
Bit Britain-specific but I was wondering, what's the best path to take for A-Levels out of the following (I know Y10 seems a bit early to be thinking about A-levels, but my choice will impact what I do this year/ in y11) I (almost) definitely want to do physics at University - so keep that in mind... The subjects that I'm almost definitely going to take are Maths, Further Maths and Physics, and I'm taking a fast track programme which means that I'll be taking AS computer science at the end...
After a year of thought, I decided to adjust my ratio for applying the US/EU(+UK) schools. I mostly focused on the US schools before, but things are getting complex and I found out that Europe is also a good place to study. I found some institutes that have professors with similar interests. But gaining the information is much harder than US schools (like you have to contact professors in advance etc). For your information, I have B.S. in engineering (low GPA: 3.2/4.0) in Asia - one SCI...

Similar threads

Replies
46
Views
6K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
23
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top