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Apr 09, 2026
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University General Course Catalog 2024-2025 ARCHIVED CATALOG: LINKS AND CONTENT ARE OUT OF DATE. CHECK WITH YOUR ADVISOR.
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MATH 444 - Introduction to Knot Theory (3 units)
Knot Theory is the study of knots and links in 3-space. It is a fundamental part of low-dimensional topology, but knots have found applications in biology, chemistry, physics and beyond. The classification of knots is the theory’s main goal, a hard and unsolved problem, chiefly studied by means of knot invariants. This class is an introduction to knot theory, and will present many examples of knots, and study a host of knot invariants: The Alexander and Jones polynomials, knot genera, etc.
Maximum units a student may earn: 3
Prerequisite(s): MATH 330 . Corequisite(s): MATH 331
Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall - Odd Years
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. calculate the Alexander-Conway, Jones and HOMFLYPT polynomial of a knot/link using skein relations.
2. describe and classify the certain families of knots, such as torus knots and twist knots.
3. use a Seifert surface of a knot/link to compute its signature, determinant and linking form.
Click here for course scheduling information. | Check course textbook information
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