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401-8571-72L 9 Credits BSC , MSC D-MATH

Differential Forms in Algebraic Topology (University of Zurich)

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Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:14

Abstract

This class will focus on those spaces that have a structure of differentiable manifolds and will use, as primary tools, differential forms on them. As a first example of invariants we will consider the de Rham cohomology, namely, spaces of closed forms modulo exact forms.

Objective

Understanding the basic concepts and applying them to a variety of situations.

Content

Algebraic topology consists of algebraic methods devoted to the problem of distinguishing nonhomeomorphic topological spaces (an example of this is the fundamental group discussed in the class Topology). This class will focus on those spaces that have a structure of differentiable manifolds and will use, as primary tools, differential forms on them. As a first example of invariants we will consider the de Rham cohomology, namely, spaces of closed forms modulo exact forms. This approach is "less elementary" than others, as it requires the notions of differentiable manifold and of differential form and as it uses integration as an essential tool. On the other hand, for those that are already familiar with these concepts, it provides a more intuitive approach. Moreover, several results are of direct importance to applications, e.g., in physics.

Resources

Literature

R. Bott and L. W. Tu, Differential Forms in Algebraic Topology, Springer (GTM, volume 82), 1982.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Registration modalities, date and venue of this performance assessment are specified solely by the UZH.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Differential Forms in Algebraic Topology (University of Zurich) No time listed 4 h weekly
exercise Differential Forms in Algebraic Topology (University of Zurich) No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In