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Caltech Course Catalog / 2025-2026 Catalog / Courses 2025-26 / Classification of Simple Lie Algebras

Ma 123 - Classification of Simple Lie Algebras

Ma 123

Classification of Simple Lie Algebras

9 units (3-0-6)   |  third term
Prerequisites: Ma 5 or equivalent.

This course is an introduction to Lie algebras and the classification of the simple Lie algebras over the complex numbers. This will include Lie's theorem, Engel's theorem, the solvable radical, and the Cartan Killing trace form. The classification of simple Lie algebras proceeds in terms of the associated reflection groups and a classification of them in terms of their Dynkin diagrams. Not offered 2025-26.

Published Date: Aug. 29, 2025