Introduction to Algebraic Geometry

Algebraic geometry has a reputation for being difficult and inaccessible, even among mathematicians! This must be overcome. The subject is central to pure mathematics, and applications in fields like physics, computer science, statistics, engineering, and computational biology are increasingly important. This book is based on courses given at Rice University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, introducing algebraic geometry to a diverse audience consisting of advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics, as well as researchers in related fields. For readers with a grasp of linear algebra and elementary abstract algebra, the book covers the fundamental ideas and techniques of the subject and places these in a wider mathematical context. However, a full understanding of algebraic geometry requires a good knowledge of guiding classical examples, and this book offers numerous exercises fleshing out the theory. It introduces Grobner bases early on and offers algorithms for most every technique described. Both students of mathematics and researchers in related areas benefit from the emphasis on computational methods and concrete examples. Book jacket.