Elementary Topics in Differential Geometry (Undergraduate Texts in Mathematics)

Book Details

• Publisher: Springer

• Author: J.A. Thorpe

• Language: English

• Edition: 1st Ed. 1979, Corr. 4th Printing 1994

• ISBN: 9780387903576

• Pages: 256

• Cover: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.5 x 0.7 inches

About The Book

In Elementary Topics in Differential Geometry, J.A. Thorpe addresses a significant shift in the freshman/sophomore mathematics curriculum, where linear algebra has been integrated into the teaching of differential equations and multivariate calculus. This 1st edition, originally published in 1979 and corrected in the 4th printing of 1994, emphasizes the importance of understanding higher-dimensional spaces, a concept that has often been neglected in traditional textbooks.

While many textbooks at the junior level still focus primarily on 2-dimensional surfaces in 3-space, Thorpe’s work takes a more advanced approach, expanding the student's understanding to surfaces of arbitrary dimensions. The book reinforces linear algebra principles in the context of differential geometry, allowing students to cultivate a deeper appreciation for spaces of higher dimensions and the broader applications of these concepts.

This hardcover edition offers a comprehensive exploration of differential geometry, making it an excellent resource for students who have completed their sophomore year and are ready to engage with more complex topics. The clear, accessible explanations and foundational approach make it an invaluable resource for both students and educators in the field of mathematics.