Mathematics
A.Y. 2022/2023
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to enable students to apply mathematics as a useful and precise tool in economics and statistics. Starting with a revision of basic mathematics and developing new theory using practical examples, the course will also foster students' ability in using graphs to simplify and check the resolution of problems.
Expected learning outcomes
Students should be able to formalize practical situations using mathematical methods. They should become competent at creating graphs to represent functions and convey information. Students should be able to develop an effective study method in the subject for further independent learning and to critically analyze relations between mathematical theory and its practical applications.
Lesson period: Second trimester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Lesson period
Second trimester
Emergency procedures will be in accordance to the University regulations.
Course syllabus
Revision of algebra,
analytic geometry, starting with the equation of a straight line;
systems of linear equations, graphs of linear equations and systems.
Introduction to linear programming.
Matrices and their applications in Economics and Politics.
Connection between the slope of a straight line and derivatives.
Derivatives of functions in general. Revision of functions including exponentials and logarithms.
Linear approximation also in the context of Taylor's series.
Optimisation and derivatives. Second derivatives.
Integrals as "antiderivatives". Definite integrals as the area under a graph.
Functions of many variables, partial derivatives, optimisation of multivariable functions.
Constrained optimisation. Lagrange's method.
analytic geometry, starting with the equation of a straight line;
systems of linear equations, graphs of linear equations and systems.
Introduction to linear programming.
Matrices and their applications in Economics and Politics.
Connection between the slope of a straight line and derivatives.
Derivatives of functions in general. Revision of functions including exponentials and logarithms.
Linear approximation also in the context of Taylor's series.
Optimisation and derivatives. Second derivatives.
Integrals as "antiderivatives". Definite integrals as the area under a graph.
Functions of many variables, partial derivatives, optimisation of multivariable functions.
Constrained optimisation. Lagrange's method.
Prerequisites for admission
Good knowledge of the English language, working knowledge of Mathematics' basic rules according to compulsory schooling level.
Teaching methods
- Lectures to cover new topics, including practical examples and suggestions of further applications;
- tutorials to go over exercises and problems in detail, emphasising best techniques to arrive at correct results.
- tutorials to go over exercises and problems in detail, emphasising best techniques to arrive at correct results.
Teaching Resources
- Peter Hammond, "Essential mathematics for economic analysis", (Pearson editors). The current edition is the sixth, previous editions could be used by students but lecture page references will consider only the last edition;
- lecture notes.
- lecture notes.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Written examination consisting of exercises and problems to assess skills in mathematical problem solving and practical applications of the subject. Marks are on a scale of 30.
SECS-S/06 - MATHEMATICAL METHODS OF ECONOMICS, FINANCE AND ACTUARIAL SCIENCES - University credits: 6
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Loewenstein Silva Ruth
Educational website(s)