Introduction to Differential Geometry - Vectors (Undergraduate Foundation)

This course provides a rigorous introduction to the differential geometry of curves in three-dimensional space. Using the tools of vector calculus, you will learn to analyze the intrinsic properties of a curve at any point. We will explore key concepts such as arc length, curvature, and torsion, and define the moving T-N-B frame (tangent, normal, and binormal vectors) using the celebrated Frenet-Serret formulas. How can we mathematically describe the precise twisting and turning of a curve in space? Differential geometry provides the elegant and powerful answer. This field is not just abstract; its principles are fundamental to understanding the shape of DNA, designing paths for robotics, and creating realistic motion in computer graphics. This course reveals the beautiful mathematics behind the shapes that define our world. This programme is designed for students who have completed our introductory course on vector calculus and wish to explore a beautiful application of its principles. It is ideal for students of mathematics, physics, and computer science with an interest in geometry and abstract structures. This course will sharpen your analytical skills and provide a solid foundation for more advanced studies in geometry and topology.

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Payment required for enrolment
Enrolment valid for 12 months
This course is also part of the following learning track. You may join the track to gain comprehensive knowledge across related courses.
[OAU, Ife] MTH 104: Vectors
[OAU, Ife] MTH 104: Vectors
This comprehensive learning track guides you through the complete world of vector analysis. We begin with the fundamentals of vector algebra and its application to foundational geometry. You will then master scalar, vector, and triple products before using them to construct the vector equations of lines, planes, and conics. The journey culminates in advanced topics, including vector calculus, its applications in classical mechanics, and an introduction to differential geometry. Vectors are the essential language used to describe our physical world, making their mastery non-negotiable for any serious student of science or engineering. This track is designed to build your intuition for spatial reasoning and equip you with a powerful problem-solving toolkit. You will see direct applications in mechanics, analyzing forces and motion; in geometry, calculating angles and distances; and in calculus, modeling dynamic change over time. While this track is tailored to the first-year university curriculum for MTH 104 at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, it is an invaluable resource for a wide range of learners. It is ideal for any undergraduate student in mathematics, physics, engineering, or computer science seeking a comprehensive understanding of vector analysis. Furthermore, it serves as an excellent and thorough refresher for professionals who wish to solidify their foundational knowledge of this critical subject.

This comprehensive learning track guides you through the complete world of vector analysis. We begin with the fundamentals of vector algebra and its application to foundational geometry. You will then master scalar, vector, and triple products before using them to construct the vector equations of lines, planes, and conics. The journey culminates in advanced topics, including vector calculus, its applications in classical mechanics, and an introduction to differential geometry. Vectors are the essential language used to describe our physical world, making their mastery non-negotiable for any serious student of science or engineering. This track is designed to build your intuition for spatial reasoning and equip you with a powerful problem-solving toolkit. You will see direct applications in mechanics, analyzing forces and motion; in geometry, calculating angles and distances; and in calculus, modeling dynamic change over time. While this track is tailored to the first-year university curriculum for MTH 104 at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, it is an invaluable resource for a wide range of learners. It is ideal for any undergraduate student in mathematics, physics, engineering, or computer science seeking a comprehensive understanding of vector analysis. Furthermore, it serves as an excellent and thorough refresher for professionals who wish to solidify their foundational knowledge of this critical subject.

Course Chapters

1. Introduction
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Welcome to the course and outline of course.

Chapter lessons

1-1. Welcome

Welcome to the course and outline of course.

2. Differential Geometry
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Arc length and curvature of parametric curves; tangential, normal and binormal vectors to a parametric curve; osculating, normal and rectifying planes to a parametric curve; Frenet-Serret formulas.

Chapter lessons

2-1. Arc length and curvature

Arc length, tangential vector and curvature of a parametric curve.

2-2. Normal and binormal vectors

Normal and binormal vectors to a parametric curve.

2-3. Osculating, normal and rectifying planes

Osculating, normal and rectifying planes of a parametric curve.

2-4. Frenet-Serret formulas

The Frenet-Serret formulas and their applications.