Analytic number theory II

What you will study

The Greeks were the first to classify the integers and it is to them that the first systematic study of the properties of the numbers is attributed. But after about AD 250 the subject stagnated until the seventeenth century. Since then there has been intensive development, using ideas from many branches of mathematics. There are a large number of unsolved problems in number theory that are easy to state and understand – for example:

• Is every even number greater than two the sum of two primes?
• Are there infinitely many ‘twin primes’ (primes differing by 2), such as (3, 5) or (101, 103)?
• Are there infinitely many primes of the form n ² + 1?
• Does there always exist a prime between n ² and (n + 1)² for every integer n > 1?

This module (and the preceding module Analytic number theory I (M823)) are about the application of techniques from analysis in solving problems from number theory. In particular, you’ll learn about the prime number theorem, which estimates how many prime numbers there are less than any given positive integer. You’ll also find out about the Riemann hypothesis, one of the most famous unsolved problems in mathematics. To understand these topics, you’ll study certain rich classes of functions that are analytic in parts of the complex plane, among them the Riemann zeta function, which is the subject of the Riemann hypothesis.

This module is based on Chapters 8-14 of the set book Introduction to Analytic Number Theory by T. M. Apostol.

You will learn

Successful study of this module should enhance your skills in understanding complex mathematical texts, working with abstract concepts, thinking logically and constructing logical arguments, communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly, and explaining mathematical ideas to others.

Teaching and assessment

Support from your tutor

Throughout your module studies, you’ll get help and support from your assigned module tutor. They’ll help you by:

• Marking your assignments (TMAs) and providing detailed feedback for you to improve.
• Guiding you to additional learning resources.
• Providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content.

The module has a dedicated and moderated forum where you can join in online discussions with your fellow students. There are also online module-wide tutorials. While these tutorials won’t be compulsory for you to complete the module, you’re strongly encouraged to take part. If you want to participate, you’ll likely need a headset with a microphone.

Assessment

The assessment details can be found in the facts box.