This course introduces students to some of the mathematical tools required for intermediate level courses in economics (applied and theory): in particular Riemann integration (areas, indefinite integrals, improper integrals with application to random variables), elements of linear algebra, matrices and vector spaces, functions of several variables, differential calculus, and optimization.
Course lecture notes will be the main reference.
Complementary recommended readings posted on the (moodle) course web site.
Obiettivi Formativi
The goal of the course is to provide the ability to understand the formalization of standard problems found in economics and to complement competences from statistics/econometrics courses. Students will also be able to read the economic literature up to a moderate level of formalization.
Prerequisiti
It is necessary to be familiar with single variable calculus (functions, limits, derivatives).
Metodi Didattici
Lectures (48 hours).
Altre Informazioni
More details on the moodle platform at e-l.unifi.it (ask lecturer for access key).
Modalità di verifica apprendimento
The final exam consists in a written test. More details on moodle at e-l.unifi.it.
Programma del corso
Elements of Riemann integration. Functions of several variables: geometric representation, level sets, partial derivatives. Tools for comparative statics: the chain rule and Implicit differentiation. Unconstrained optimization in several variables. Matrix and vector algebra: systems of linear equations, determinant and inverse of a matrix. Vector spaces and subspaces. Bases and Dimension. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors.