This course covers the mathematical tools required for intermediate level courses in economics (applied and theory): functions of several variables, differential calculus and static optimization, linear algebra and matrices.
Knut Sydsaeter, Peter Hammond, Arne Strom, Andrés Carvajal. Essential Mathematics for Economic Analysis. Pearson 2016.
Learning Objectives
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.
Prerequisites
It is necessary to be familiar with single variable calculus (functions, limits, derivatives).
Teaching Methods
Lectures (48 hours).
Further information
More details on the moodle platform at e-l.unifi.it (ask lecturer for access key).
Type of Assessment
The exam consists in a written test. More details on moodle at e-l.unifi.it.
Course program
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: necessary and sufficient conditions. Elements of constrained optimization. Matrix and vector algebra: systems of linear equations, determinant and inverse of a matrix. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors.