This course covers the mathematical tools required for intermediate level courses in economics (applied and theory). In particular matrices, functions of several variables, differential calculus and static optimisation will be covered.
Essential Mathematics for Economic Analysis - Knut Sydsaeter, Peter Hammond, Arne Strom, Andrés Carvajal. Pearson 2016.
Learning Objectives
The goal is to provide the ability to deal with standard optimization problems found in economics. 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 1 variable calculus (functions, limits, derivatives).
Teaching Methods
Lectures (48 hours), classroom exercises and take-home problem sets.
Further information
More details on the moodle platform at e-l.unifi.it (ask lecturer for access key).
Type of Assessment
The consists in a a written test. More details on moodle at e-l.unifi.it.
Course program
Functions of several variables: geometric representation, level sets, partial derivatives. Elasticities. Tools for comparative statics: Implicit differentiation, the chain rule, differentials. Matrix and vector algebra: determinants, inverses. Unconstrained optimization in several variables: necessary and sufficient conditions.Elements of constrained optimization.