An Introduction to Knot TheoryThis account is an introduction to mathematical knot theory, the theory of knots and links of simple closed curves in three-dimensional space. Knots can be studied at many levels and from many points of view. They can be admired as artifacts of the decorative arts and crafts, or viewed as accessible intimations of a geometrical sophistication that may never be attained. The study of knots can be given some motivation in terms of applications in molecular biology or by reference to paral lels in equilibrium statistical mechanics or quantum field theory. Here, however, knot theory is considered as part of geometric topology. Motivation for such a topological study of knots is meant to come from a curiosity to know how the ge ometry of three-dimensional space can be explored by knotting phenomena using precise mathematics. The aim will be to find invariants that distinguish knots, to investigate geometric properties of knots and to see something of the way they interact with more adventurous three-dimensional topology. The book is based on an expanded version of notes for a course for recent graduates in mathematics given at the University of Cambridge; it is intended for others with a similar level of mathematical understanding. In particular, a knowledge of the very basic ideas of the fundamental group and of a simple homology theory is assumed; it is, after all, more important to know about those topics than about the intricacies of knot theory. |
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3-manifold Alexander polynomial Algebraic alternating annulus application arcs base base point boundary bounds calculation called changed Chapter complex components connected Consider consists constructed contained Conway copies corresponding course covering crossing defined definition determinant diagram disc disjoint easy element elementary equivalent example exists fact follows formula framed function genus given gives Hence homeomorphism homology identity induction integer intersection invariant Jones polynomial Kauffman knot labelled Lemma lift linking number loop manifold matrix means meets method module moves neighbourhood Note obtained once oriented link parallel plane points positive presentation prime produce proof Proposition Prove regions removing replaced represented respect result Seifert surface sequence shown in Figure shows side simple closed curve skein solid space square standard Suppose surgery Table taking Theorem theory torus trivial Type union unknot usual zero
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| Title | An Introduction to Knot Theory Volume 175 of Graduate Texts in Mathematics, ISSN 0072-5285 Volume 175 of Introduction to Knot Theory Series |
| Authors | W.B.Raymond Lickorish, W. B. Lickorish |
| Edition | illustrated |
| Publisher | Springer Science & Business Media, 1997 |
| ISBN | 038798254X, 9780387982540 |
| Length | 201 pages |
| Subjects | › › Mathematics / Algebra / Abstract Mathematics / Geometry / Analytic Mathematics / Geometry / General Mathematics / Group Theory Mathematics / Topology Science / Physics / Mathematical & Computational |
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