Claremont Topology Seminar: Puttipong Pongtanapaisan (Pitzer College)

Speaker: Puttipong Pongtanapaisan (Pitzer)

Title: Introduction to Quantum Invariants of 3-Manifolds

Abstract: The previous speakers showed us how to distinguish knots and links using techniques involving quantum groups. I will start by explaining briefly why 3-manifolds, much like the universe we live in, can actually be represented as knots and links with numbers assigned to each component. Furthermore, diagrams of equivalent 3-manifolds differ by a sequence of moves that are highly similar to Reidemeister moves. To study 3-manifolds, we will adapt the techniques discussed by previous speakers to come up with a quantity unchanged by these new moves. I will compute the invariant for some classic examples and draw lots of pictures.

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We especially welcome all undergraduates and graduate students to attend topology seminar!

Room: Roberts South 103