8
$\begingroup$

Reidermeister's theorem states that the set of knots, modulo ambient isotopy, is isomorphic to the planar algebra generated by crossings, modulo Reidemeister moves. This planar algebra presentation is the starting point for much of quantum topology. Of course this set of generators and relations isn't unique. I'm interested in unknotting moves other than crossing changes, and I would like to ask

Is there another known "convenient" planar algebra presentation, generators modulo relations, which gives rise to knots? In particular, can I sensibly choose generators corresponding to resolutions of triple-points?

We can generalize in many ways. For example we can allow circuit algebras, which are non-planar, and obtain the set of virtual knots. I have the same question regarding such generalizations. Also

Is there a result that any presentation of a planar algebra giving rise to knots, other than the one given by crossings modulo Reidemeister moves, would necessarily be significantly harder to work with? I.e. is there some sort of non-trivial "optimality result" for the presentation "crossings mod Reidemeister moves"?
Improve this question
$\endgroup$
3
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ You should look at Example 2.5 of Vaughan Jones's "Planar Algebras." There he works out a presentation of the HOMFLY skein theory starting with generators which are resolutions of triple points. Remark 1 there seems to be essentially your question, so I don't think such a presentation is known. $\endgroup$
    – Noah Snyder
    Commented Aug 17, 2010 at 21:49
  • $\begingroup$ Sorry, forgot the link: math.berkeley.edu/~vfr/planar.pdf $\endgroup$
    – Noah Snyder
    Commented Aug 17, 2010 at 21:50
  • $\begingroup$ Noah: Thanks for the link! I knew nothing about this. Yes, his Remark 1 does turn out to be my question, with similar motivation.. $\endgroup$
    – Daniel Moskovich
    Commented Aug 18, 2010 at 13:35

0

Reset to default

You must log in to answer this question.