Can You Prove $\pi_2(\Bbb CP^\infty) \approx \Bbb Z$?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that the second homotopy group of complex projective space, denoted as $\pi_2(\Bbb CP^\infty)$, is isomorphic to the integers, $\Bbb Z$. This result is established through the application of algebraic topology concepts, particularly using the properties of CW complexes and the Hurewicz theorem. The problem was part of the Problem of the Week (POTW) series for 2014, but no solutions were provided by participants, highlighting the challenge of the topic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of homotopy groups, specifically $\pi_2$.
  • Familiarity with complex projective spaces, particularly $\Bbb CP^\infty$.
  • Knowledge of CW complexes and their properties.
  • Proficiency in the Hurewicz theorem and its implications in algebraic topology.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the proof of the Hurewicz theorem in detail.
  • Explore the properties and applications of complex projective spaces.
  • Learn about the structure of homotopy groups in algebraic topology.
  • Investigate examples of CW complexes and their homotopy equivalences.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, particularly those specializing in algebraic topology, graduate students studying topology, and anyone interested in the properties of homotopy groups and complex projective spaces.

Euge
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Here is the last POTW for 2014!

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Problem. Show that $\pi_2(\Bbb CP^\infty) \approx \Bbb Z$.

______________________

Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
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No one answered this week's problem. You can find my solution below.
There is a fiber bundle $S^1 \to S^\infty \to CP^\infty$, which induces a homotopy exact sequence

$$\pi_2(S^\infty) \to \pi_2(CP^\infty) \to \pi_1(S^1)\to \pi_1(S^\infty)$$

Since $\pi_2(S^\infty) = \pi_1(S^\infty) = 0$ and $\pi_1(S^1) \approx \Bbb Z$, the map $\pi_2(CP^\infty) \to \pi_1(S^1)$ gives an isomorphism $\pi_2(CP^\infty) \approx \Bbb Z$.
 

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