Is $\omega^2$ nowhere vanishing on the four-sphere?

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    2016
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the mathematical inquiry regarding whether the two-form $\omega$ on the four-sphere results in $\omega^2$ (or $\omega \wedge \omega$) being nowhere vanishing. The problem remains unanswered in the forum, indicating a lack of consensus or clarity on the topic. The original poster encourages readers to refer to the Problem of the Week (POTW) guidelines for further context and to submit their solutions. This highlights the ongoing exploration of differential forms in topology.

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Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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If $\omega$ is a two-form on the four-sphere, is $\omega^2$ (i.e., $\omega \wedge \omega$) nowhere vanishing?

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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 read my solution below.
The answer is no. Suppose to the contrary that $\omega$ is nowhere vanishing. Then $\omega^2$, being a 4-form on a compact oriented 4-manifold has nonzero integral. The de Rham cohomology groups of the four-sphere are $\Bbb R$ in dimensions zero and four, and zero in every other dimension. Thus, $\omega$ is exact. If $\omega = d\eta$, then $\omega^2 = d(\eta \wedge d\eta)$. So $\omega^2$ is exact; its integral is zero by Stokes's theorem. This is absurd.
 

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