What is the Homological Degree of a Fixed Point Free Continuous Map?

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  • Thread starter Euge
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    2016
In summary, the homological degree, also known as the Lefschetz number, is a numerical invariant that measures the topological complexity of a fixed point free continuous map. It is calculated by evaluating the induced map on a chosen homology basis and taking the alternating sum of the values. A homological degree of 0 indicates no topological complexity and the map is homotopic to a constant map. The homological degree can change under homotopy and has applications in various areas of mathematics.
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Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $n$ be a positive integer, and let $\Bbb S^n \to \Bbb S^n$ be a fixed point free continuous map. Show that the map's homological degree is $(-1)^{n+1}$.

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No one answered this week's problem. You can read my solution below.
Since $f(x) \neq x$ for all $x\in \Bbb S^n$, there is a homotopy from $f$ to the antipodal map $-\bf 1$ given by $h_t(x) = \frac{(1 - t)f(x) - tx}{\|(1 - t)f(x) - tx\|}$, for all $t\in [0,1]$ and $x\in \Bbb S^n$. Thus, $\deg(f) = \deg(-\mathbf 1) = (-1)^{n+1}$.
 

1. What is the meaning of "homological degree" in relation to a fixed point free continuous map?

The homological degree, also known as the Lefschetz number, is a numerical invariant that measures the topological complexity of a continuous map. It is defined as the alternating sum of the trace of the induced map on the homology groups of the underlying space.

2. How is the homological degree of a fixed point free continuous map calculated?

The homological degree of a fixed point free continuous map can be calculated by first choosing a homology basis for the underlying space. Then, the induced map on each homology group is evaluated and the alternating sum of these values gives the homological degree.

3. What does a homological degree of 0 indicate about a fixed point free continuous map?

A homological degree of 0 indicates that the fixed point free continuous map does not have any topological complexity, meaning it is homotopic to a constant map. This implies that the map does not have any nontrivial homology or fundamental group.

4. Can the homological degree of a fixed point free continuous map change under homotopy?

Yes, the homological degree of a fixed point free continuous map can change under homotopy. This is because homotopic maps induce the same map on homology groups, but their traces may be different. Therefore, the homological degree is a homotopy invariant.

5. Are there any other applications of the homological degree besides fixed point theory?

Yes, the homological degree has applications in various areas of mathematics, including algebraic topology, differential equations, and algebraic geometry. It can also be used to study the dynamics of continuous maps and to prove the existence of fixed points in a wide range of contexts.

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