Geometry & Topology 8 (2004) 295–310

DOI: 10.2140/gt.2004.8.295

arXiv: math.GT/0311489

Abstract

Let K be a non-trivial knot in the 3–sphere and let Y be the 3–manifold obtained by surgery on K with surgery-coefficient 1. Using tools from gauge theory and symplectic topology, it is shown that the fundamental group of Y admits a non-trivial homomorphism to the group SO(3). In particular, Y cannot be a homotopy-sphere.

Keywords

3–manifold, knot, surgery, homotopy sphere, gauge theory

Mathematical Subject Classification

Primary: 57M25, 57R57

Secondary: 57R17

References

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Publication

Received: 7 December 2003
Revised: 9 December 2003
Accepted: 13 February 2004
Published: 14 February 2004
Proposed: Robion Kirby
Seconded: John Morgan, Ronald Stern

Authors