[Topology and Geometry Seminar] “Heegaard splittings and an introduction to 3-manifold theory” by Dr Dale Koenig

The Topology and Geometry Seminar aims to introduce current mathematical research topics starting from the very basics. Anyone interested in mathematics is welcome to attend.

This week, Dr Dale Koenig (postdoc in the Tsvietkova Unit) will speak on "Heegaard splittings and an introduction to 3-manifold theory". (The talk by Prof. Juncheol Pyo was cancelled.)

Abstract: I will begin by reviewing the definition of a Heegaard splitting of a 3-manifold. I will analyze Heegaard splittings of the 3-sphere and some other simple 3-manifolds. I will define stabilization of Heegaard splittings and describe how different Heegaard splittings of a 3-manifold relate to each other. I will also discuss connect sums of 3-manifolds, and describe how every 3-manifold can be broken into simple "prime" 3-manifolds.