Abstract
We define a set of “second-order” –signature invariants for any algebraically slice knot. These obstruct a knot’s being a slice knot and generalize Casson–Gordon invariants, which we consider to be “first-order signatures”. As one application we prove: If is a genus one slice knot then, on any genus one Seifert surface , there exists a homologically essential simple closed curve of self-linking zero, which has vanishing zero-th order signature and a vanishing first-order signature. This extends theorems of Cooper and Gilmer. We introduce a geometric notion, that of a derivative of a knot with respect to a metabolizer. We also introduce a new relation, generalizing homology cobordism, called null-bordism.
Citation
Tim D Cochran. Shelly Harvey. Constance Leidy. "Derivatives of knots and second-order signatures." Algebr. Geom. Topol. 10 (2) 739 - 787, 2010. https://doi.org/10.2140/agt.2010.10.739
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