Frobenius Algebras and 2-D Topological Quantum Field Theories

Joachim Kock author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Cambridge University Press

Published:4th Dec '03

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

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Frobenius Algebras and 2-D Topological Quantum Field Theories cover

This 2003 book connects topology and algebra using modern techniques. Numerous exercises and examples, ideal for course use.

This 2003 book proves striking results connecting topology and algebra and shows how the result fits into a more general pattern. It will prove valuable to students or researchers entering this field who will learn a host of modern techniques. There are numerous exercises and examples making the book suitable for teaching.This 2003 book describes a striking connection between topology and algebra, namely that 2D topological quantum field theories are equivalent to commutative Frobenius algebras. The precise formulation of the theorem and its proof is given in terms of monoidal categories, and the main purpose of the book is to develop these concepts from an elementary level, and more generally serve as an introduction to categorical viewpoints in mathematics. Rather than just proving the theorem, it is shown how the result fits into a more general pattern concerning universal monoidal categories for algebraic structures. Throughout, the emphasis is on the interplay between algebra and topology, with graphical interpretation of algebraic operations, and topological structures described algebraically in terms of generators and relations. The book will prove valuable to students or researchers entering this field who will learn a host of modern techniques that will prove useful for future work.

'This book is a solid introduction to some important ideas of contemporary interest. It is very pleasant to read, and its ample collection of exercises includes interesting examples in addition to tests of basic understanding.' Mathematical Reviews

ISBN: 9780521832670

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 19mm

Weight: 550g

258 pages