Polynomials and the mod 2 Steenrod Algebra: Representations of GL (London Mathematical Society Lecture Note Series #442)

By: Grant Walker and Reginald M. W. Wood

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Synopsis: This is the first book to link the mod 2 Steenrod algebra, a classical object of study in algebraic topology, with modular representations of matrix groups over the field F of two elements. The link is provided through a detailed study of Peterson's `hit problem' concerning the action of the Steenrod algebra on polynomials, which remains unsolved except in special cases. The topics range from decompositions of integers as sums of 'powers of 2 minus 1', to Hopf algebras and the Steinberg representation of GL(n, F). Volume 1 develops the structure of the Steenrod algebra from an algebraic viewpoint and can be used as a graduate-level textbook. Volume 2 broadens the discussion to include modular representations of matrix groups. Algebraic and combinatorial treatment of Steenrod algebra. Accessible to those without a background in topology. Largely self-contained with detailed proofs.