2000/11/30 by Lenhard L. Ng · 2 citations
Mathematics · #math.GT #msc:57R17 #msc:53D12 #msc:57M27
published as Topology 42 (2003), 55-82 · 24 pages, 13 figures; more examples, section on links added; minor revisions made
arxiv created 2001/07/02 · arxiv updated 2009/11/30
We establish tools to facilitate the computation and application of the Chekanov-Eliashberg differential graded algebra (DGA), a Legendrian-isotopy invariant of Legendrian knots in standard contact three-space. More specifically, we reformulate the DGA in terms of front projection, and introduce the characteristic algebra, a new invariant derived from the DGA. We use our techniques to distinguish between several previously indistinguishable Legendrian knots and links.