Date/Time
Date(s) - 17/01/2025
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Britton Lectures

Dr. Henry Schenck
R.K. Brown Chair of Mathematics, Auburn University
Research Area: Algebra

Title: Symmetry, Physics…and Algebra?: Calabi-Yau Manifolds to Gorenstein Rings

Abstract: In physics, String Theory posits a symmetry between certain pairs of geometric objects: Calabi-Yau threefolds, which are (complex) three dimensional algebraic varieties with trivial canonical bundle, such that all but the top and bottom cohomology of the structure sheaf vanishes. In algebra, Gorenstein rings are objects possessing an intrinsic, internal symmetry. We’ll discuss connections between the two sets of objects, going from the basic algebraic construction to computations. This connection turns out to produce “new’’ possibilities for the Hodge numbers of Calabi-Yau threefolds. The talk will start from ground zero: everything we need along the way will be defined by example.

 

Coffee will be served in the same room, HH 305 at 3:00pm. All are welcome!