The Braids on Your Blanket

Authors

Michelle ChengFollow
Robert Uwe Laugwitz, University of Nottingham, UKFollow

Abstract / Synopsis

In this expository essay, we introduce some elements of the study of groups by analysing the braid pattern on a knitted blanket. We determine that the blanket features pure braids with a minimal number of crossings. Moreover, we determine polynomial invariants associated to the links obtained by closing the braid patterns of the blanket.

DOI

10.5642/jhummath.YMZO2460

Recommended Citation

Michelle Cheng & Robert U. Laugwitz, "The Braids on Your Blanket," Journal of Humanistic Mathematics, Volume 14 Issue 2 (July 2024), pages 286-337. DOI: 10.5642/jhummath.YMZO2460. Available at: https://scholarship.claremont.edu/jhm/vol14/iss2/10

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