Work

Geometric properties of unit groups of von Neumann's continuous rings

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We prove that, if $R$ is a non-discrete irreducible, continuous ring, then its unit group $\mathrm{GL}(R)$, equipped with the topology generated by the rank metric, is topologically simple modulo its center, path-connected, locally path-connected, bounded in the sense of Bourbaki, and not admitting any non-zero escape function. All these topological insights are consequences of more refined geometric results concerning the rank metric, in particular with regard to the set of algebraic elements. Thanks to the phenomenon of automatic continuity, our results also have non-trivial ramifications for the underlying abstract groups.

Source: Journal of Algebra

DOI: 10.1016/j.jalgebra.2026.08.005

Author: Friedrich Martin Schneider

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Operator Algebra Research

Subfield: Mathematical Physics

Field: Mathematics

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,310

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

Awards: G2145371597, G5610728504