A class of knots with simple $SU(2)$ representations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new class of knots called $SU(2)$-simple knots, explores their properties, and shows their branched double covers are strong L-spaces, revealing connections between knot theory, representation theory, and 3-manifold topology.

Contribution

The paper defines $SU(2)$-simple knots, constructs an infinite family with bridge number ≥ 3, and links their properties to strong L-spaces and irreducible representations of 3-manifold groups.

Findings

Infinite family of $SU(2)$-simple knots with bridge number ≥ 3

Branched double covers of these knots are strong L-spaces

Any integer homology graph manifold admits irreducible representations

Abstract

We call a knot in the 3-sphere $SU(2)$-simple if all representations of the fundamental group of its complement which map a meridian to a trace-free element in $SU(2)$ are binary dihedral. This is a generalisation of being a 2-bridge knot. Pretzel knots with bridge number $\geq 3$ are not $SU(2)$-simple. We provide an infinite family of knots $K$ with bridge number $\geq 3$ which are $SU(2)$-simple. One expects the instanton knot Floer homology $I^\natural(K)$ of a $SU(2)$-simple knot to be as small as it can be -- of rank equal to the knot determinant $\det(K)$. In fact, the complex underlying $I^\natural(K)$ is of rank equal to $\det(K)$, provided a genericity assumption holds that is reasonable to expect. Thus formally there is a resemblance to strong L-spaces in Heegaard Floer homology. For the class of $SU(2)$-simple knots that we introduce this formal resemblance is reflected topologically: The branched double covers of these knots are strong L-spaces. In fact, somewhat surprisingly, these knots are alternating. However, the Conway spheres are hidden in any alternating diagram. With the methods we use, we show that an integer homology 3-sphere which is a graph manifold always admits irreducible representations of its fundamental group.