Normal zeta functions of small ${\mathfrak{T}}_2$-groups and their behaviour on residue classes

Abstract

Let $G$ be a finitely generate nilpotent class-2 torsion-free group. We study how the zeta function enumerating normal subgroups of G varies on residue classes. In particular, we show that for small such $G$ of Hirsch length less than or equal to 7, the normal zeta functions are generically always rational functions on residue classes. We then show that there are examples of groups with Hirsch length 8 whose normal zeta function is not a rational function on residue classes. We observe the connection to Higman's PORC conjecture.