Cluster algebras and skein algebras for surfaces

Abstract

We consider two algebras of curves associated to an oriented surface of finite type - the cluster algebra from combinatorial algebra, and the skein algebra from quantum topology. We focus on generalizations of cluster algebras and generalizations of skein algebras that include arcs whose endpoints are marked points on the boundary or in the interior of the surface. We show that the generalizations are closely related by maps that can be explicitly defined, and we explore the structural implications, including (non-)finite generation. We also discuss open questions about the algebraic structure of the algebras.

26 page, partly expository, prepared for Proceedings in Contemporary Mathematics