Applications of combinatorial groups to Hopf invariant and the exponent problem

Abstract

Combinatorial groups together with the groups of natural coalgebra transformations of tensor algebras are linked to the groups of homotopy classes of maps from the James construction to a loop space. This connection gives rise to applications to homotopy theory. The Hopf invariants of the Whitehead products are studied and a rate of exponent growth for the strong version of the Barratt Conjecture is given.

This is the version published by Algebraic & Geometric Topology on 29 November 2006