Alexander Polynomial
The Alexander Polynomial is a mathematical invariant used in the field of knot theory, which studies the properties of knots and links. It is a polynomial that helps distinguish different knots by providing a unique algebraic representation for each one. The polynomial is derived from a knot diagram and can be calculated using various methods, including the Alexander matrix.
This polynomial is named after the mathematician James W. Alexander, who introduced it in 1928. The Alexander Polynomial is particularly useful because it can reveal information about the knot's structure and its potential transformations, making it a valuable tool for mathematicians studying topology.