Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
4600102 Linear Algebra and its Applications 2013 19 Pages PDF
Abstract

We give an interpretation of the maximal number of linearly independent vector fields on spheres in terms of the Spin(9) representation on R16. This casts an insight on the role of Spin(9) as a subgroup of SO(16) on the existence of vector fields on spheres, parallel to the one played by complex, quaternionic and octonionic structures on R2, R4 and R8, respectively.

Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering Mathematics Algebra and Number Theory