Symmetries of Coxeter Groups and Their Root Systems

Tim Ferdinands, Bethel College

Although most people appreciate when an object is symmetric, the concept of symmetry can be difficult to define. Coxeter groups help us to define and classify different symmetries of objects.  Root systems allow us to visualize the symmetries associated to a Coxeter group.  In this talk we will introduce symmetry groups and present the definition of a Coxeter group.  Then we will introduce root systems and demonstrate how they enable us to visualize properties of Coxeter groups.  

 Refreshments precede the talk at 3:30 p.m. in NH 282.