Mathematical Conversations

In 1896, Frobenius obtained a remarkable character-theoretic formula for the number of solutions to the equation \(xyx^{-1}y^{-1}=g\), for any finite group \(G\) and element \(g \in G\). While more than a century has since passed, our understanding of this kind of results is far from complete. I will tell of what is known, and of some fascinating open questions.

About Mathematical Conversations: We meet in Harry's Bar at 6pm, where free drinks are provided. After 20 minutes, we move to the Dilworth room, where the speaker gives a 20-minute talk, followed by 15 minutes of discussion with the audience. After that we return to the bar for further discussions.