Lower bounds for the covolume of lattices of semi-simple Lie groups

Speaker: Ilesanmi Adeboye, Wesleyan University

Title: Lower bounds for the covolume of lattices of semi-simple Lie groups

Abstract: A classic theorem of Kazhdan and Margulis states that for any semi-simple Lie group without compact factors, there is a positive lower bound on the co-volume of lattices. A direct consequence is a positive minimum volume for orbifolds modeled on the corresponding symmetric space. In this talk, I will construct an improved upper bound for the sectional curvature of a semi-simple Lie group. I will also show how H. C. Wang’s quantitative analysis of the Kazhdan-Margulis result can be extended to the exceptional Lie groups. These elements will then be used to establish a uniform lower bound for arbitrary orbifold quotients of symmetric spaces of non-compact type.

Time: Friday, October 19, 2018, 3:30-4:20 p.m.

Place: Exploratory Hall, room 4106

Refreshments will be served at 3:00 p.m.