Some Matrix Integrals related to Knots and Links

P. Zinn-Justin

Published 1999-10-04Version 1

The study of a certain class of matrix integrals can be motivated by their interpretation as counting objects of knot theory such as alternating prime links, tangles or knots. The simplest such model is studied in detail and allows to rederive recent results of Sundberg and Thistlethwaite. The second non-trivial example turns out to be essentially the so-called ABAB model, though in this case the analysis has not yet been carried out completely. Further generalizations are discussed. This is a review of work done (in part) in collaboration with J.-B. Zuber.