Abstract
Given an embedded closed space curve with non-vanishing curvature, its self-linking number is defined as the linking number between the original curve and a curve pushed slightly off in the direction of its principal normals. We present an index formula for the self-linking number in terms of the writhe of a knot diagram of the curve and either (1) an index associated with the tangent indicatrix and its antipodal curve, (2) two indices associated with a stereographic projection of the tangent indicatrix, or (3) the rotation index (Whitney degree) of a stereographic projection of the tangent indicatrix minus the rotation index of the knot diagram.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Geometriae Dedicata |
Volume | 134 |
Issue number | 1 |
Pages (from-to) | 197-202 |
ISSN | 0046-5755 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2008 |
Keywords
- writhe
- total geodesic curvature
- rotation index
- winding number
- self-linking number
- Whitney degree
- total torsion