Correct spelling for the English word "arf invariant" is [ˈɑːf ɪnvˈe͡əɹi͡ənt], [ˈɑːf ɪnvˈeəɹiənt], [ˈɑː_f ɪ_n_v_ˈeə_ɹ_iə_n_t] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Arf invariant is a term primarily used in algebraic number theory and algebraic geometry. It is named after the German mathematician, Emil Artin, and the Russian mathematician, Emil Artin Akhiezer, who independently introduced and studied this concept. The Arf invariant is a quadratic form that assigns an integer value to certain quadratic field extensions.
More precisely, given a quadratic field extension K/F, where K is obtained by adjoining the square root of an element from the base field F, the Arf invariant evaluates the quadratic form associated with K. This quadratic form is defined over the base field F and takes values in the integers. The resulting value of the Arf invariant is either 0 or 1.
The Arf invariant plays a central role in the classification of quadratic forms and quadratic field extensions. It is used to determine the equivalence of quadratic forms under the Witt ring construction. Additionally, it helps classify quaternion algebras over local fields, and it has applications in coding theory and cryptography.
The Arf invariant captures important algebraic and geometric properties of quadratic forms and field extensions, providing a powerful tool for studying and classifying these objects. Its significance extends beyond algebraic number theory, finding applications in various branches of mathematics and related fields.