Group-theoretic algebraic models for homotopy types (Q1181439): Difference between revisions

It is well known that (a) simplicial groups model all connected homotopy types via Kan's \(G\)-functor, (b) the homology groups of the Moore complex are the homotopy groups of the corresponding type, (c) the Dold-Kan theorem for simplicial abelian groups states that a simplicial abelian group can be rebuilt, up to isomorphism, from its Moore complex. In this paper it is shown that the Moore complex of an arbitrary simplicial group, \(G\), carries an extra ``hypercomplex'' structure that enables \(G\) to be rebuilt from its Moore hypercomplex. This non-abelian Dold-Kan theorem is linked with previously known versions for crossed complexes and \(T\)-complexes [\textit{N. Ashley}, ``\(T\)-complexes and crossed complexes'', Thesis, Univ. Coll. North Wales (1978; Zbl 0558.55015); reprinted in Esquisses Math. 32 (1983)], 2-crossed modules and 2- truncated simplicial groups [\textit{D. Conduché}, J. Pure Appl. Algebra 34, 155--178 (1984; Zbl 0554.20014)] and the MacLane-Whitehead classification of ``3-types'' [\textit{S. MacLane} and \textit{J. H. C. Whitehead}, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 36, 41--48 (1950; Zbl 0035.39001)]. It is also linked with questions of the realizability of cohomology classes.