All generating pairs of all two-generator Fuchsian groups (Q1057367): Difference between revisions

The problem of when two transformations A, B in PSL(2,\({\mathbb{R}})\) generate a Fuchsian group was thought to have been solved completely in the paper of \textit{N. Purzitsky} [Math. Z. 147, 87-92 (1976; Zbl 0305.20025)], when taken together with results of A. W. Knapp, N. Purzitsky and G. Rosenberger. However, \textit{J. P. Matelski} [Isr. J. 42, 309-317 (1982; Zbl 0497.20036)] pointed out an error in the main statements of Purzitsky's paper and showed geometrically that there is just one more possibility for two hyperbolic elements with axes intersecting in exactly one point to generate a (2,3,7)-triangle group \(<A,B| \quad A^ 2=B^ 3=(AB)^ 7=1>.\) He gave an algorithmic approach for deciding the discreteness of two- generator subgroups of PSL(2,\({\mathbb{R}})\). His approach is not very effective and does not help very much for the original problem. Especially, Metelski did not describe all generating pairs of all two- generator Fuchsian groups and also did not present criteria for deciding the discreteness of all two-generator subgroups of PSL(2,\({\mathbb{R}}).\) In this paper we give a complete correction of Purzitsky's paper, describe all generating pairs of all two-generator Fuchsian groups and present a short algebraic algorithm for deciding the discreteness of all two-generator subgroups of PSL(2,\({\mathbb{R}})\).