Root vectors in quantum groups (Q1842238)

The author proves for a root vector that a certain presentation is unique. The uniqueness is useful to prove that root vectors are linearly independent and can be used to get an explicit formula for the antipode of a root vector and give an upper bound for the number of root vectors. He also proves for a root vector that there exists a unique shortest element in the Weyl group attached to it. Then he gives an explicit formula for the coproduct of a root vector in a quantum group of type A. Finally, he lists some commutation formulas for some root vectors, which are \(q\)-analogues of similar formulas in universal enveloping algebras.