Groups generated by positive multi-twists and the fake lantern problem (Q1855207)

Let \(\Gamma \) be a group generated by two positive multi-twists. Sufficient conditions for \(\Gamma \) to be free and to have no ``unexpectedly reducible elements'' are given. If \(\Gamma\) is generated by two Dehn twists, a classification for the multi-twist elements of \(\Gamma\) is given. Furthermore, the author classifies groups generated by powers of two Dehn twists which are free or have no ``unexpectedly reducible'' elements. Finally, a partial answer for similar questions in the case of groups generated by powers of \(n\geq 3\) twists is given.