A minimal non-solvable group of homeomorphisms. (Q1016442)

Let \(\text{PL}_0(I)\) be the group of orientation preserving piecewise linear homeomorphisms of the unit interval. The author exhibits a non-solvable group \(W\) which embeds in every non-solvable subgroup of \(\text{PL}_0(I)\). He shows that all solvable subgroups of \(\text{PL}_0(I)\) embed in all non-solvable subgroups of \(\text{PL}_0(I)\). These results hold also if one replaces \(\text{PL}_0(I)\) by any generalized Thompson group \(F_n\). This work continues the author's investigations [in J. Lond. Math. Soc., II. Ser. 78, No. 2, 352-372 (2008; Zbl 1192.20025) and J. Algebra 319, No. 4, 1368-1397 (2008; Zbl 1170.20024)]. The method is a careful analysis of the geometry and combinatorics of piecewise linear homeomorphisms.