The Künneth theorem and the universal coefficient theorem for Kasparov's generalized K-functor (Q1102505)

The Kasparov groups \(KK^*(A,B)\), A,B \(C^*\)-algebras, have proved to be exceptionally useful in operator algebras, geometry and topology. They are an amalgamation of K-homology and K-cohomology. A basic question is whether one can compute \(KK^*(A,B)\) in terms of \(K_*(A)\) and \(K_*(B)\). This is resolved rather thoroughly in the present paper. If A is in the smallest category of separable nuclear \(C^*\)-algebras closed under extensions, direct limits, crossed products with \({\mathbb{R}}\) and \({\mathbb{Z}}\) and KK-equivalence, and B has a countable approximate unit, then the authors prove a Universal Coefficient Theorem of the form \[ 0\to Ext^ 1_{{\mathbb{Z}}}(K_*(A),K_*(B))\to KK^*(A,B)\to Hom(K_*(A),K_*(B))\to 0. \] They also study Künneth Theorems for K- theory of \(C^*\)-algebras. These results are very important and have been crucial for the development of the subject. The exposition is excellent and can serve as an introduction to the homological aspects of KK-theory. There is much more here than the proofs of the aforementioned theorems and it is essentialy reading for anyone interested in the subject.