On the metrizability number and related invariants of spaces (Q1892170)

The metrizability number, \(m(X)\), of a space \(X\) is the smallest cardinal \(\kappa\) such that \(X\) can be represented as a union of \(\kappa\) metrizable subspaces. The first countability number, \(fc(X)\), is defined similarly. These numbers can differ. For example the Alexandroff double circle is a (compact) first countable space with metrizability number 2. We mention several results from the paper. (1) If \(X\) is a compact Hausdorff space and \(fc(X) \leq\omega_1\), then every nonempty \(G_\delta\)-subset of \(X\) contains a point of countable character. (2) Whether every compact Hausdorff space \(X\) with \(fc(X) \leq 2^\omega\) is sequentially compact is consistent with and independent of ZFC. (3) If \(X\) is the continuous image of a Cantor cube \(2^\tau\) with \(cof(\tau) > \omega\) then \(fc(X)= m(X)= 2^\tau\).