Nets with critical deficiency (Q2521152)

Let \(N\) denote a net of order \(n\) and deficiency \(d\) such that \(n = (d-1)^2\). It is shown that \(N\) can be extended to an affine plane of order \(n\) in at most two ways and that the number of distinct transversals is at most \(2dn\); furthermore, if there are \(2dn\) distinct transversals, then \(N\) can be extended to a plane in two different ways. This extends the work of \textit{R. H. Bruck} [Pac. J. Math. 13, 421--457 (1963; Zbl 0124.00903)] who obtained similar results when \(n > (d-1)^2\).