Infinite-dimensional cohomology of \(\mathbf{SL}_2(\mathbb Z[t,t^{-1}])\). (Q2629892)

Let \(J\) be an integral domain with identity and \(F\) be the field of fractions of \(J\). Consider the group \(\Gamma:=\mathrm{SL}_2(J[t,t^{-1}])\). The main result of this paper is that the second cohomology group \(H^2(\Gamma,\mathbb Q)\) is infinite-dimensional, thus generalizing a known result for \(\mathrm{SL}_2(\mathbb Z[t,t^{-1}])\). Following a similar construction by \textit{K.-U. Bux} and \textit{K. Wortman} [Algebr. Geom. Topol. 6, 839-852 (2006; Zbl 1128.20037)], the author constructs a Euclidean building \(X\) with an action of \(\Gamma\) (satisfying certain desired properties). Further, a \(\Gamma\)-equivariant map is constructed from the classifying space of \(\Gamma\) to \(X\). Of particular interest for second degree cohomology is the 3-skeleton of the classifying space. Cocycles are explicitly constructed over \(X\) and then lifted to the classifying space via this map. In such a manner an infinite family of independent 2-cocycles is constructed, thus proving the theorem.