A piecewise linear proof that the singular norm is the Thurston norm (Q690272)

Let \(M\) be a compact orientable 3-manifold and \(N\) be a subsurface of its boundary \(\partial M\). The Thurston norm of an element in the second relative homology \(H_ 2(M,N)\) is the minimum of the negative Euler- characteristic of an embedded orientable surface with boundary in \(N\) and representing the given homology class, neglecting surfaces of positive Euler-characteristic. For the singular Thurston norm arbitrary, i.e. not necessarily embedded surfaces are allowed. The main result states that the singular Thurston norm coincides with the Thurston norm. This result, conjectured by Thurston, was first proved in the case \(N= \partial M\) by \textit{D. Gabai} [J. Differ. Geom. 18, 445-503 (1983; Zbl 0533.57013)] using sutured manifold hierarchies, foliation theory and minimal surface techniques. The present geometric-combinatorial proof is more direct using as its main tool only the existence of sutured manifold hierarchies.