\(SU(2)\)-representation spaces for two-bridge knots (Q909293)

Representation spaces of the fundamental groups of 2-bridge knot and link complements into SO(3) and SU(2) are described by real plane algebraic curves. The curves are investigated via their singularities and in certain cases proved to be rational. A simple proof is given for the fact that the fundamental group of any manifold resulting from \(S^ 3\) by Dehn surgery along a two-bridge knot possesses non-abelian homomorphic images in SO(3) and SU(2).