\(\text{sl}(2)\) tangle homology with a parameter and singular cobordisms (Q929199)

Let \(i\) be the primitive fourth root of unity, and \(a\) a formal variable. The author constructs a bigraded \(sl(2)\) cohomology theory over \(\mathbb Z[i][a]\) for oriented tangles. Setting \(a=0\) yields a version of the Khovanov homology theory and the ambiguity of the sign in the functoriality of the \(sl(2)\) Khovanov theory is resolved. The graded Euler characteristic is the quantum \(sl(2)\) link invariant. The theory is properly functorial under tangle cobordisms.