A Nagata-like theorem for certain function spaces (Q987180)

Let \(X\) be a 0-dimensional space, \(A\) a 0-dimensional topological ring (commutative with unity), and let \(C_p(X, A)\) denote the ring of continuous mappings from \(X\) into \(A\) with the topology of pointwise convergence. A key result of the present paper says that, for any topological space \(Y\), there is a 0-dimensional space \(Z\) such that, for all \(A\), the spaces \(C_p(Y, A)\) and \(C_p(Z, A)\) are topologically isomorphic. This generalizes a number of earlier results, including \textit{R. S. Pierce} [Trans. Am. Math. Soc. 100, 371--394 (1961; Zbl 0196.15401)]. The author obtains bounds on some cardinal invariants from which he deduces that (i) if \(X\) is second countable and \(A\) separable, then \(C_p(X, A)\) is separable; (ii) \(C_p(X,A)\) is metrizable if, and only if, \(X\) is countable and \(A\) metrizable. He also develops conditions under which \(C_p(X, A)\) is topologically isomorphic to \(C_p(Y, A)\) if, and only if, \(X\) is homeomorphic to \(Y\).