On Murray-von Neumann algebras -- I: Topological, Order-Theoretic and Analytical Aspects

DOI10.1007/S43037-021-00129-7arXiv1911.01978MaRDI QIDQ6328586FDOQ6328586

Authors: Soumyashant Nayak 

Publication date: 5 November 2019

Abstract: For a countably decomposable finite von Neumann algebra $mathscrR$, we show that any choice of a faithful normal tracial state on $mathscrR$ engenders the same measure topology on $mathscrR$ in the sense of Nelson (J. Func. Anal., 15 (1974), 103--116). Consequently it is justified to speak of `the' measure topology of $mathscrR$. Having made this observation, we extend the notion of measure topology to general finite von Neumann algebras and denominate it the $mathfrakm$-topology. We note that the procedure of $mathfrakm$-completion yields Murray-von Neumann algebras in a functorial manner and provides them with an intrinsic description as unital ordered complex topological $\ast$-algebras. This enables the study of abstract Murray-von Neumann algebras avoiding reference to a Hilbert space. Furthermore, it makes apparent the appropriate notion of Murray-von Neumann subalgebras, and the intrinsic nature of the spectrum and point spectrum of elements, independent of their ambient Murray-von Neumann algebra. In this context, we show the well-definedness of the Borel function calculus for normal elements and use it along with approximation techniques in the $mathfrakm$-topology to transfer many standard operator inequalities involving bounded self-adjoint operators to the setting of (unbounded) self-adjoint operators in Murray-von Neumann algebras. On the algebraic side, Murray-von Neumann algebras have been described as the Ore localization of finite von Neumann algebras with respect to their corresponding multiplicative subset of non-zero-divisors. Our discussion reveals that, in addition, there are fundamental topological, order-theoretic and analytical facets to their description.

Mathematics Subject Classification ID

General theory of von Neumann algebras (46L10) Noncommutative measure and integration (46L51) Algebras of unbounded operators; partial algebras of operators (47L60)

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