21.146 (2026)

Open

(Well-known problem). A classifying space for a group $G$ is a connected CW-complex with fundamental group $G$ and all higher homotopy groups trivial. A group is of type $F_n$ if it has a classifying space with finite $n$-skeleton. For example, type $F_1$ is equivalent to finite generation, and type $F_2$ is equivalent to finite presentability. Type $F_\infty$ means type $F_n$ for all $n$.

For $n \geqslant 3$, does every group of type $F_{n-1}$ embed as a subgroup of a group of type $F_n$? Or even in a group of type $F_\infty$?

Comments

All comments are the responsibility of the user. Comments appearing on this page are not verified for correctness. Please keep posts mathematical and on topic. If you want to submit a proof (or a partial proof), please use the dedicated proof submission form rather than posting it in the comments.
Order by newest first or oldest first.

No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

Proof claims

Proof claims are the responsibility of the submitter. Appearance here does not mean the claim has been checked for mathematical correctness. Moderators only screen for spam, abuse, and obviously low-effort submissions.

No proof claims yet.