Algebraic Geometry – Cohomology Basis of Grassmannian and Schubert Cycles

algebraic-geometryalgebraic-topologyhomology-cohomologyschubert-calculus

Let $G(r, n)$ be the Grassmannian of the set of all $r$-planes in a $n$-dim vector space. How to show that the cohomology of a Grassmannian has a basis consisting of the equivalent classes represented by Schubert cycles? I am confused since I don't know how to compute the cohomology of a variety (how to construct the co-chain complex). I am really appreciate if you can compute the cohomology of, for example, $G(2,4)$ and show that it has a basis consisting of the equivalent classes represented by Schubert cycles.

Best Answer

I am not an expert and this is probably not an answer, but your question is essentially a classical problem. You may refer to Hatcher's proof in his book or notes by Michael Hopkins in here. I am sorry that I could not address your question on $Gr(2,4)$ as I have not done the computation for years. The essential tool would be celluar decomposition, calculation of the degree, and Poincare duality. This used to be my final problem when I was learning algebraic topology years ago.

There may be slicker ways to carry out the computation of Schubert calculus but as far as I know it is usually a troublesome process and has only been solved by Ravi Vakil by his paper in Annals. This is also related to some extent with Schubert polynomials, which I personally know very little. Generally Schubert calculus offer a way of getting 'universal' objects that might represent specific objects.

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