In Switzer's text, homotopy is introduced as a way of relating maps between topological spaces. Specifically, Switzer defines homotopy as a continuous map:
In conclusion, Switzer's text, "Algebraic Topology - Homotopy and Homology", is a classic reference in the field of algebraic topology. The text provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject, covering topics such as homotopy, homology, and spectral sequences. Algebraic topology is a powerful tool for understanding topological spaces, with applications in computer science and connections to many other areas of mathematics. switzer algebraic topology homotopy and homology pdf
... → C_n → C_{n-1} → ... → C_1 → C_0 → 0 In Switzer's text, homotopy is introduced as a
where X and Y are topological spaces, and [0,1] is the unit interval. This map F is called a homotopy between two maps f and g, where f(x) = F(x,0) and g(x) = F(x,1). Algebraic topology is a powerful tool for understanding
H_n(X) = ker(∂ n) / im(∂ {n+1})