Higher Order Smallest Parts Functions and Rank-Crank Moment Inequalities from Bailey Pairs

Abstract

We generalize a result of Garvan on inequalities and interpretations of the moments of the partition rank and crank functions. In particular for nearly 30 Bailey pairs, we introduce a rank-like function, establish inequalities with the moments of the rank-like function and an associated crank-like function, and give an associated so called higher order smallest parts function. In some cases we are able to deduce inequalities among the rank-like functions. We also conjecture additional inequalities and a large number of congruences for the higher order smallest parts functions.