Points of quantum $\mathrm{SL}_n$ coming from quantum snakes

Abstract

We show that the quantized Fock-Goncharov monodromy matrices satisfy the relations of the quantum special linear group $\mathrm{SL}_n^q$. The proof employs a quantum version of the technology invented by Fock-Goncharov called snakes. This relationship between higher Teichm\"uller theory and quantum group theory is integral to the construction of a $\mathrm{SL}_n$-quantum trace map for knots in thickened surfaces, partially developed in a companion paper (arXiv:2101.06817).