A generalization of the Hopf degree theorem

Abstract

The Hopf theorem states that homotopy classes of continuous maps from a closed connected oriented smooth $n$-manifold $M$ to the $n$-sphere are classified by their degree. Such a map is equivalent to a section of the trivial $n$-sphere bundle over $M$. A generalization of the Hopf theorem is obtained for sections of nontrivial oriented $n$-sphere bundles over $M$.