Multivariable Invariants of Colored Links Generalizing the Alexander Polynomial

Abstract

We discuss multivariable invariants of colored links associated with the $N$-dimensional root of unity representation of the quantum group. The invariants for $N>2$ are generalizations of the multi-variable Alexander polynomial. The invariants vanish for disconnected links. We review the definition of the invariants through (1,1)-tangles. When $(N,3)=1$ and $N$ is odd, the invariant does not vanish for the parallel link (cable) of the knot $3_1$, while the Alexander polynomial vanishes for the cable link.