Solution

ID: past-exam-of-the-mathematics-course-of-the-university-of-cambridge/2002/iii/paper-19/1/b/solution

False. The zero polynomial is already a counterexample. The Jones polynomial evaluation at one of a nonempty link with components is
To prove this, specialize the Jones polynomial skein relation at : switching a crossing preserves the value. Switch crossings until the diagram is an unlink without changing its component count. The Kauffman bracket loop rule, equivalently the Jones polynomial of a split union, gives the displayed evaluation. Hence arbitrary Laurent polynomials cannot occur.

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