Residual properties of free groups II

Abstract

In this paper it is proved that non-abelian free groups are residually (x, y | xm = 1, yn = 1, xk = yh} if and only if min{(m, k), (n, h)} is greater than 1, and not both of (m, k) and (n, h) are 2 (where 0 is taken as greater than any natural number). The proof makes use of a result, possibly of independent interest, concerning the existence of certain automorphisms of the free group of rank two. A useful criterion which enables one to prove that non-abelian free groups are residually G for a large number of groups G is also given.