Test problems for operator algebras

Abstract

Kaplansky’s test problems, originally formulated for abelian groups, concern the relationship between isomorphism and direct sums. They provide a "reality check" for purported structure theories. The present paper answers Kaplansky’s problems in operator algebraic contexts including unitary equivalence of von Neumann algebras and equivalence of representations of (non self-adjoint) matrix algebras. In particular, it is shown that matrix algebras admitting similar ampliations are themselves similar.