Hermitian K-theory and 2-regularity for totally real number fields

Abstract

We completely determine the 2-primary torsion subgroups of the hermitian K-groups of rings of 2-integers in totally real 2-regular number fields. The result is almost periodic with period 8. Moreover, the 2-regular case is precisely the class of totally real number fields that have homotopy cartesian “Bökstedt square”, relating the K-theory of the 2-integers to that of the fields of real and complex numbers and finite fields. We also identify the homotopy fibers of the forgetful and hyperbolic maps relating hermitian and algebraic K-theory. The result is then exactly periodic of period 8 in the orthogonal case. In both the orthogonal and symplectic cases, we prove a 2-primary hermitian homotopy limit conjecture for these rings.