This chapter focuses on the construction as well as the algebraic and dynamical properties of pseudo-Anosov homeomorphisms. It first presents five different constructions of pseudo-Anosov mapping classes: branched covers, constructions via Dehn twists, homological criterion, Kra's construction, and a construction for braid groups. It then proves a few fundamental facts concerning stretch factors of pseudo-Anosov homeomorphisms, focusing on the theorem that pseudo-Anosov stretch factors are algebraic integers. It also considers the spectrum of pseudo-Anosov stretch factors, along with the special properties of those measured foliations that are the stable (or unstable) foliations of some pseudo-Anosov homeomorphism. Finally, it describes the orbits of a pseudo-Anosov homeomorphism as well as lengths of curves and intersection numbers under iteration.
Generalized Dehn twists on surfaces and homology cylinders
