Ultrametrics, Banach's fixed point theorem and the Riordan group

Abstract

We interpret the reciprocation process in K[[x]] as a fixed point problem related to contractive functions for certain adequate ultrametric spaces. This allows us to give a dynamical interpretation of certain arithmetical triangles introduced herein. Later we recognize, as it special case of our construction, the so-called Riordan group which is a device used in combinatorics. In this manner we give a new and alternative way to construct the proper Riordan arrays. Our point of view allows us to give a natural metric on the Riordan group turning this group into a topological group. This construction allows us to recognize a countable descending chain of normal subgroups.