Arithmetic differential equations

Alexandru Buium0821838628, 9780821838624

This monograph contains exciting original mathematics that will inspire new directions of research in algebraic geometry. Developed here is an arithmetic analog of the theory of ordinary differential equations, where functions are replaced by integer numbers, the derivative operator is replaced by a “”Fermat quotient operator””, and differential equations (viewed as functions on jet spaces) are replaced by “”arithmetic differential equations””. The main application of this theory concerns the construction and study of quotients of algebraic curves by correspondences with infinite orbits. Any such quotient reduces to a point in algebraic geometry. But many of the above quotients cease to be trivial (and become quite interesting) if one enlarges algebraic geometry by using arithmetic differential equations in place of algebraic equations. This book, in part, follows a series of papers written by the author. However, a substantial amount of the material has never been published before. For most of the book, the only prerequisites are the basic facts of algebraic geometry and algebraic number theory. It is suitable for graduate students and researchers interested in algebraic geometry and number theory.