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Tropical Algebraic Geometry
Tropical geometry is algebraic geometry over the semifield of tropical numbers, i.e., the real numbers and negative infinity enhanced with the (max,+)-arithmetics. Geometrically, tropical varieties are much simpler than their classical counterparts. Yet they carry information about complex and real varieties.These notes present an introduction to tropical geometry and contain some applications of this rapidly developing and attractive subject.
Enumerative Invariants in Algebraic Geometry and String Theory : Lectures given at the C.I.M.E. Summer School held in Cetraro, Italy June 6–11, 2005
Starting in the middle of the 80s, there has been a growing and fruitful interaction between algebraic geometry and certain areas of theoretical high-energy physics, especially the various versions of string theory. Physical heuristics have provided inspiration for new mathematical definitions (such as that of Gromov-Witten invariants) leading in turn to the solution of problems in enumerative geometry. Conversely, the availability of mathematically rigorous definitions and theorems has benefited the physics research by providing the required evidence in fields where experimental testing seems problematic. The aim of this volume, a result of the CIME Summer School held in Cetraro, Italy, in 2005, is to cover part of the most recent and interesting findings in this subject.
An Invitation to Quantum Cohomology : Kontsevich's Formula for Rational Plane Curves
This book is an elementary introduction to stable maps and quantum cohomology, starting with an introduction to stable pointed curves, and culminating with a proof of the associativity of the quantum product. The viewpoint is mostly that of enumerative geometry, and the red thread of the exposition is the problem of counting rational plane curves. Kontsevich's formula is initially established in the framework of classical enumerative geometry, then as a statement about reconstruction for Gromov–Witten invariants, and finally, using generating functions, as a special case of the associativity of the quantum product.
