R-equivalence on conic bundles of degree 4 (Q5903880): Difference between revisions

Let \(k\) be a field of characteristic zero and \(X\) a smooth proper \(k\)-rational variety. In a previous research J.-J. Sansuc and the first named author had developed a descent theory over \(X\) after the work of Châtelet and Manin. Among other things they raised the following basic question: If \(T\) is a universal torsor over \(X\) with \(T(k)\neq \emptyset\), is \(T\) a \(k\)-rational variety? The main result of the paper under review gives some evidence for the truth of this question. Precisely, the authors prove: Theorem. Any universal torsor \(T\) with \(T(k)\neq \emptyset\) over a relatively minimal conic bundle \(X/P^1_ k\) of degree 4 is a \(k\)-rational variety. - Some consequences of this result are also given.