On the classification of isoparametric hypersurfaces with four distinct curvatures in spheres (Q2389131)

A new proof is given for a classification result of \textit{T. Cecil, Q. Chi} and \textit{G. Jensen} [Ann. Math. 166, No.~1, 1--76 (2007; Zbl 1143.53058)]. An isoparametric hypersurface with four principal curvatures in a sphere is of Clifford type provided that the multiplicities \(m_1,m_2\) of the principal curvatures satisfy the inequality \(m_2\geq 2m_1-1\). This inequality is satisfied for all but five possible pairs \((m_1,m_2)\) with \(m_1\leq m_2\). This new proof implies that for \((m_1,m_2)\neq(1,1)\) the Clifford system may be chosen in such a way that the associated quadratic forms vanish on the higher-dimensional of the two focal manifolds. For the remaining five possible pairs \((m_1,m_2)\) with \(m_1\leq m_2\) this stronger form of the considered result is incorrect: for the three pairs \((3,4)\), \((6,9)\), and \((7,8)\) there are examples of Clifford type such that the associated quadratic forms necessarily vanish on the lower-dimensional of the two focal manifolds, and for the two pairs \((2,2)\) and \((4,5)\) there exist homogeneous examples that are not of Clifford type.