Associating curves of low genus to infinite nilpotent groups via the zeta function. (Q1885586)

\textit{F. J. Grunewald, D. Segal} and \textit{G. C. Smith} [Invent. Math. 93, No. 1, 185-223 (1988; Zbl 0651.20040)] introduced the notion of a zeta function for an infinite group \(G\) encoding (normal) subgroups of finite index. The zeta functions counting subgroups of finite index in infinite nilpotent groups depend upon the behaviour of some associated system of algebraic varieties on reduction mod \(p\). Further, \textit{M. du Sautoy} [Isr. J. Math. 126, 269-288 (2001; Zbl 0998.20033) and J. Reine Angew. Math. 549, 1-21 (2002; Zbl 1001.20032)] constructed a group whose local zeta function was determined by the number of points on the elliptic curve \(E\colon Y^2=X^3-X\). In this work the author generalises du Sautoy's construction to define a class of groups whose local zeta functions are dependent upon the number of points on the reduction of a given elliptic curve with a rational point. He also constructs a class of groups that behave the same way in relation to any curve of genus 2 with a rational point. The author ends with a discussion of problems arising from this work.