On the spectral theory of surfaces with cusps. (Q4407654)

Let \(M\) be a non-compact Riemann surface. Assume \(M\) has finitely many ends and that each end is diffeomorphic to a product \(S^1\times(0,\infty)\) with a metric \(f^2(s,t)ds^2+dt^2\). Assume the Gauss curvature is pinched \(-b^2\leq K\leq-a^2\); \(M\) is conformally equivalent to a closed surface \(\bar M\) with finitely many points removed. Let \(E\) be a graded Dirac bundle over \(M\) and let \(D\) be the associated graded Dirac operator. Assume there is a parallel \(2\)-form \(S\) with values in the bundle of skew-Hermitian endomorphisms of \(E\) such that the curvature \(R\) of \(E\) satisfies \(R(X,Y)u=KS(X,Y)u\) for all vector fields \(X,Y\) on \(M\) and all sections \(u\) of \(E\); such a bundle is said to be geometric. This class contains all flat bundles and all bundles associated to the Riemannian structure or to the spin structure. The authors analyze the essential spectrum of \(D\); this is localized on the ends of \(M\). If \(D\) is Fredholm, the authors determine the index of \(D^+\) very explicitly. The authors do not impose assumptions on derivatives of the curvature or, respectively, assumptions on the asymptotic behaviour of third or higher derivatives of the metric. For the entire collection see [Zbl 1007.00073].