On a characterization of algebraic ruled surfaces (Q801992)

\textit{D. Gallarati} proved [cf. Atti. Acad. Naz. Lincei, VIII. Ser., Rend., Cl. Sci. Fis. Mat. Natur. 21, 55-56 (1956; Zbl 0072.162)] that a smooth complex projective surface X in \(P^ m\) whose degree is equal to its class (= degree of the dual variety) must be ruled. The present paper deals with surfaces for which degree \(=\) class in characteristic \(p\geq 0\). For \(p=0\) Gallarati's result is reproved while for \(p>0\) one finds that either X is ruled or the Euler characteristic of X is negative; so the problem of describing X is reduced to a conjecture of M. Raynaud [cf. \textit{W. E. Lang}, Am. J. Math. 102, 511-516 (1980; see the preceding review.].