Linear series on semistable curves

TL;DR

This paper investigates the dimension of global sections of line bundles on semistable curves, confirming classical theorems in specific cases and applying results to hyperelliptic curves and plane quintics.

Contribution

It extends classical theorems of Riemann and Clifford to semistable curves under various conditions, providing sharp bounds and applications.

Findings

Riemann's theorem holds for semistable curves.

Clifford's theorem is valid in specific cases such as two components or certain degrees.

Applications include descriptions of hyperelliptic curves and plane quintics.

Abstract

The dimension of spaces of global sections for line bundles on semistable curves parametrized by the compactified Picard scheme is studied. The theorem of Riemann is shown to hold. The theorem of Clifford is shown to hold in the following cases: the curve has two components; the curve is any semistable curve and the degree is either 0 or 2g-2; the curve is stable, free from separating nodes, and the degree is at most 4. These results are all shown to be sharp. Applications to the Clifford index, to the combinatorial description of hyperelliptic curves, and to plane quintics are given.