Zeta function (operator)

The zeta function of a mathematical operator 𝒪 is a function defined as

ζ𝒪(s)=tr⁡𝒪−s

for those values of s where this expression exists, and as an analytic continuation of this function for other values of s. Here "tr" denotes a functional trace.

The zeta function may also be expressible as a spectral zeta function in terms of the eigenvalues λi of the operator 𝒪 by

ζ𝒪(s)=∑iλi−s.

It is used in giving a rigorous definition to the functional determinant of an operator, which is given by

det⁡𝒪:=e−ζ'𝒪(0).


The Minakshisundaram–Pleijel zeta function is an example, when the operator is the Laplacian of a compact Riemannian manifold.

One of the most important motivations for Arakelov theory is the zeta functions for operators with the method of heat kernels generalized algebro-geometrically.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Lapidus & van Frankenhuijsen (2006) p.23
  2. ↑ Soulé, C. (1992), Lectures on Arakelov geometry, Cambridge Studies in Advanced Mathematics, vol. 33, with the collaboration of D. Abramovich, J.-F. Burnol and J. Kramer, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. viii+177, ISBN 0-521-41669-8, MR 1208731