2014/02/07 by Simon Brendle, Brendle, S.
Mathematics · #Algebraic Geometry and Number Theory #Analysis of PDEs (math.AP) #Differential Geometry (math.DG) #FOS: Mathematics #Geometric Analysis and Curvature Flows #Geometry and complex manifolds
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.1402.1748
openalex publication_date 2014/02/07 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
The maximum principle is one of the most important tools in the analysis of geometric partial differential equations. Traditionally, the maximum principle is applied to a scalar function defined on a manifold, but in recent years more sophisticated versions have emerged. One particularly interesting direction involves applying the maximum principle to functions that depend on a pair of points. This technique is particularly effective in the study of problems involving embedded surfaces. In this survey, we first describe some foundational results on curve shortening flow and mean curvature flow. We then describe Huisken's work on the curve shortening flow where the method of two-point functions was introduced. Finally, we discuss several recent applications of that technique. These include sharp estimates for mean curvature flow, as well as the proof of Lawson's 1970 conjecture concerning minimal tori in S3.