Fat Points in P^1 x P^1 and their Hilbert Functions
Abstract
Description
We study the Hilbert functions of fat points in P^1 x P^1. If Z is an arbitrary fat point subscheme of P^1 x P^1, then it can be shown that for every i and j the values of the Hilbert function H_Z(l,j) and H_Z(i,l) eventually become constant for l >> 0. We show how to determine these eventual values by using only the multiplicities of the points, and the relative positions of the points in P^1 x P^1. This enables us to compute all but a finite number values of H_Z without using the coordinates of points. We also characterize the ACM fat points schemes using our description of the eventual behaviour. In fact, in the case that Z is ACM, then the entire Hilbert function and its minimal free resolution depend solely on knowing the eventual values of the Hilbert function.
23 Pages. Revised version to appear in Can. J. Math
23 Pages. Revised version to appear in Can. J. Math