0
$\begingroup$

Is there a classification of smooth projective curves of genus $0$ over $\mathbb{Q}$?

I know that if the curve has a rational point, then it is isomorphic to $\mathbb{P}^1$.

The curve must embed as a degree $2$ curve in $\mathbb{P}^2$, so it has a point over some quadratic extension of $\mathbb{Q}$. This means the curve is a quadratic twist of $\mathbb{P}^1$.

$\endgroup$
4
  • $\begingroup$ Doesn't Cassels say in his book on elliptic curves: "Fact. A genus 0 curve is equivalent to a line or conic"? $\endgroup$ Nov 13, 2018 at 13:07
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Your classification is correct. Are you asking for a stronger classification in some sense? $\endgroup$ Nov 13, 2018 at 14:57
  • $\begingroup$ I would like a list of isomorphism classes of curves. I know each curve can be embedded as a conic in $\mathbb{P}^2$, but it isn't obvious (to me, at least) when two conics are isomorphic. $\endgroup$
    – User
    Nov 13, 2018 at 16:30
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ These kind of varieties are called Brauer-Severi varieties. The question is equivalent to asking for a classification of quadratic forms in three variables over $\mathbb{Q}$. I am not sure how useful is this for you. $\endgroup$
    – random123
    Nov 15, 2018 at 8:01

0

You must log in to answer this question.

Browse other questions tagged .