Studies in multiplicative solutions to linear differential equations

Abstract

SynopsisGiven an ordinary linear differential equation whose singularities are isolated, a solution is called multiplicative for a closed path C if, when continued analytically along C, it returns to its starting-point merely multiplied by a constant. This paper first classifies such paths into three types, then investigates combinations of two such paths, in which a number of qualitatively different situations can arise. A key result is also given relating to a three-path combination. There are applications to special functions and Floquet theory for periodic equations.