Remarks on backward uniqueness of parabolic equations and incompressible Navier-Stokes well-posedness

Abstract

We explain why the theory of Escauriaza, Seregin, and Sverak (Russian Math. Surveys, 2003) on potential finite time singularity in Navier-Stokes solutions must be largely misapprehended. It is found that the proofs of the backward uniqueness theorem for parabolic equations contain technical errors. The stated validity of a theorem for vorticity is established on ill-informed analyses as the solenoidal constraint is not taken into account. There are many cases where parabolic scalings are erroneously applied. We briefly discuss a number of related issues.