Arithmetic degrees and Zariski dense orbits of cohomologically hyperbolic maps

Abstract

A dominant rational self-map on a projective variety is called $p$-cohomologically hyperbolic if the $p$-th dynamical degree is strictly larger than other dynamical degrees. For such a map defined over $\overline{\mathbb{Q}}$, we study lower bounds of the arithmetic degrees, existence of points with Zariski dense orbit, and finiteness of preperiodic points. In particular, we prove that, if $f$ is an $1$-cohomologically hyperbolic map on a smooth projective variety, then (1) the arithmetic degree of a $\overline{\mathbb{Q}}$-point with generic $f$-orbit is equal to the first dynamical degree of $f$; and (2) there are $\overline{\mathbb{Q}}$-points with generic $f$-orbit. Applying our theorem to the recently constructed rational map with transcendental dynamical degree, we confirm that the arithmetic degree can be transcendental.