Hilbert metric and quasiconformal mappings

Abstract

We prove a functional identity between the Hilbert metric and the visual angle metric in the unit disk. The proof utilizes the Poincar\'e hyperbolic metric in terms of which both metrics can be expressed. This identity then yields sharp distortion results for quasiregular mappings and analytic functions, expressed in terms of the Hilbert metric. We also prove that Hilbert circles are, in fact, Euclidean ellipses. The proof makes use of computer algebra methods. In particular, Gr\"obner bases are used.