Pseudo-Anosov Flows: A Plane Approach

Abstract

In this text we (re)-tell the theory of pseudo-Anosov flows on 3-manifolds with the orbit space as the central character; via a streamlined framework called {\em Anosov-like group actions}. This brings a simplified and unified perspective, and allows for the import of tools from 1- and 2-dimensional topological dynamics. In so doing, we are able to give a relatively efficient presentation (or re-presentation) of foundational results in the field which appeared over several decades and many papers. We hope that the reader, whether a beginning or more advanced topologist or dynamicist, finds this a welcoming invitation to the rich theory of pseudo-Anosov flows.