On algebraic surfaces of general type with negative c2

Abstract

We prove that for any prime number $p\ge 3$, there exists a positive number $κ_p$ such that $χ(\mathcal{O}_X)\ge κ_pc_1^2$ holds true for all algebraic surfaces $X$ of general type in characteristic $p$. In particular, $χ(\mathcal{O}_X)>0$. This answers a question of N. Shepherd-Barron when $p\ge 3$.

29 pages, with a correction of typos to the first version