The scattering matrix for 0th order pseudodifferential operators

Abstract

We use microlocal radial estimates to prove the full limiting absorption principle for $P$, a self-adjoint 0th order pseudodifferential operator satisfying hyperbolic dynamical assumptions as of Colin de Verdi\`ere and Saint-Raymond. We define the scattering matrix for $P-\omega$ with generic $\omega \in \mathbb R$ and show that the scattering matrix extends to a unitary operator on appropriate $L^2$ spaces. After conjugation with natural reference operators, the scattering matrix becomes a $0$th order Fourier integral operator with a canonical relation associated to the bicharacteristics of $P-\omega$. The operator $P$ gives a microlocal model of internal waves in stratified fluids as illustrated in the paper of Colin de Verdi\`ere and Saint-Raymond.