On the spectrum of limit models

Abstract

We study the spectrum of limit models assuming the existence of a nicely behaved independence notion. Under reasonable assumptions, we show that all `long' limit models are isomorphic, and all `short' limit models are non-isomorphic. $\textbf{Theorem.}$ Let $\mathbf{K}$ be a $\aleph_0$-tame abstract elementary class stable in $\lambda \geq \operatorname{LS}(\mathbf{K})$ with amalgamation, joint embedding and no maximal models. Suppose there is an independence relation on the models of size $\lambda$ that satisfies uniqueness, extension, non-forking amalgamation, universal continuity, and $(\geq \kappa)$-local character in a minimal regular $\kappa < \lambda^+$. Suppose $\delta_1, \delta_2 < \lambda^+$ with $\operatorname{cf}(\delta_1) < \operatorname{cf}(\delta_2)$. Then for any $N_1, N_2, M \in \mathbf{K}_\lambda$ where $N_l$ is a $(\lambda, \delta_l)$-limit model over $M$ for $l = 1, 2$, \[N_1 \text{ is isomorphic to } N_2 \text{ over } M \iff \operatorname{cf}(\delta_1) \geq \kappa\] Both implications in the conclusion have improvements. High cofinality limits are isomorphic without the $\aleph_0$-tameness assumption and assuming the independence relation is defined only on high cofinality limit models. Low cofinality limits are non-isomorphic without assuming non-forking amalgamation. We show how our results can be used to study limit models in both abstract settings and in natural examples of abstract elementary classes.