arXiv subjects
Publications and source records attributed to David Metzler.
We review the basic definition of a stack and apply it to the topological and smooth settings. We then address two subtleties of the theory: the correct definition of a ``stack over a stack'' and the distinction between small stacks (which are algebraic objects) and large stacks (which are generalized spaces).
It is well-known that an effective orbifold M (one for which the local stabilizer groups act effectively) can be presented as a quotient of a smooth manifold P by a locally free action of a compact lie group K. We use the language of groupoids to provide a partial answer to the question of whether a noneffective orbifold can be so presented. We also note some connections to stacks and gerbes.