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The classification work [5], [8] left unsettled only those anomalous isoparametric hypersurfaces with four principal curvatures and multiplicity pair {4, 5}, {6, 9}, or {7, 8} in the sphere. By systematically exploring the ideal theory in commutative algebra in conjunction with the geometry of isoparametric hypersurfaces, we show that an isoparametric hypersurface with four principal curvatures and multiplicities {4, 5} in S19 is homogeneous, and, moreover, an isoparametric hypersurface with four principal curvatures and multiplicities {6, 9} in S31 is either the inhomogeneous one constructed by Ferus, Karcher, and M¨unzner, or the one that is homogeneous. This classification reveals the striking resemblance between these two rather different types of isoparametric hypersurfaces in the homogeneous category, even though the one with multiplicities {6, 9} is of the type constructed by Ferus, Karcher, and M¨unzner and the one with multiplicities {4, 5} stands alone. The quaternion and the octonion algebras play a fundamental role in their geometric structures. A unifying theme in [5], [8], and the present sequel to them is Serre’s criterion of normal varieties. Its technical side pertinent to our situation that we developed in [5], [8] and extend in this sequel is instrumental. The classification leaves only the case of multiplicity pair {7, 8} open.

We consider a 1-parameter family of strictly convex hypersurfaces in Rn+1 moving with speed −Kαν, where ν denotes the outward-pointing unit normal vector and α⩾1/(n+2). For α>1/(n+2), we show that the flow converges to a round sphere after rescaling. In the affine invariant case α=1/(n+2), our arguments give an alternative proof of the fact that the flow converges to an ellipsoid after rescaling.

The paper deals with a variational approach of the subRiemannian geometry from the point of view of Hamilton-Jacobi and Hamiltonian formalism. We present a discussion of geodesics from the point of view of both formalisms, and prove that the normal geodesics are locally length-minimizing horizontal curves.

Ricci flow deforms the Riemannian metric proportionally to the curvature, such that the curvature evolves according to a heat diffusion process and eventually becomes constant everywhere. Ricci flow has demonstrated its great potential by solving various problems in many fields, which can be hardly handled by alternative methods so far.