Extending Geometric Singular Perturbation Theory to Nonhyperbolic Points - Fold and Canard Points in Two Dimensions

The geometric approach to singular perturbation problems is based on powerful methods from dynamical systems theory. These techniques have been very successful in the case of normally hyperbolic critical manifolds. However, at points where normal hyperbolicity fails, the well-developed geometric theory does not apply. We present a method based on blow-up techniques, which leads to a rigorous geometric analysis of these problems. A detailed analysis of the extension of slow manifolds past fold points and canard points in planar systems is given. The efficient use of various charts is emphasized. AMS subject classifications. 34E15, 34E05, 34E20, 34C20, 34C26, 34C30, 34C40, 37C10