Separable and tree-like asymptotic cones of groups

Using methods from nonstandard analysis, we will discuss which metric spaces can be realized as asymptotic cones. Applying the results we will find in the context of groups, we will prove that a group with "a few" separable asymptotic cones is virtually nilpotent, and we will classify the real trees appearing as asymptotic cones of (not necessarily hyperbolic) groups.Comment: The hypothesis of Theorem 1.2 had to be strengthene

Asymptotic cones of finitely presented groups

Let G be a connected semisimple Lie group with at least one absolutely simple factor S such that R-rank(S) is at least 2, and let $\Gamma$ be a uniform lattice in G. (a) If $CH$ holds, then $\Gamma$ has a unique asymptotic cone up to homeomorphism. (b) If $CH$ fails, then $\Gamma$ has $2^{2^{\omega}}$ asymptotic cones up to homeomorphism.Comment: To appear in Advances in Mathematic