On a conjecture of Pach-Spencer-Tóth for graph crossing numbers

Abstract: The crossing number of a graph $G$ denotes the minimum number of crossings in any planar drawing of $G$. In this short note, we confirm a long-standing conjecture posed by Pach, Spencer, and T\'oth over 25 years ago, establishing an optimal lower bound on the crossing number of graphs that satisfy some monotone properties. Furthermore, we address a related open problem introduced by Pach and T\'oth in 2000, which explores the interplay between the crossing number of a graph, its degree sequence, and its bisection width.