Interpolation and extrapolation of strictly singular operators between L_p spaces

We study the interpolation and extrapolation properties of strictly singular operators between different $L_p$ spaces. To this end, the structure of strictly singular non-compact operators between $L_p-L_q$ spaces is analyzed. Among other things, we clarify the relation between strict singularity and the $L$-characteristic set of an operator. In particular, Krasnoselskii's interpolation theorem for compact operators is extended to the class of strictly singular operators.