A classification of finite rings by zero divisors (Q1073146)

Let z(R) be the set of zero divisors in a finite ring R and J(R) the Jacobson radical of R. In this impressive paper motivated by earlier work of the second author [Linear Algebra Appl. 66, 195-197 (1985; Zbl 0589.16016)] the authors introduce the index \(\kappa (R)=\log | z(R)| /\log | R|\) of R and classify finite rings as follows: \(\kappa (R)=0\) iff R is a field, otherwise \(1/2\leq \kappa (R)\leq 1\); \(\kappa (R)=1\) iff \(1\not\in R\); if \(\kappa (R)=\) or 2/3 then R is local; if \(1/2<\kappa (R)<2/3\) R is a direct sum of two fields. The rings with \(2/3<\kappa (R)<3/4\) are fully described. If \(R=M_ n(GF)\) then \(\kappa (R)>3/4\) and is transcendental.