Varieties and algebraic algebras of bounded degree (Q1295634)

The main result is that any proper variety \(V\) of associative algebras over a characteristic zero base field \(F\) is generated by an algebraic algebra of bounded degree over some commutative algebra. Moreover, \(V\) is generated by an algebraic algebra of bounded degree over a field if and only if \(V\) is generated by some finite dimensional algebra. On the other hand, when \(F\) is infinite of positive characteristic, and the algebras in \(V\) satisfy some Engel identity \([y,x,\ldots,x]=0\), then \(V\) is generated by an algebraic algebra of bounded degree over an extension of \(F\). In order to prove these results, the author studies identities with traces for matrix algebras over the Grassmann algebra, and applies general results of \textit{A. R. Kemer} [Ideals of identities of associative algebras, Transl. Math. Monogr. 87 (1991; Zbl 0732.16001)]. Remark: Closely related results on the algebraicity of matrix algebras over the Grassmann algebra were obtained by \textit{J. Szigeti} [Proc. Am. Math. Soc. 125, No. 8, 2245-2254 (1997; Zbl 0888.16011)].