An algorithm to compute the invariant ring of a \(G_ a\)-action on an affine variety (Q1329182)

An algorithm is given which computes the invariants of an arbitrary \(G_ a\) action on an affine variety defined over a field of characteristic zero, provided the ring of invariants is finitely generated. If it is not finitely generated then the algorithm does not terminate. The ring of invariants of a \(G_ a\) action is equal to the kernel of a locally nilpotent derivation, the infinitesimal generator of the action. The algorithm in fact produces a set of generators for this kernel, when it is finitely generated. Gröbner bases are the principal tool.