Special values of the gamma function at CM points (Q2017993)

Let \(D\), \(k\), \(q\), \(a\) be rational integers with \(D\), \(q\) positive and \(a\not=0\). Set \(\alpha=k+\frac{ai\sqrt{D}}{q}\). The authors produce explicit formulae for the values \(|\Gamma(\alpha)|\) and \(|\Gamma(\alpha+\frac{1}{2})|\) of the Euler Gamma function at these Gaussian rational points. Using Nesterenko's Theorem [\textit{Yu. V. Nesterenko}, Sb. Math. 187, No. 9, 1319--1348 (1996); translation from Mat. Sb. 187, No. 9, 65--96 (1996; Zbl 0898.11031)], they deduce the transcendence of these numbers. Next, they investigate infinite products \(\prod_{n=1}^\infty \frac{A(n)}{n^t}\) for \(A(z)\) a monic polynomial of degree \(t\geq 2\) with algebraic coefficients. They relate these numbers to values of the Gamma function and derive transcendence results for certain polynomials \(A\) having vanishing sum of roots. Further, they investigate values of the digamma and polygamma functions. Finally, they explore implications of the conjectures of Gel'fond and Schneider on the algebraic independence of algebraic powers of algebraic numbers. In some cases they obtain unconditional transcendence results; for instance, if \(\alpha\) is an irrational algebraic number with real part \(0\) or \(1/2\), then \(\Gamma(\alpha)/\sqrt{\pi}\) is transcendental.