On quaternion algebras split by a given extension, Clifford algebras and hyperelliptic curves (Q2199664)

The present article studies the representations of degree 1 and 2 for generic algebras, associated with the decompositions of even-dimensional monic separable polynomials. In particular, it is shown that representations of degree 2 factor through the Clifford algebra of some quadratic form thus obtaining a description of quaternion algebras that are split by the étale algebra defined by the function field on a hyperelliptic curve. The content is rather technical and laid out in a rigorous manner. After a brief introduction explaining previous research on the topic, the authors provide a detailed review on Clifford algebras and representations from a perspective suitable for the purpose of the following exposition. Next, in Sections five and six the quaternion splitting by étale algebras and the algebra of a hyperelliptic curve are explained, respectively. In the final section, the authors focus on the quaternion splitting by function fields of such curves. As already mentioned, the text is rather specific, seemingly aimed for specialists, however, it is consistent in terms of definitions, theorems and proofs, so mathematicians with general curiosity may also be able to learn a lot from it.