Minimal representations and algebraic relations for single nested products (Q2217201)

This paper details on the theory behind an algorithm for computing minimal representations of certain product expressions in the context of difference ring theory. The fundamental problem is to represent products in a transcendental basis, where not only hypergeometric products are considered, but general expressions from difference rings. A framework for solving this problem is described, and the underlying theory is explicated. In particular, it is shown that the results produced by the algorithm are optimal in a certain sense (minimal number of products and minimal order of the involved roots of unity). Among many other techniques, the Smith normal form of integer matrices plays a crucial role in the computations. The algorithm is implemented in a Mathematica package called NestedProducts.