Higher Eisenstein elements, higher Eichler formulas and rank of Hecke algebras (Q2225236)

Let \(N\) and \(p\) be primes such that \(p\) divides the numerator of \(\frac{N-1}{12}\). Let \(g_p\) denote the rank of the completion of the Hecke algebra acting on cuspidal modular forms of weight \(2\) and level \(\Gamma_0(N)\) at the \(p\)-maximal Eisenstein ideal. \textit{B. Mazur} asked [Publ. Math., Inst. Hautes Étud. Sci. 47, 33--186 (1977; Zbl 0394.14008)] what can be said about \(g_p\). \textit{L. Merel} [J. Reine Angew. Math. 477, 71--115 (1996; Zbl 0859.11036)] was first to give explicit criterion to know if \(g_p>1\) (for \(p\geq 5\)). The author gives explicit criterion to know if \(g_p>2\) (Theorem 1.2). In order to prove Theorem 1.2 (and much more) he develops the theory of higher Eisenstein elements.