An algorithm for constructing Gröbner bases from characteristic sets and its application to geometry (Q915799)

A prime ideal in a polynomial ring can be given by a characteristic set [\textit{R. F. Ritt}, ``Differential algebra'', Am. Math. Soc. Coll. Publ. 33 (1950; Zbl 0037.18402)]. A new algorithm is presented for transforming a characteristic set into a Gröbner basis. This algorithm compares favorably to those previously known, one by Ritt himself and another due to A. K. Rody. Examples of how this algorithm applies to elementary geometry theorem proving are supplied.