Prime Splitting and Common Index Divisors in Radical Extensions

Abstract

We explicitly describe the splitting of odd integral primes in the radical extension $\mathbb{Q}(\sqrt[n]{a})$, where $x^n-a$ is an irreducible polynomial in $\mathbb{Z}[x]$. Our motivation is to classify common index divisors, the primes whose splitting provides a local obstruction to the existence of a power integral basis for the ring of integers of $\mathbb{Q}(\sqrt[n]{a})$. Among other results, we show that if $p$ is such a prime, even or otherwise, then $p$ divides $n$.

28 pages. Arguments clarified and simplified. Numerous editorial changes made. Comments welcome!