Tensor generators on schemes and stacks

Abstract

We show that an algebraic stack with affine stabilizer groups satisfies the resolution property if and only if it is a quotient of a quasi-affine scheme by the action of the general linear group, or equivalently, if there exists a vector bundle whose associated frame bundle has quasi-affine total space. This generalizes a result of B. Totaro to non-normal and non-noetherian schemes and algebraic stacks. Also, we show that the vector bundle induces such a quotient structure if and only if it is a tensor generator in the category of quasi-coherent sheaves.