Algebraic Degree Periodicity in Recurrence Sequences

Abstract

The degree sequence of the algebraic numbers in an algebraic linear recurrence sequence is shown to be virtually periodic. This is proved using the Skolem-Mahler-Lech theorem. It has applications to the degree sequence and the minimal polynomial sequence for exponential sums over finite fields. The degree periodicity also holds for some more complicated non-linear recurrence sequences. We give one example from the iterations of a polynomial map. This depending on the dynamic Mordell-Lang conjecture which has been proved in some cases.