Factoring polynomials over function fields

Abstract

If K/k is a function field in one variable of positive characteristic, we describe a general algorithm to factor one-variable polynomials with coefficients in K. The algorithm is flexible enough to find factors subject to additional restrictions, e.g., to find all roots that belong to a given finite dimensional k-subspace of K more efficiently. It also provides a deterministic polynomial time irreducibility test in small characteristic. We also discuss some applications.