Algebraic Number Fields

Book excerpt: This text presents the basic information about finite dimensional extension fields of the rational numbers, algebraic number fields, and the rings of algebraic integers in them. The important theorems regarding the units of the ring of integers and the class group are proved and illustrated with many examples given in detail. The completion of an algebraic number field at a valuation is discussed in detail and then used to provide economical proofs of global results. The book contains many concrete examples illustrating the computation of class groups, class numbers, and Hilbert class fields. Exercises are provided to indicate applications of the general theory.