| We consider algebraic numbers defined by
univariate polynomials over the rationals. In the syntax of Maple, such
numbers are expressed using the RootOf function. This paper defines a
canonical form for RootOf with respect to affine transformations. The
affine shifts of monic irreducible polynomials form a group, and the orbits
of the polynomials can be used to define a canonical form. The canonical
form of the polynomials then defines a canonical form for the corresponding
algebraic numbers. Reducing any RootOf to its canonical form has the advantage
that affine relations between algebraic numbers are readily identified.
More generally, the reduction minimizes the number of algebraic numbers
appearing in a computation, and also allows the Maple indexed RootOf to
be used more easily.
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