The Eisenbud–Evans–Storch theorem establishes that any algebraic variety within an n-dimensional affine space can be defined geometrically by n polynomials. This fundamental result in algebraic geometry reflects the career of Uwe Storch, a German mathematician whose work traversed commutative algebra, analytic geometry, and the complex mechanics of derivations and resultants throughout his professional life in German academia.
Academic Formation and Early Research
Born in 1940 in Staßfurt, Germany, Storch pursued his higher education at the University of Münster and Heidelberg University. During his formative years, he focused on mathematics, physics, and mathematical logic. He completed his doctorate in 1966 under the guidance of Heinrich Behnke, writing a thesis that explored almost factorial rings. This research laid the groundwork for his subsequent focus on commutative algebra.
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Storch attained his Habilitation in Bochum in 1972, a step that facilitated his entry into professorial ranks. In 1974, he accepted a position as a professor at the University of Osnabrück. He later moved to Ruhr University Bochum, where he served as a professor of algebra and geometry from 1981 until his retirement and appointment as emeritus status in 2006.
Contributions to Mathematical Literature
Beyond his specialized research into divisor class groups and resultants, Storch co-authored several significant mathematical textbooks. Working with Günther Scheja, he produced the Lehrbuch der Algebra, originally published in three volumes in 1980 before being expanded into a two-volume series in 1988. He also collaborated with Hartmut Wiebe to publish the four-volume Lehrbuch der Mathematik, establishing a legacy for students in the field.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940, Staßfurt
- Died: 2017, Lanzarote
- Citizenship: Germany
- Primary Fields: Commutative algebra, algebraic geometry, analytic geometry
- Doctoral Supervisor: Heinrich Behnke
- Key Publication: Lehrbuch der Algebra
- Languages: German, English
Questions readers ask
What is the primary contribution of the Eisenbud–Evans–Storch theorem?
The theorem states that every algebraic variety in an n-dimensional affine space can be described geometrically by n polynomials.
Where did Uwe Storch hold academic professorships?
He served as a professor at the University of Osnabrück starting in 1974 and at Ruhr University Bochum from 1981 to 2006.
Achievements
- Held posts at Ruhr University Bochum and Osnabrück University
- Fields: algebra, mathematics and commutative algebra
