Decomposition algorithms for tensors and polynomials

Abstract

We give algorithms to compute decompositions of a given polynomial, or more generally mixed tensor, as sum of rank one tensors, and to establish whether such a decomposition is unique. In particular, we present methods to compute the decomposition of a general plane quintic in seven powers, and of a general space cubic in five powers; the two decompositions of a general plane sextic of rank nine, and the five decompositions of a general plane septic. Furthermore, we give Magma implementations of all our algorithms.