Matrix coefficient realization theory of noncommutative rational functions

Of special interest are the minimal realizations, which compensate the absence of a canonical form for noncommutative rational functions. The non-minimality of a realization is assessed by obstruction modules associated with it; they enable us to devise an efficient method for obtaining minimal realizations. With them we describe the stable extended domain of a noncommutative rational function and define a numerical invariant that measures its complexity. Using these results we determine concrete size bounds for rational identity testing, construct minimal symmetric realizations and prove an effective local-global principle for linear dependence of noncommutative rational functions.