Tensor and convolution direct image of $\ell$-adic sheaves

Abstract: Given a Galois \'etale map of varieties $\pi:Y\to X$ and an $\ell$-adic sheaf or derived category object $P\in D^b_c(Y,{\mathbb Q}\ell)$, we study two cohomological operations: the tensor direct image and (in the case of perverse sheaves) the convolution direct image, which give objects of $D^b_c(X,{\mathbb Q}\ell)$, and can be used to improve the estimates on some partial exponential sums and the number of rational points on certain varieties.