Partial fraction decompositions on hyperplane arrangements

Abstract: We initiate the study of partial fraction decompositions (PFDs) in several variables using tools from commutative algebra. We give criteria for when a rational function with poles on a hyperplane arrangement has a desirable PFD. Our criteria are obtained by examining the primary decomposition of ideals coming from hyperplane arrangements. We then present an algorithm for finding a PFD that satisfies properties desired by physicists, and demonstrate the effectiveness of this algorithm for computing large examples coming from Feynman integrals.