Tensors are used throughout the sciences, especially in solid state physics and quantum information theory. This book brings a geometric perspective to the use of tensors in these areas. It begins with an introduction to the geometry of tensors and provides geometric expositions of the basics of quantum information theory, Strassen's laser method for matrix multiplication, and moment maps in algebraic geometry. It also details several exciting recent developments regarding tensors in general. In particular, it discusses and explains the following material previously only available in the original research papers: (1) Shitov's 2017 refutation of longstanding conjectures of Strassen on rank additivity and Common on symmetric rank; (2) The 2017 Christandl-Vrana-Zuiddam quantum spectral points that bring together quantum information theory, the asymptotic geometry of tensors, matrix multiplication complexity, and moment polytopes in geometric invariant theory; (3) the use of representation theory in quantum information theory, including the solution of the quantum marginal problem; (4) the use of tensor network states in solid state physics, and (5) recent geometric paths towards upper bounds for the complexity of matrix multiplication. Numerous open problems appropriate for graduate students and post-docs are included throughout.

Two central problems in computer science are P vs NP and the complexity of matrix multiplication. The first is also a leading candidate for the greatest unsolved problem in mathematics. The second is of enormous practical and theoretical importance. Algebraic geometry and representation theory provide fertile ground for advancing work on these problems and others in complexity. This introduction to algebraic complexity theory for graduate students and researchers in computer science and mathematics features concrete examples that demonstrate the application of geometric techniques to real world problems. Written by a noted expert in the field, it offers numerous open questions to motivate future research. Complexity theory has rejuvenated classical geometric questions and brought different areas of mathematics together in new ways. This book will show the beautiful, interesting, and important questions that have arisen as a result.