Rational points on elliptic curves

Abstract

We consider the structure of rational points on elliptic curves in Weierstrass form. Let x(P)=A_P/B_P^2 denote the $x$-coordinate of the rational point P then we consider when B_P can be a prime power. Using Faltings' Theorem we show that for a fixed power greater than 1, there are only finitely many rational points. Where descent via an isogeny is possible we show, with no restrictions on the power, that there are only finitely many rational points, these points are bounded in number in an explicit fashion, and that they are effectively computable.

14 pages many changes made from first submission