Recent breakthrough methods \cite{gggz,joux,bgjt} on computing discrete
logarithms in small characteristic finite fields share an interesting feature
in common with the earlier medium prime function field sieve method \cite{jl}.
To solve discrete logarithms in a finite extension of a finite field \F, a
polynomial h(x) \in \F[x] of a special form is constructed with an
irreducible factor g(x) \in \F[x] of the desired degree. The special form of
h(x) is then exploited in generating multiplicative relations that hold in
the residue class ring \F[x]/h(x)\F[x] hence also in the target residue class
field \F[x]/g(x)\F[x]. An interesting question in this context and addressed
in this paper is: when and how does a set of relations on the residue class
ring determine the discrete logarithms in the finite fields contained in it? We
give necessary and sufficient conditions for a set of relations on the residue
class ring to determine discrete logarithms in the finite fields contained in
it. We also present efficient algorithms to derive discrete logarithms from the
relations when the conditions are met. The derived necessary conditions allow
us to clearly identify structural obstructions intrinsic to the special
polynomial h(x) in each of the aforementioned methods, and propose
modifications to the selection of h(x) so as to avoid obstructions.Comment: arXiv admin note: substantial text overlap with arXiv:1312.167