CHARACTERISTIC POLYNOMIAL Meaning and
Definition
-
The characteristic polynomial is a concept most commonly used in linear algebra and is associated with square matrices. It refers to a polynomial equation that is constructed using the entries of a square matrix and is used to determine various properties and features of the matrix.
More specifically, the characteristic polynomial of a square matrix A is defined as the polynomial equation det(A - λI) = 0, where det represents the determinant operator, λ is an unknown and serves as the variable, and I is the identity matrix of the same size as A.
The characteristic polynomial provides important information about the matrix, such as its eigenvalues, which are the solutions to the equation. The eigenvalues are often crucial in analyzing and understanding the behavior and properties of the matrix. Moreover, the characteristic polynomial aids in determining other characteristics of the matrix, such as its trace and determinant.
The characteristic polynomial plays a fundamental role in diagonalization, a process where a matrix is transformed into a diagonal matrix using the eigenvalues as entries. This technique is often used in solving systems of linear differential equations, finding the exponential of a matrix, and exploring the dynamics of linear transformations.
In summary, the characteristic polynomial of a square matrix is a polynomial equation obtained by subtracting the variable times the identity matrix from the matrix and taking its determinant. This polynomial captures important information about the matrix, such as its eigenvalues, and is widely employed in various areas of linear algebra and matrix analysis.
Common Misspellings for CHARACTERISTIC POLYNOMIAL
- xharacteristic polynomial
- vharacteristic polynomial
- fharacteristic polynomial
- dharacteristic polynomial
- cgaracteristic polynomial
- cbaracteristic polynomial
- cnaracteristic polynomial
- cjaracteristic polynomial
- cuaracteristic polynomial
- cyaracteristic polynomial
- chzracteristic polynomial
- chsracteristic polynomial
- chwracteristic polynomial
- chqracteristic polynomial
- chaeacteristic polynomial
- chadacteristic polynomial
- chafacteristic polynomial
- chatacteristic polynomial
- cha5acteristic polynomial
- cha4acteristic polynomial
Etymology of CHARACTERISTIC POLYNOMIAL
The word "characteristic" in "characteristic polynomial" comes from the Latin word "characteristicus", which in turn is derived from the Greek word "charaktēristikos". Both words refer to a mark, a distinctive feature, or a distinguishing trait.
The word "polynomial" is derived from the Latin words "poly" meaning "many" and "nomius" meaning "term" or "law". In mathematics, a polynomial is an expression consisting of variables, coefficients, and exponentiation.
Therefore, the term "characteristic polynomial" refers to a polynomial that captures or represents the distinguishing features or traits of a particular mathematical object, such as a matrix or a differential equation. It is often used to find important properties or solutions related to the object it characterizes.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
