The Puzzling Case of Positive Polynomials: A Vector Space?

In summary, the set of all polynomials with positive coefficients is not a vector space. However, after considering the vector space conditions, it is unclear why it cannot be. The inverse elements of the space must be specified and the field for the vector space should be specified as well. One of the necessary properties for a vector space is that it is closed under scalar multiplication, meaning that the product of any real number and a vector in the space must also be in the space. For example, if v= x+1 is a polynomial with positive coefficients and a= -1 is a number, then the product av must also be in the space.
  • #1
Workout
38
0

Homework Statement


Is the set of all polynomials with positive coefficients a vector space?

It's not.

But after going through the vector space conditions I don't see how it can't be.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
But after going through the vector space conditions I don't see how it can't be.
If you show your work, it is easier to find your error.
Oh, and you have to specify the field for the vector space (probably R).

Edit: Or use the direct hint given above ;).
 
  • #4
One of the properties that a vector space must have is that it is "closed under scalar multiplication". That is, the product of any real number a, and vector v, av is also a number. v= x+ 1 is a "polynomial with positive coefficients" and a= -1 is a number. What is av?
 

FAQ: The Puzzling Case of Positive Polynomials: A Vector Space?

What is the concept of positive polynomials?

Positive polynomials are a type of mathematical function that only takes on positive values for all input values. In other words, the graph of a positive polynomial will never dip below the x-axis. This is in contrast to other types of polynomials, such as quadratic or cubic functions, which can have both positive and negative values.

What is the significance of studying positive polynomials?

Positive polynomials have various applications in mathematics, physics, and engineering. They are used to represent quantities such as energy, temperature, and concentration, which must always be positive. Additionally, positive polynomials are closely related to convex optimization, a powerful tool for solving real-world problems.

What is the vector space of positive polynomials?

The vector space of positive polynomials is a mathematical construct in which all positive polynomials can be represented as linear combinations of a set of basis polynomials. This vector space is infinite-dimensional, meaning that it has an infinite number of basis polynomials, each corresponding to a different degree of the polynomial.

How can the vector space of positive polynomials be used to solve problems?

The vector space of positive polynomials allows for the use of linear algebra techniques to solve problems involving positive polynomials. For example, it can be used to determine if a given polynomial is positive or to find the minimum or maximum value of a positive polynomial over a given interval. These techniques are particularly useful in optimization problems.

Are there any open questions or challenges in the study of positive polynomials?

Yes, there are still many unanswered questions and challenges in the study of positive polynomials. One major challenge is finding efficient algorithms for solving optimization problems involving positive polynomials. Additionally, there is ongoing research on the properties of positive polynomials and their applications in various fields, such as control theory and signal processing.

Back
Top