Minimal Polynomial

- Mathematics & Logic -
Pure Mathematics Dictionary
The monic polynomial of least degree over the base ring or field that annihilates a given linear operator or algebraic element; i.e., the monic p of minimal degree with p(T)=0.

Minimal Polynomial

- Pure Mathematics -
Algebra Dictionary
The unique monic polynomial of least degree over the base field that annihilates a given algebraic element or linear operator; equivalently the generator of the principal ideal of annihilating polynomials.