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I have a given monic polynomial with an algebraic root $\alpha$. How can I find the minimal polynomial with a root of $\sqrt{1-\alpha^2}$ ?

Randall
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1 Answers1

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If the given monic polynomial is $f$, then $p=f(\sqrt{1-x^2})f(-\sqrt{1-x^2})$ has $\sqrt{1-\alpha^2}$ as a zero, so the answer will be $p$ or an irreducible factor of $p$.

Gerry Myerson
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  • Thanks! This is exactly what I needed and I was able to use GP-Pari's factoring of the monic to reduce the degree of p. I now have my two polynomials! – Randall Feb 20 '13 at 07:00