Let $f({\bf x})\equiv f(x_1,x_2,\ldots,x_n)$ is a function of $n$ real variables ${\bf x}=(x_1,x_2,\ldots,x_n)$. The Taylor expansion of $f({\bf x})$ is about a local ${\bf x}^0=(x_1^0,x_2^0,\ldots,x_n^0)$, reads, $$f({\bf x})=f({\bf x}^0)+\frac{1}{2!}\sum_i\sum_j\left(\frac{\partial^2 f}{\partial x_i\partial x_j}\right)_{{\bf x}={\bf x}^0}\Delta x_i\Delta x_j+\ldots$$ where $\Delta x_i=(x_i-x_i^0)$.
Defining $$M_{ij}\equiv\left(\frac{\partial^2 f}{\partial x_i\partial x_j}\right)_{{\bf x}^0}\geq 0,$$
and after a little bit of manipulation, we find that $$\Delta f\equiv f({\bf x})-f({\bf x}^0)\approx \frac{1}{2}\sum_j\sum_j M_{ij}\Delta x_i \Delta x_j=\frac{1}{2}(\Delta {\rm x})^TM(\Delta{\bf x})=\frac{1}{2}\sum_{r=1}^{n}\lambda_r a_r^2$$ where $\lambda_r$ are the eigenvalues of the real symmetric matrix $M$, and therefore, real. $a_r^2$ are real positive constants.
Now, the condition of minimum requires $\Delta f>0$. This is certainly satisfied if all eigenvalues of positive. But this is also satisfied if some of the eigenvalues are zero and others are positive. But this book by Riley, Hobson, and Bence says that $\lambda_r$ must be positive. Is there a mistake in the book or do I get it wrong? See the fourth line from the top, page 167.
https://www.astrosen.unam.mx/~aceves/Metodos/ebooks/riley_hobson_bence.pdf

Stationary points may be divided into three categories and an example of each is shown in figure 2.2. Point B is said to be a minimum since the function increases in value in both directions away from it. Point Q is said to be a maximum since the function decreases in both directions away from it. Note that B is not the overall minimum value of the function and Q is not the overall maximum; rather, they are a local minimum and a local maximum.
– 1mdlrjcmed Aug 02 '23 at 17:59