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Sturm's Method in Counting Roots of Random Polynomial Equations

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Abstract

The problem of finding the probability distribution of the number of zeros in some real interval of a random polynomial whose coefficients have a given continuous joint density function is considered. An algorithm which enables one to express this probability as a multiple integral is presented. Formulas for the number of zeros of random quadratic polynomials and random polynomials of higher order, some coefficients of which are non-random and equal to zero, are derived via use of the algorithm. Finally, the applicability of these formulas in numerical calculations is illustrated.

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Correspondence to Kenneth J. Hochberg.

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Shmerling, E., Hochberg, K.J. Sturm's Method in Counting Roots of Random Polynomial Equations. Methodology and Computing in Applied Probability 6, 203–218 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:MCAP.0000017713.58934.d3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/B:MCAP.0000017713.58934.d3

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