Closed form expression of the roots of Laguerre polynomials

In summary, the Laguerre polynomials have n real, strictly positive roots in the interval (0, n+\alpha+(n-1)\sqrt{n+\alpha}]. There is no known closed form expression for these roots in terms of radicals, and it is believed that they are not solvable by radicals. There is also no known special expression for these roots in terms of other functions.
  • #1
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The Laguerre polynomials,

[itex]
L_n^{(\alpha)} = \frac{x^{-\alpha}e^x}{n!}\frac{d^n}{dx^n}\left(e^{-x}x^{n+\alpha} \right)
[/itex]

have [itex] n [/itex] real, strictly positive roots in the interval [itex] \left( 0, n+\alpha+(n-1)\sqrt{n+\alpha} \right] [/itex]

I am interested in a closed form expression of these roots, that is, I would like to avoid any method of finding these roots, such as, Laguerre's method.

Any ideas are most welcome.
 
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  • #2
For a polynomial to be solvable by radicals, the Galois group of the polynomial must be solvable http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galois_theory#Solvable_groups_and_solution_by_radicals. For degree 5 and above, there are many polynomials that are not solvable, so there is no closed form expression for the roots in terms of radicals. In rare examples, expressions for the roots in terms of special functions might exist.

It appears that the Laguerre polynomials are definitely not solvable (for example http://arxiv.org/abs/math/0406308). I haven't been able to turn up anything about special expressions for roots, so I'd guess that they don't exist.
 

1. What are Laguerre polynomials?

Laguerre polynomials are a set of orthogonal polynomials that are often used in mathematical analysis and engineering applications. They are named after the French mathematician, Edmond Laguerre, who first studied them in the 19th century.

2. What is a closed form expression?

A closed form expression is a mathematical expression that can be written in terms of familiar mathematical operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and exponentiation. It does not involve infinite sums or integrals.

3. Why is it important to find closed form expressions for the roots of Laguerre polynomials?

Finding closed form expressions for the roots of Laguerre polynomials allows us to easily calculate the roots and use them in various applications. It also provides a deeper understanding of the properties and behavior of these polynomials.

4. How are the roots of Laguerre polynomials related to their coefficients?

The roots of Laguerre polynomials can be expressed in terms of their coefficients using a formula known as the Laguerre root formula. This formula allows us to calculate the roots without having to solve the polynomial equation.

5. Are there any other methods for finding the roots of Laguerre polynomials?

Yes, there are other methods for finding the roots of Laguerre polynomials, such as using numerical methods like the Newton-Raphson method or the bisection method. However, closed form expressions are preferred as they provide exact solutions and are often more efficient for calculations.

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