Complex Polynomials and Minimal Values

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The discussion focuses on proving the fundamental theorem of algebra using the minimal modulus principle. A key point is understanding why, if the limit of |P(z)| approaches infinity as |z| approaches infinity for a non-constant polynomial, there exists a point a in C such that |P(a)| is less than or equal to |P(z)| for all z. It is explained that a closed disk around 0 can be found where |P(z)| is greater than or equal to |P(0)| for |z| greater than some radius r. This compact set must contain a minimum value at an interior point z_0, ensuring that |P(z_0)| is less than or equal to |P(x)| for all x in C. The discussion emphasizes the logical connection between the limit behavior of polynomials and the existence of minimum values in compact sets.
moo5003
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Hello, I'm trying to prove the fundamental thereom of algebra using the minimal modulous principal. There is one step that I cannot make sense out of logically and I was wondering if one of you could explain it to me.

If the limit as |z| approaches infinity implies |P(z)| approaches infinity for some non-constant polynomial then there exists an a in C such that |P(a)| <or= |P(z)| for all z. Why does this follow?
 
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moo5003 said:
Hello, I'm trying to prove the fundamental thereom of algebra using the minimal modulous principal. There is one step that I cannot make sense out of logically and I was wondering if one of you could explain it to me.

If the limit as |z| approaches infinity implies |P(z)| approaches infinity for some non-constant polynomial then there exists an a in C such that |P(a)| <or= |P(z)| for all z. Why does this follow?

I don't quite remember exactly how it goes, but I remember it using 1/|P(z)|.

I'd have to wait until I get home to find out how it went.
 
So, after reading wikipedia for awhile. It follows since you can find a closed disk around 0 with radius r where |f(z)|>or=|f(0)| where |z|>r since the limit goes to infinity. And since the disk is a compact set it must contain a minimum value of z_0. Thus |f(z_0)| <or= |f(x)| for all x in C.

Note: z_0 is on interior of the disk not the boundary.
 

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