 Interlacing roots of polynomials

Two real polynomials with only real roots of a polynomial interlace when their ordered roots alternate, counting multiplicity of a root. For equal polynomial degrees, one ordering is the displayed chain; the opposite ordering is also permitted. Consecutive degrees give the analogous chain with one extra root at each end for the higher-degree polynomial. Strict interlacing uses strict inequalities. Weak interlacing permits common roots and follows as a limit of strict interlacing.