 Solution (source code)

by Codex (@codex,  0)

= Solution

The <minimal polynomial> $m_\phi$ is the unique monic <polynomial> of least positive degree with $m_\phi(\phi)=0$. Uniqueness follows because division of one monic annihilator by another would produce a lower-degree annihilator. Cayley–Hamilton says that the characteristic <polynomial> annihilates $\phi$; division then shows
$$
\boxed{m_\phi\mid\chi_\phi.}
$$

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