Solving the Polynomial Equation: z⁶ – z⁴ + z² – 1 = 0

Understanding polynomial equations is fundamental in mathematics, engineering, physics, and applied sciences. One such intriguing equation is the sixth-degree polynomial:

> z⁶ – z⁴ + z² – 1 = 0

Understanding the Context

This equation invites exploration into complex roots, factorization techniques, and numerical solutions while showcasing valuable insights relevant to both pure and applied mathematics.


Why This Equation Matters

At first glance, z⁶ – z⁴ + z² – 1 appears deceptively simple, yet it exemplifies a common class of polynomials — those with symmetry and even powers. Equations of this form frequently appear in:

Key Insights

  • Control systems and stability analysis
  • Signal processing and filter design
  • Chaos theory and nonlinear dynamics
  • Algebraic modeling of periodic systems
  • Complex analysis and root-finding algorithms

Solving such equations accurately helps researchers and practitioners predict system behaviors, identify resonance frequencies, or design effective numerical simulations.


Step-by-Step Root Analysis

Step 1: Substitution to Reduce Degree

Final Thoughts

The equation z⁶ – z⁴ + z² – 1 = 0 features only even powers of z. Let’s simplify it using substitution:

Let
w = z²

Then the equation becomes:

> w³ – w² + w – 1 = 0

This is a cubic equation in w, which is much easier to solve using standard methods.


Step 2: Factor the Cubic Polynomial

We attempt factoring w³ – w² + w – 1 by grouping:

w³ – w² + w – 1 = (w³ – w²) + (w – 1)
= w²(w – 1) + 1(w – 1)
= (w² + 1)(w – 1)

Perfect! So,