---
tag: 0VSSPAFM2C
kind: concept
name: Characteristic polynomial
msc: [15A15, 15A18]
sources:
  - url: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Characteristic_polynomial
    locator: Formal definition
same_as:
  wikidata: Q849705
  wikipedia: Characteristic polynomial
---

## Summary

The characteristic polynomial of a square matrix $A$ is the polynomial $\det(t I - A)$ in the variable $t$.
Its roots in the field are the eigenvalues of $A$.