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Abstract

The characteristic equation of a three-dimensional (3D) second-order real symmetric tensor belongs to the class of cubic equations for which the closed-form solution can be found by applying a well known trigonometric change of variable. A simple proof that such a procedure is of general validity in solving the characteristic equation is provided. This work is believed to be of value for didactic purpose in courses related to continuum mechanics.

Keywords

cubic equation eigenvalue root finding symmetric tensor

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Eigenvalue Finding of Three-Dimensional Second-Order Real Symmetric Tensors

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