Extremal polynomials related to Zolotarev polynomials

Abstract

Algebraic polynomials bounded in absolute value by M > 0 in the interval [–1, 1] and taking a fixed value A at a > 1 are considered. The extremal problem of finding such a polynomial taking a maximum possible value at a given point b < −1 is solved. The existence and uniqueness of an extremal polynomial and its independence of the point b < −1 are proved. A characteristic property of the extremal polynomial is determined, which is the presence of an n-point alternance formed by means of active constraints. The dependence of the alternance pattern, the objective function, and the leading coefficient on the parameter A is investigated. A correspondence between the extremal polynomials in the problem under consideration and the Zolotarev polynomials is established.