In linear algebra, the Cayley-Hamilton theorem is an equation, which shows that every real matrix or composite matrix distributed on any commutative ring satisfies its characteristics. Kelley-Hamilton theorem is equivalent to that the characteristic polynomial of a square matrix will be divisible by its minimum polynomial, which is particularly useful in finding Jordan canonical form.

Mathematicians related to theorems

Arthur Cayley is an English mathematician. He had published three papers when he was in college. In order to make a living, he started practicing as a lawyer from 1849. During his 14 years as a lawyer, he published about 250 papers. He published 900 papers in his life, including non-Euclidean geometry, linear algebra, group theory, high-dimensional geometry and so on.

Sir William Ron Hamilton (1August 4th, 805-1September 2nd, 865) was an Irish mathematician, physicist and astronomer. Hamilton made great contributions to the development of optics, dynamics and algebra. His achievements later became the pillar of quantum mechanics.