23 Oct
2008
23 Oct
'08
1:20 p.m.
The determinant of a matrix is a polynomial in its elements. For an antisymmetric matrix of odd order, the determinant is zero, while for an antisymmetric matrix of even order, this polynomial factors into the square of another polynomial, called the Pfaffian. Does anyone know of a simple, easy to follow, proof that the determinant factors as asserted? Gene