Hatcher-Topology-of-Numbers · Problem 5.1.5

Classification of Quadratic Forms

Mathematics — Algebraic Topology · zero-hyperbolic-forms

Problem

(a) Show that if a quadratic form Q(x,y)=ax2+bxy+cy2Q(x,y) = ax^2 + bxy + cy^2 can be factored as a product (Ax+By)(Cx+Dy)(Ax+By)(Cx+Dy) with A,B,C,DA,B,C,D integers, then QQ takes the value 00 at some pair of integers (x,y)≠(0,0)(x,y) \neq (0,0), hence QQ must be either 00-hyperbolic or parabolic. Show also, by a direct calculation, that the discriminant of this form is a square. (b) Find a 00-hyperbolic form Q(x,y)Q(x,y) such that Q(1,5)=0Q(1,5) = 0 and Q(7,2)=0Q(7,2) = 0 and draw a portion of the topograph of QQ that includes the two regions where Q(x,y)=0Q(x,y) = 0.

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