Variational analysis of functions of the roots of polynomials

The Gauss-Lucas Theorem on the roots of polynomials nicely simplifies the computation of the subderivative and regular subdifferential of the abscissa mapping on polynomials (the maximum of the real parts of the roots). This paper extends this approach to more general functions of the roots. By combining the Gauss-Lucas methodology with an analysis of the splitting behavior of the roots, we obtain characterizations of the subderivative and regular subdifferential for these functions as well. In particular, we completely characterize the subderivative and regular subdifferential of the radius mapping (the maximum of the moduli of the roots). The abscissa and radius mappings are important for the study of continuous and discrete time linear dynamical systems. Dedicated to R. Tyrrell Rockafellar on the occasion of his 70th birthday. Terry is one of those rare individuals who combine a broad vision, deep insight, and the outstanding writing and lecturing skills crucial for engaging others in his subject. With these qualities he has won universal respect as a founding father of our discipline. We, and the broader mathematical community, owe Terry a great deal. But most of all we are personally thankful to Terry for his friendship and guidance. Research supported in part by the National Science Foundation Grant DMS-0203175. Research supported in part by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. Research supported in part by the National Science Foundation Grant DMS-0412049.