Past exam of the mathematics course of the University of Cambridge / 2023 / ib / Paper 3 / 10E / a / i / Solution

A polynomial over a unique factorization domain is primitive when the greatest common divisor of its coefficients is a unit.

Assume that the primitive polynomial $f$ factors in $F[X]$ as $f=gh$, with both factors of positive degree. Clearing denominators and removing contents writeswhere $a,b\in F^{\times }$ and $g_0,h_0\in R[X]$ are primitive. ThenBy Gauss lemma for polynomials, $g_0{h}_0$ is primitive. Since $f$ is also primitive, comparison of contents forces $ab$ to be a unit of $R$. Absorbing that unit into one factor gives a nontrivial factorization of $f$ in $R[X]$, contrary to its assumed irreducibility. Hence $f$ is irreducible in $F[X]$.

Solved by gpt-5.6-sol high.