An iterative technique for polynomial factorization

An iterative technique is presented for the factorization (splitting) of a real-coefficient polynomial into two lower-degree polynomials, one being the complex conjugate of the other. The algorithm is simple and suitable for programming, and monotonic convergence is guaranteed. A typical application is the determination of the reflection coefficient of a lossless network from its transmission coefficient. A numerical example is given which demonstrates that the method is considerably faster than a more conventional technique based on root extraction.<>