On discriminant matrices

This paper considers the usual compound matrix, the additive compound matrix, and the discriminant matrix. An investigation of the Jordan structure of discriminant matrices is initiated. The primary objective of the paper is the determination of the Jordan form of the discriminant of one Jordan block. This Jordan form has a very simple pattern. A number of related results are obtained. The main results are facilitated by the new precedence relation ordering and the block-persymmetric property of the matrices. Examples of the discriminant matrices and Jordan forms are provided.