Prove that $Y^n-13X^4$ is irreducible in $\mathbf{Q}[X,Y]$

abstract-algebraring-theory

Prove that $Y^n-13X^4$ is irreducible in $\mathbf{Q}[X,Y]$

Look at $Y^n-13X^4$ as a polyomial in $(\mathbf{Q}[X])[Y]$, then we can use Eisenstein with $13\in\mathbf{Z}[X]$ (which is prime) and $169\not\mid 13X^4$. Then the polynomial is irreducible over $Y^n-13X^4$ and by Gauss' Lemma also in $\mathbf{Q}[X,Y]$.

Is this the correct way to approach it? I am having trouble applying Eisenstein over polynomial rings in more variables.

Best Answer

If it were reducible in $\mathbb Q[X,Y]$ then you could substitute $X$ for $Y$ and you'd have a factorisation of $X^n-13X^4$, hence of $X^{n-4}-13$, which is impossible. (Some powers of $X$ will need borrowing if $n<4$, and if $n=4$ it's clear.)