Let $L: P_2 \longrightarrow P_2$ be the linear operator defined by $L(p(t)) = p'(t)$ for $p(t) \in P_2$, the space of real polynomials of degree at most $2$. Is $L$ diagonalizable? If it is, find a basis $S$ for $P_2$ with respect to which $L$ is represented by a diagonal matrix.
Answer: $L$ is not diagonalizable. The eigenvalues of $L$ are $\lambda_1 = \lambda_2 = \lambda_3 = 0$. The set of associated eigenvectors does not form a basis for $P_2$.
I don't how you solve this problem. How do you transform the polynomial into a matrix so that I can find the eigenvalues? I can solve these questions if they state the matrix but this one concerns polynomials. Can someone please help me?