Figuring out kyle numbers for matrices/

In summary, the explanation refers to finding the Kernel of a matrix by performing row-reduction. The sentence "The Kyle numbers are 1, 2 because adding the first to 2 times the second column gives zero" means that when multiplying the first column by 1 and the second column by 2, the resulting linear combination produces a null vector. This is a key step in finding the elements of the Kernel.
  • #1
Witt27
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Homework Statement


http://www.math.harvard.edu/archive/21b_spring_09/faq.html
I'm having trouble understanding this explanation, particularly this part. "The Kyle numbers are 1, 2 because adding the first to 2 times the second column gives zero. "
Sorry for this basic question but I was wondering if someone can explain this particular part.

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  • #2
In principle, you have to find the Kernel of the matrix, that is the subspace the elements of which become zero by applying the linear transformation. In the example, the elements are multiples of the vector [1,2]T. You can find the elements of the Kernel by row-reduction of the matrix, but I do not understand the sentence you cited "The Kyle numbers are 1, 2 because adding the first to 2 times the second column gives zero. "
Two times the first column added to the second one gives zero. So 1,2 are the numbers in the linear combination of the columns that produces null vector.
 

FAQ: Figuring out kyle numbers for matrices/

What are kyle numbers for matrices?

Kyle numbers for matrices are a set of numbers used to determine the properties of a matrix, such as its rank, determinant, and eigenvalues. They are named after mathematician and physicist John Kyle.

How do I calculate kyle numbers for a matrix?

To calculate kyle numbers for a matrix, you need to first find the characteristic polynomial of the matrix. This is done by taking the determinant of the matrix minus lambda, where lambda is a variable. Then, you can find the roots of the polynomial, which will be the kyle numbers.

Why are kyle numbers important in matrix analysis?

Kyle numbers are important in matrix analysis because they provide valuable information about the properties of a matrix. They can help determine if a matrix is invertible, diagonalizable, or singular, among other things. They also have applications in physics and engineering.

Can kyle numbers be complex?

Yes, kyle numbers can be complex. This is because the characteristic polynomial of a matrix can have complex roots. In fact, if a matrix has complex eigenvalues, it is not possible to find a real matrix that is similar to it.

How are kyle numbers related to eigenvalues?

Kyle numbers and eigenvalues are closely related. In fact, kyle numbers are the roots of the characteristic polynomial, which is used to find the eigenvalues of a matrix. The number of distinct kyle numbers is equal to the number of distinct eigenvalues of a matrix.

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