Inverse of a linear transformation

In summary, to find the inverse of the given transformation matrix, you have to recognize that it maps a 2x2 matrix into a 2x2 matrix, so the actual transformation matrix is 4x4. If you want to find a simpler approach, you can solve for the unknowns a, b, c, d in terms of the components of the result of the transformation, p, q, r, s, to get the equations for the inverse transformation.
  • #1
stunner5000pt
1,463
3
find the inverse of [tex] T \left[ \begin{array}{cc} a&b \\ c&d \end{array} \right] = \left[ \begin{array}{cc} a+2c&b+2d \\ 3c-a&3d-b \end{array} \right] [/tex]

do i row reduce the transformation matrix... it doesn work , though
is there an easier way??
 
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  • #2
You have to recognize that writing a b c d as a matrix like that is similar to writing a b c d as a column vector. The _real_ matrix of the transformation is 4x4.
 
  • #3
As Orthodontists pointed out (remarkable how good at math a dentist is!) since this maps a 2 by 2 matrix into a 2 by 2 matrix, the actual "transformation matrix" is 4 by 4. If you don't want to write all of that out, try a more basic approach. Using p,q,r,s as the components of the result of the transformation, you have four equations:
p= a+ 2c, q= b+ 2d, r= 3c- a, s= 3d- b, four equation in the four "unknowns" a, b, c, d. Solve for a, b, c, d in terms of p,q,r,s. that will give the equations for the inverse transformation.
 

FAQ: Inverse of a linear transformation

What is the inverse of a linear transformation?

The inverse of a linear transformation is a mathematical operation that undoes the effects of the original transformation. It is denoted by the symbol "T-1" and when applied to the original transformation, it returns the original input.

How is the inverse of a linear transformation calculated?

The inverse of a linear transformation is calculated by using a process called "matrix inversion". This involves finding the inverse of the matrix representing the original transformation, which can be done using various methods such as Gaussian elimination or Cramer's rule.

When does a linear transformation have an inverse?

A linear transformation has an inverse when the transformation is "invertible", meaning that it is one-to-one and onto. This means that each input has a unique output and each output can be traced back to a unique input, making it possible to undo the transformation.

What is the significance of the inverse of a linear transformation?

The inverse of a linear transformation is a powerful tool in mathematics and science. It allows us to solve equations, perform transformations in reverse, and find solutions to complex problems. It also has applications in fields such as engineering, physics, and computer science.

Are there any limitations to using the inverse of a linear transformation?

Yes, there are limitations to using the inverse of a linear transformation. One limitation is that the inverse may not exist if the transformation is not invertible. Additionally, the process of finding the inverse can be computationally intensive and may not always be practical for large matrices or complex transformations.

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