Linear Algebra: How to represent this transformation as a matrix?

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the spectrum and eigenvectors of a given linear operator T on V, where V is a 2x2 matrix with specific transformations. The question arises about how to correctly write the transformation matrix and how to obtain the correct eigenvalues, which are found to be {1,-1,2}.
  • #1
zeion
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Homework Statement



Find the spectrum of the given linear operator T on V and find an eigenvector of T corresponding to each eigenvalue.

[tex]

V = R_{2x2}, T (\begin{bmatrix}a_{11}&a_{12}\\a_{21}&a_{22} \end{bmatrix}) = \begin{bmatrix}-2a_{11}-a_{12}&a_{11}\\a_{21}&2a_{22} \end{bmatrix}

[/tex]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm confused about how to write the columns and rows of the transformation matrix.. do I do this:

[tex] \begin{bmatrix}-2&-1&0&0\\1&0&0&0\\0&0&1&0\\0&0&0&2 \end{bmatrix}


[/tex]

Or the transposed? Or something else?

When I tried to get the spectrum (eigenvalues?) of this matrix I get {1, 2, -2} but the answer is {1,-1,2}, which doesn't work with the characteristic polynomial..
 
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  • #2
That's one way to write the matrix. Though to be absolutely clear you should say which columns correspond to which basis vector. But I get eigenvalues {1,-1,2} for your matrix. Maybe just check your eigenvalue calculation.
 

FAQ: Linear Algebra: How to represent this transformation as a matrix?

1. What is Linear Algebra?

Linear Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of linear equations and their representations through matrices and vectors. It involves the manipulation and analysis of these mathematical objects to solve problems in various fields, such as physics, engineering, and computer science.

2. What is a transformation in Linear Algebra?

In Linear Algebra, a transformation is a function that maps one vector space to another. It involves the manipulation of vectors and matrices to transform a given set of data into a different representation, often with the goal of simplifying calculations or solving a problem.

3. How do you represent a transformation as a matrix?

To represent a transformation as a matrix, you need to first determine the basis vectors of the vector space being transformed. These basis vectors will serve as the columns of the transformation matrix. Then, you can apply the transformation to each basis vector and record the resulting vectors as the rows of the matrix. The resulting matrix will represent the transformation.

4. What are the advantages of representing a transformation as a matrix?

Representing a transformation as a matrix allows for easier manipulation and analysis of the transformation. It also allows for more efficient calculations, especially for complex transformations. Additionally, representing a transformation as a matrix can make it easier to apply the transformation to multiple vectors or to compose it with other transformations.

5. What are some real-world applications of Linear Algebra and representing transformations as matrices?

Linear Algebra and representing transformations as matrices have countless real-world applications. These include computer graphics, data compression, machine learning, and solving systems of linear equations in engineering and economics. They are also used in physics for representing physical laws and in statistics for data analysis and modeling.

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