Proposing Proving Hermitian Matrices Diagonalizable by Unitary Matrix

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of showing that every hermitian matrix can be diagonalized by a unitary matrix. This can be proven using the Spectral Decomposition theorem. The steps to prove this involve finding a unitary matrix S that satisfies S(inverse)HS = D, where D is a diagonal matrix. It is also important to show that S(inverse)HS and D are both hermitian. The conversation ends with a request for clarification on how to approach the problem.
  • #1
sunnyo7
2
0
Its quantum computing but related to math:

Homework Statement



show every hermitian matrix can be diagonalized by unitary matrix. Prove this using. N x N matrix.


Homework Equations


H= hermitian matrix. U = unitary matrix
show U-1(inverse)HU = D (diagonal) using N x N matrix.


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know how to start.

Any help would be helpful.
 
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  • #2
This is fairly nontrivial, but easy if you know what to do. It is a special case of the finite dimensional spectral theorem, as hermitian matrices are normal.

Sketch: Suppose A is normal. Then by Schur's Lemma we know that A is unitarily similar to an upper triangular matrix. That is, [tex]U^HAU=T[/tex].

Now, since T is both triangular and normal we see that T is diagonal. Hence, [tex]A=UDU^H[/tex] upon block multiplication.I will leave it to you to show that T is normal and if T triangular and normal then T is diagonal.
 
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  • #3
No, still not clear. I'm good with kind of proving. Can you be more specific on how to answer the question. I'm really really thankfu.
Question:
It is possible to show using the Spectral Decomposition theorem that every hermitian matrix cab be diagonalzed by a unitary matrix. Let H be a an hermitian matrix and set S be unitary where S(inverse)HS= D where D is diagonal.
Show that S(inverse) H S and hence D is hermitian
 

FAQ: Proposing Proving Hermitian Matrices Diagonalizable by Unitary Matrix

What is a Hermitian matrix?

A Hermitian matrix is a square matrix that is equal to its own conjugate transpose. In other words, it is symmetric about its main diagonal and its complex conjugate entries are reflected across the diagonal.

What does it mean for a matrix to be diagonalizable by a unitary matrix?

A matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix if it can be transformed into a diagonal matrix by multiplying it on both sides by a unitary matrix. This means that the matrix can be written in terms of its eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

How do you propose a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix?

To propose that a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix, you must show that the matrix is both Hermitian and has a full set of eigenvectors. If these conditions are met, then the matrix can be diagonalized by a unitary matrix.

What is the significance of proving a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix?

Proving a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix is significant because it allows us to simplify and understand the matrix better. It also has important applications in quantum mechanics and signal processing.

What are some methods for proving a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix?

Some methods for proving a Hermitian matrix is diagonalizable by a unitary matrix include using the spectral theorem or the Jordan decomposition theorem. Other methods include using the Gram-Schmidt process or diagonalization through similarity transformations.

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