Proving Vector Independence: A & B Not Parallel

In summary, vector independence is proven by showing that no linear combination of the given vectors can equal the zero vector, unless all coefficients are zero. Two vectors are considered not parallel if they do not have the same direction or are not multiples of each other. It is important to prove vector independence in order to determine if a set of vectors can form a basis for a vector space and to understand the relationships between vectors and their linear combinations. A linear combination of vectors is the sum of scalar multiples of those vectors. An example of proving vector independence is setting up the equation a<em>x</em> + b<em>y</em> = 0 and solving for <em>x</em> and <em>y</em>, where
  • #1
dracolnyte
28
0

Homework Statement


Show that two planar vectors a and b are linearly independent if and only if they are not parallel.

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that, if they are not parallel, they will meet and cross in a line.
What else should I know before proving this question?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You certainly should know the definition of "independent vectors"! I don't think it will help to think "geometrically" here. Just use the definitions of "independent" and "dependent" vectors and the fact that, since the plane is two dimensional, two independent vectors must span the entire space.
 

FAQ: Proving Vector Independence: A & B Not Parallel

1. How do you prove vector independence?

To prove vector independence, you must show that no linear combination of the given vectors can equal the zero vector, except for the trivial solution where all coefficients are zero.

2. What does it mean for two vectors to be not parallel?

Two vectors are considered not parallel if they do not have the same direction or are not multiples of each other. In other words, they do not lie on the same line.

3. Why is it important to prove vector independence?

Proving vector independence is important in linear algebra and other areas of mathematics because it allows us to determine if a set of vectors can form a basis for a vector space. It also helps us understand the relationships between vectors and their linear combinations.

4. What is a linear combination of vectors?

A linear combination of vectors is the sum of scalar multiples of those vectors. For example, if you have vectors v and w, their linear combination can be written as av + bw, where a and b are scalars.

5. Can you give an example of how to prove vector independence?

Yes, for two vectors a = [1, 2, 3] and b = [4, 5, 6], we can show that they are independent by setting up the equation ax + by = 0 and solving for x and y. If the only solution is x = 0 and y = 0, then the vectors are independent.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top