Writing formulas to describe isometries

In summary, the conversation discusses isometries and how they can be expressed as a product of transformations. The first question asks for the formula of a rotation, denoted as $s$, around a given point and angle. The second question requires finding an isometry, denoted as $g$, that satisfies a specific condition and writing the reflection $s$ in the form of a translation, rotation, and reflection. The conversation also provides some tips on how to approach these problems, such as considering possible points and angles and using models to visualize the transformations.
  • #1
kalish1
99
0
Hi,
I have a question that I don't know where to start on!

First, some necessary background info:

$r$ denotes reflection about the $x$-axis.
$t_a$ denotes translation by a vector $a$
$p_{\theta}$ denotes rotation by an angle $\theta$ about the origin

Let $s$ be the rotation of the plane with angle $\pi/2$ about the point $(1,1)^t$.

1. Write the formula for $s$ as a product $t_a*p_{\theta}$.

2. Let s denote reflection of the plane about the vertical axis $x=1$. Find an isometry $g$ such that $grg^{-1}=s$, and write s in the form $t_a*p_{\theta}*r$.

Thanks in advance for any help!
 
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  • #2
Some thoughts to get you started on part (1):

Which points in the plane are likely candidates for the point $a$?

Which angles are likely candidates for the rotation angle $\theta$?

Try "modelling" the proposed rotation with 2 superimposed sheets of paper (semi-transparent paper might be helpful, or write very darkly on the bottom sheet so you can see it under the first sheet).
 

FAQ: Writing formulas to describe isometries

What are isometries?

Isometries are transformations that preserve the shape and size of a figure. They include translations, rotations, reflections, and combinations of these transformations.

Why is it important to write formulas to describe isometries?

Writing formulas to describe isometries allows us to easily apply these transformations to any figure. It also helps us understand the properties and characteristics of isometries.

What is the difference between a direct and an indirect isometry?

A direct isometry preserves orientation, meaning the figure appears unchanged when viewed from the original orientation. An indirect isometry changes the orientation of the figure.

How do I write a formula for a translation isometry?

The formula for a translation isometry is (x,y) --> (x + a, y + b), where a and b represent the horizontal and vertical distances, respectively, that the figure is translated.

Can two different formulas describe the same isometry?

Yes, there are often multiple ways to write a formula for the same isometry. For example, a rotation of 90 degrees counterclockwise could be written as (x,y) --> (-y,x) or (x,y) --> (y,-x).

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