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astonmartin
Feb18-09, 10:35 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
For what positive integers x and n is there a real nxn matrix whose d-th power is -I (negative identity matrix)


2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution

I don't really understand this problem, aren't there endless possibilities? Also, why does it matter what size the matrix is? :confused:

Dick
Feb18-09, 11:29 PM
What's this mysterious integer x? Is it the same as d?

astonmartin
Feb19-09, 09:34 PM
Yeah sorry that's supposed to be a d. I'm assuming there is a solution to this other than the negative identity matrix?

Dick
Feb19-09, 10:03 PM
Well, yes, e.g. A=[[0,1],[-1,0]] is a 2x2 matrix and A^2=-I.