How can I determine if a set of vectors forms a subspace?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining whether a set of vectors forms a subspace, specifically in the context of a linear algebra assignment. The original poster seeks guidance on how to approach the problem related to a matrix representation involving vectors A, B, and C.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the meaning of the notation VecR(A, B, C) and its relation to spanning sets. There is uncertainty about how to set up the equation involving the vectors and the matrix entries.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the notation and the implications for solving the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the setup of the equation, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a specific assignment question and a reference to a matrix with entries a, b, c, d, which may impose constraints on the discussion. Participants express uncertainty about the terminology used in their textbooks.

phy
Hi guys. I need some help with question #5 from my assignment. If someone can just tell me how to get the question started, it would be great. Thanks :smile:

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If A, B and C generate U then e*A +f*B + g*C generates every element in U (in this case that a b c d matrix). Of course you know this already seeing as you did the rest of those. What does VecR(A, B, C) mean? No linear alg. book I've ever worked with uses that notation.
 
I'm not 100% sure on this either but somebody who I spoke to said that VecR(A, B, C) is just a spanning set. I couldn't find it in my textbook either.

So would I just set e*A +f*B + g*C equal to the matrix with entries a b c d and then solve?
 
phy said:
I'm not 100% sure on this either but somebody who I spoke to said that VecR(A, B, C) is just a spanning set. I couldn't find it in my textbook either.

So would I just set e*A +f*B + g*C equal to the matrix with entries a b c d and then solve?

Ok that's what I figured. Yeah and you should get some sort of proportionality between the four and not a numerical answer once you solve it out.
 
Alrightie I'll do that. Thanks a lot =)
 

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