How Can Scalars Represent Any Linear Transformation in R^3?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on demonstrating that any linear transformation T: R^3 -> R can be expressed in the form T(x, y, z) = ax + by + cz, where a, b, and c are scalars. The proof relies on the linearity of T, specifically the property T(v+w) = T(v) + T(w). By utilizing a basis for R^3, the behavior of T on this basis allows for the determination of the transformation's action on all vectors in R^3. An analogous result for transformations T: F^n -> F^m is also established.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear transformations in vector spaces
  • Familiarity with the concept of basis in R^3
  • Knowledge of scalar multiplication and addition in linear algebra
  • Experience with proving properties of linear functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of linear transformations in detail
  • Learn about basis vectors and their role in vector space transformations
  • Explore the concept of matrix representation of linear transformations
  • Investigate analogous results for transformations between different dimensional spaces, such as T: F^n -> F^m
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those focusing on linear algebra, as well as educators teaching concepts related to vector spaces and transformations.

loli12
Let T:R^3 -> R be linear. Show that there exist scalars a, b, and c such that T(x, y , z) = ax + by + cz for all (x, y, z) in R^3. State and prove an analogous result for T: F^n -> F^m.

I know that we just have to multiply by a matrix then we can get the desired transformation. But how would I go around to show that such scalars a, b and c exists?
 
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Use the fact that T is linear. This means that T(v+w)=T(v)+T(w).
So if you know a basis for R^3 (there's an obvious one) and you know how T acts on this basis, you know how T acts on every vector in R^3.
 

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