Finding the missing vector such that the matrix is orthonormal

  • Thread starter Thread starter g.lemaitre
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Matrix Vector
g.lemaitre
Messages
267
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


A matrix is orthonormal if the magnitude of its vectors = 1 and all vector pairs are perpendicular, that is, their dot product = 0. Find the missing vector which would make the following matrix orthonormal:
<br /> \begin{bmatrix}<br /> \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} &amp; x \\<br /> \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} &amp; y \\<br /> \end{bmatrix}
Most textbooks use x_1 and x_2 but I find x and y easier

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


<br /> \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}x + \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} = 0 ... space here ... <br /> \sqrt{x^2 + y^2} = 1<br />
I tried setting x = y and I got
<br /> \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}x = -\frac{2}{\sqrt{5}}
But that's as far as I could with that problem.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I solved this problem.
 
I've solved this problem.
 
Back
Top