What Do These Symbols and Scopes Mean in Mathematical Notation?

  • Thread starter transgalactic
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Mean
In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of double lines representing the norm of a vector, and the use of brackets to denote the span of two vectors. The inner product of two vectors is also mentioned, along with its properties and how it relates to the norm of a vector. Finally, the correct formulas for calculating the norm and inner product are confirmed.
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
The double line absolute value is called the norm of a vector. Depending on the field, you might have different definitions. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norm_(mathematics )

The second symbol, the brackets, are used to denote the span of two vectors. That is the set of all possible linear combinations of two vectors
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
found it
i will try to comprehend this stuff
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Caution: <a, b> is also often used to mean the inner product of two vectors. In fact, since you refer to it in connection with ||v||, I would be inclined to suspect that is what is meant: ||v||2= <v, v>.

The inner product on a vector space, V, is a function from [itex]V\times V[/itex] to the underlying field, such that
1) [itex]<v,v>\ge 0\/itex] and [itex]<v,v>= 0[/itex] if and only if v= 0.
2) [itex]<au+ bv,w>= a<u,w>+ b<v,w>[/itex].
3) [itex]<u,v>= \overline{<v,u>}}[/itex].
(that overline is complex conjugate)

If you are given a basis,[itex]{e_1, e_2, \cdot\cdot\cdot, \e_n}[/itex] for the vector space, so that two vectors, u and v, can be written [itex]v= a_12_1+ a_2e_2+\cdot\cdot\cdot+ a_ne_n[/itex] and [itex]u= b_1e_1+ b_2e_2+ \cdot\cdot\cdot+ b_ne_n[/itex] then the dot product, [itex]u\cdot v= a_1b_1+ a_2b_2+ \cdot\cdot\cdot+ a_nb_n[/itex] is an inner product.
 
  • #5
so if i have vector a=(x,y,z) b=(s,t,d)

||a||=(x^2 + y^2 +z^2)^0.5

<a,b>=x*s + y*t + z*d

(<a,a>)^0.5 =||a||

is it correct?
 
  • #6
Yes.
 

1. What do the symbols in a scientific equation represent?

The symbols in a scientific equation represent different variables or quantities that are being measured or manipulated. These symbols can include letters, numbers, or other mathematical symbols.

2. How do scientists use symbols in their research?

Scientists use symbols in their research to represent complex ideas or processes in a concise and standardized way. This allows for easier communication and interpretation of data among scientists.

3. Why are symbols important in science?

Symbols are important in science because they provide a universal language that allows for clear and concise communication of complex ideas and data. This promotes accuracy, efficiency, and consistency in scientific research.

4. What are some common symbols used in science?

Some common symbols used in science include the periodic table of elements, mathematical operators like + or =, units of measurement like m or kg, and chemical formulas such as H2O. These symbols are used to represent specific elements, quantities, or processes in scientific research and communication.

5. How can I learn to interpret symbols in scientific literature?

To learn how to interpret symbols in scientific literature, it is important to have a basic understanding of the scientific method and key concepts in the field you are studying. Additionally, you can refer to a glossary or key to symbols in the specific research paper or textbook you are reading. Practice and exposure to scientific literature will also help improve your ability to interpret symbols in a scientific context.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
733
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
993
  • Computing and Technology
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
1
Views
547
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
277
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
844
Back
Top