Linear Algebra - Infinite fields and vector spaces with infinite vectors

In summary, the conversation discusses a proof that a nontrivial vector space over an infinite field contains infinitely many vectors. This is shown by using the axioms for fields and vector spaces, and demonstrating that for any scalar a in the field, av is also in the vector space. The "non-trivial" aspect of the proof is proving that different scalars result in different vectors.
  • #1
corey115
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Homework Statement


Let F be an infinite field (that is, a field with an infinite number of elements) and let V be a nontrivial vector space over F. Prove that V contains infinitely many vectors.


Homework Equations


The axioms for fields and vector spaces.


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm thinking this is easier than I'm making it. Can I say, at the very least, F is countably infinite, so then there exist an infinite amount of scalars to apply to V?
 
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  • #2
Yes, it really is that easy. Since V is a non-trivial vector space it contains a non-zero vector, v. And then for any a in F, av is in V. The "non-trivial" part of the proof is showing that if [itex]a_1\ne a_2[/itex] then [itex]a_1v\ne a_2v[/itex] but that is easy to show.
 

1. What is a vector space with infinite vectors in linear algebra?

A vector space is a collection of vectors that follow certain rules and properties, such as closure under addition and scalar multiplication. When working with infinite fields and vector spaces, these rules and properties still apply, but the vectors can have an infinite number of components. This allows for more complex and precise mathematical representations in linear algebra.

2. How are infinite vectors represented in linear algebra?

Infinite vectors can be represented in linear algebra using a notation similar to finite vectors. Instead of using a bracket to enclose the components, a parenthesis is used to indicate that the vector has an infinite number of components. For example, (1, 2, 3, ...) represents an infinite vector with the first three components being 1, 2, and 3, and the remaining components continuing in the same pattern.

3. What are some real-world applications of linear algebra with infinite fields and vector spaces?

Linear algebra with infinite fields and vector spaces has many applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science. For example, it can be used to model and analyze systems with infinite dimensions, such as electromagnetic fields or quantum mechanics. It can also be used in data analysis and machine learning, where high-dimensional data can be represented as infinite vectors.

4. How does the concept of dimensionality change in infinite fields and vector spaces?

In linear algebra, the dimensionality of a vector space is the number of vectors in a basis for that space. In infinite fields and vector spaces, the dimensionality can be thought of as the number of "directions" or "degrees of freedom" in the space, which can be infinite. This means that there can be an infinite number of linearly independent vectors in the space, making it more complex and versatile.

5. Can infinite fields and vector spaces be applied to other areas of mathematics besides linear algebra?

Yes, infinite fields and vector spaces can be applied to various areas of mathematics, such as functional analysis, topology, and differential equations. In these fields, infinite vector spaces provide a more precise and powerful framework for understanding and solving complex problems.

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