Can a Hermitian matrix have complex eigenvalues?

In summary, a matrix with complex eigenvalues and complex numbers in its elements can be classified as non-Hermitian. It is commonly referred to as a complex matrix, but without additional properties such as symmetry, it cannot be classified under a more specific category.
  • #1
SeM
Hi, I have a matrix which gives the same determinant wether it is transposed or not, however, its eigenvalues have complex roots, and there are complex numbers in the matrix elements. Can this matrix be classified as non-Hermitian?

If so, is there any other name to classify it, as it is not unitary, norm or skew-hermitian?

Thanks
 
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  • #2
SeM said:
Hi, I have a matrix which gives the same determinant wether it is transposed or not, ...
All square matrices have this property, because the determinant is a symmetric polynomial in the matrix entries..
... however, its eigenvalues have complex roots, and there are complex numbers in the matrix elements. Can this matrix be classified as non-Hermitian?
Yes.
If so, is there any other name to classify it, as it is not unitary, norm or skew-hermitian?

Thanks
A complex matrix. Without any further properties known, preferably symmetry properties, it is impossible to give a more detailed answer than this, because you basically asked: How would you name a complex matrix, which is neither ...?
 
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  • #3
Note that the only way you can get a Complex determinant is if you have Complex entries; manipulation of Reals leading to determinant will necessarily produce Real values, i.e., matrix with Real entries will necessarily have Real determinant, tho not necessarily Real eigenvalues nor Real n-ples of eigenvectors...
 
  • #4
fresh_42 said:
All square matrices have this property, because the determinant is a symmetric polynomial in the matrix entries..

Yes.

A complex matrix. Without any further properties known, preferably symmetry properties, it is impossible to give a more detailed answer than this, because you basically asked: How would you name a complex matrix, which is neither ...?

Thanks! Very clear and concise answer.
 
  • #5

1. Can a Hermitian matrix have complex eigenvalues?

Yes, a Hermitian matrix can have complex eigenvalues. This is because Hermitian matrices can have non-real complex entries, which can result in complex eigenvalues.

2. How can a Hermitian matrix have complex eigenvalues if it is supposed to be symmetric?

A Hermitian matrix is defined as a square matrix that is equal to its own conjugate transpose. This means that for every complex eigenvalue, there is also a complex conjugate eigenvalue, resulting in symmetry.

3. Can a Hermitian matrix have only complex eigenvalues?

No, a Hermitian matrix cannot have only complex eigenvalues. This is because complex eigenvalues must always come in pairs (a complex number and its complex conjugate). Therefore, if a Hermitian matrix has any complex eigenvalues, it must also have real eigenvalues.

4. How do complex eigenvalues affect the diagonalization of a Hermitian matrix?

If a Hermitian matrix has complex eigenvalues, it can still be diagonalized. However, the diagonal matrix will contain both real and complex entries, and the eigenvectors will also be complex.

5. Are there any special properties of a Hermitian matrix with complex eigenvalues?

Yes, Hermitian matrices with complex eigenvalues have the property that their complex eigenvectors are orthogonal to their real eigenvectors. This means that the eigenvectors form a basis for the vector space in which the matrix operates.

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