Find Eigenvalues/Determinant of Infinite Matrix

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of finding eigenvalues and the determinant of an infinite matrix with the right entries. This type of problem falls under the Hilbert-Space theory, which deals with operator algebras in infinite-dimensional spaces. Sources such as Hilbert-Space Theory, Banach Spaces, and operator algebras like C* algebras and functional analysis in the infinite-dimensional spaces are recommended for further research. However, regularity conditions must be met for the infinite sums involved to converge.
  • #1
cragar
2,552
3
If I had an infinite matrix [itex] \aleph_0 \times \aleph_0 [/itex] could I find the eigenvalues or the Determinant of this matrix. I think some of these matrices would have a finite Determinant or it could be zero. Because i could add 1/2+1/4+1/8... but I would just need a matrix with the right entries. Just wondering if anyone has done this and how you would go about figuring it out.
 
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  • #2
Hey cragar.

The topic that deals with this kind of thing is the Hilbert-Space theory that deals with operator algebras in infinite-dimensional spaces.

If you want to look into this look into things like Hilbert-Space Theory, Banach Spaces, and operator algebras like C* algebras as well as functional analysis in the infinite-dimensional spaces.
 
  • #3
Note that you will need to have some kind of "regularity conditions" on the "infinite matrices" in order that the infinite sums involved will converge.
 
  • #4
chiro said:
Hey cragar.

The topic that deals with this kind of thing is the Hilbert-Space theory that deals with operator algebras in infinite-dimensional spaces.

If you want to look into this look into things like Hilbert-Space Theory, Banach Spaces, and operator algebras like C* algebras as well as functional analysis in the infinite-dimensional spaces.

Can you recommend any sources related to these topics? Thanks.
 
  • #5


I can provide some insights on this topic. Firstly, it is important to note that an infinite matrix is a mathematical construct and cannot be physically created. Therefore, the question of finding eigenvalues or determinant of an infinite matrix is a theoretical exercise and has limited practical applications.

In general, the eigenvalues of a matrix are defined as the solutions to the characteristic equation of the matrix. For an infinite matrix, the characteristic equation would also be an infinite equation, making it difficult to solve. Moreover, as the size of the matrix approaches infinity, the eigenvalues may become infinitely large or small, making it challenging to calculate them accurately.

Similarly, the determinant of an infinite matrix would also be an infinite value, making it difficult to compute. Additionally, the determinant of a matrix is defined as the product of its eigenvalues, which again would be difficult to determine for an infinite matrix.

Some special cases of infinite matrices, such as infinite diagonal matrices or infinite triangular matrices, may have finite determinants. However, for a general infinite matrix, it is not possible to determine the determinant without knowing the entries of the matrix.

To conclude, while it is theoretically possible to find eigenvalues and determinant of an infinite matrix, it is a challenging task and may not have practical significance.
 

Related to Find Eigenvalues/Determinant of Infinite Matrix

1. What is an eigenvalue and why is it important in matrix calculations?

An eigenvalue is a scalar value that represents the scale factor of a vector when it is multiplied by a matrix. It is important in matrix calculations because it helps to identify special properties of a matrix, such as its stability, invertibility, and diagonalizability.

2. How do you find the eigenvalues of an infinite matrix?

Finding the eigenvalues of an infinite matrix can be a complex process. One method is to use the power method, where the matrix is repeatedly multiplied by a vector until the vector converges to an eigenvector. Another method is to use diagonalization, where the matrix is transformed into a diagonal matrix and the eigenvalues are read off the diagonal.

3. What is the determinant of an infinite matrix and how is it calculated?

The determinant of an infinite matrix is a value that represents the scale factor of the transformation represented by the matrix. It can be calculated using various methods such as cofactor expansion, Gaussian elimination, or by using the properties of determinants, such as the fact that the determinant of a diagonal matrix is the product of its diagonal entries.

4. Can an infinite matrix have more than one eigenvalue?

Yes, an infinite matrix can have multiple eigenvalues. In fact, most matrices have multiple eigenvalues, unless they are specially constructed to have only one eigenvalue.

5. How can the eigenvalues and determinant of an infinite matrix be used in practical applications?

The eigenvalues and determinant of an infinite matrix can be used in a variety of practical applications, such as in physics, engineering, and computer graphics. For example, eigenvalues can be used to determine the stability of a system, while the determinant can be used to calculate the volume of a shape in 3D space.

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