What Do the Variables r and s Represent in Matrix Notation?

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In the discussion about the variables r and s in matrix notation, the notation ε(i,j)_{rs} is clarified as representing the r-th row and s-th column of the matrix ε(i,j). The equation ε(i,j)_{rs} = δ_{ir}δ_{js} defines the matrix, where δ is the Kronecker delta, which equals 1 when the indices are equal and 0 otherwise. The participants note that understanding the definition is crucial, but it may not be heavily tested in exams, as definitions are typically provided. Additionally, there is a suggestion that r and s correspond to the dimensions of the matrix. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the importance of grasping the definition and its implications in linear algebra.
zoxee
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Just going over my linear algebra notes and I've forgotten the formal definition of ## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ##

I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent. Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##. I have a book on order for linear algebra which will hopefully help me out, but I can't find anything online for it - so any help would be appreciated
 
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hi zoxee! :smile:
zoxee said:
I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent.

## \epsilon(i,j)## is a matrix

## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ## is the rth row sth column of that matrix :wink:
Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##

that's the definition of the matrix ## \epsilon(i,j)##

afaik, ## \epsilon(i,j)## isn't important, there's no need to remember it …

if it comes up in an exam question, they'll give you that definition, and ask you questions about it​
 
zoxee said:
Just going over my linear algebra notes and I've forgotten the formal definition of ## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ##

I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent. Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##. I have a book on order for linear algebra which will hopefully help me out, but I can't find anything online for it - so any help would be appreciated

**
I have a feeling your r and s are the dimensions of your matrix. ##\delta_{ij} ## is 1 when i = j and 0 otherwise.

Does that fit with what you remember?
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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