# Homework Help: Conic Equation using a Quadratic Form

1. Aug 23, 2011

### Apple&Orange

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

x12+x1x2+2x22=8

a) Write the equation using a quadratic form i.e. $\underline{x}$TA$\underline{X}$=8

b)Find the Matrix Q such that the transformation $\underline{X}$=Q$\underline{Y}$ diagonalises A and reduces the quadratic form to standard form in terms of coordinates (y1,y2)

2. Relevant equations

$\underline{X}$=Q$\underline{Y}$
$\underline{X}$TA$\underline{X}$=8

3. The attempt at a solution

For question b), I got the A matrix as [1 1;0 2] or [1 0.5;0.5 2] *sorry, don't know how to use the matrix operator so I've written it matlab style*.

I used the first matrix to give a better looking eigenvalues, which resulted in 2 and 1. From the values, I got a vector of [1;0] and [1;1]

Using the vectors, I got a Q matrix of [1 0; 1/sqrt(2) 1/sqrt(2)]
and using $\underline{X}$=Q$\underline{Y}$, I got
2.707y12+2.707y1y2+y22 which I'm not even sure if its right.

Could someone please assist me in tackling this question?
Thanks!

2. Aug 24, 2011

### HallsofIvy

Yes, the matrix here is
$$\begin{bmatrix}1 & 0.5 \\ 0.5 & 2\end{bmatrix}$$

The first matrix you give is wrong. In order to be certain that there are eigenvalues, you must have a symmetric matrix. You don't want "better looking" eigenvalues, you want the right eigenvalues!

Finally, the problem asked you to "Find the Matrix Q such that the transformation X=QY diagonalises A reduces the quadratic form to standard form in terms of coordinates (y1,y2)" but your final result is NOT in standard form.

3. Aug 25, 2011

### Apple&Orange

Got it! Thanks!