Defining a statement (Vector Algebra)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on defining the concept of a spanning set in vector algebra. It clarifies that the statement "the set {v1, v2,..., vn} spans V" indicates that any vector in the vector space V can be expressed as a linear combination of the vectors in the set. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding linear dependence and independence, noting that more information about the vector space is needed to determine these properties. It also suggests that the definition of "span" should be referenced from the textbook. Ultimately, the key takeaway is that the set must cover the entire vector space through linear combinations.
JFonseka
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Homework Statement



Let V be a vector space over the field F. Define what is meant by the statement
"For vectors v1, v2,...,vn belonging to V, the set {v1,v2,...,vn} spans V

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The Attempt at a Solution



Does it mean that the set is linearly dependent?
 
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You can't tell whether the vectors are linearly dependent or linearly independent without knowing more about your vector space V.

Doesn't your book have a definition of the term "span"?
 
So it is a spanning set for V?
 
The problem tells you that this set spans V. You are supposed to say what this means.
 
I picked up this problem from the Schaum's series book titled "College Mathematics" by Ayres/Schmidt. It is a solved problem in the book. But what surprised me was that the solution to this problem was given in one line without any explanation. I could, therefore, not understand how the given one-line solution was reached. The one-line solution in the book says: The equation is ##x \cos{\omega} +y \sin{\omega} - 5 = 0##, ##\omega## being the parameter. From my side, the only thing I could...

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