Describing Matrix/Transformation by Eigens.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of linear transformations and their associated matrices, particularly focusing on eigenvalues and the implications of a unique eigenvalue of 1. Participants explore whether such a matrix must be a rotation matrix and examine the geometric interpretation of row operations in relation to solution subspaces of linear equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if a linear map T with a unique eigenvalue l=1 implies that the associated matrix M is necessarily a rotation matrix about the eigenspace.
  • Another participant provides a counterexample with a specific matrix to argue that M is not necessarily a rotation matrix.
  • A different participant discusses the geometric interpretation of adding a multiple of one row to another in a system of linear equations, suggesting it may have the effect of rotating n-planes about the solution subspace.
  • There is a request for clarification on what is meant by the "solution subspace" in the context of the discussion.
  • The participant elaborates on their context, describing a non-contradictory homogeneous system of linear equations and the preservation of solutions through fundamental row operations.
  • The participant expresses a desire to prove that the operation of adding a multiple of row i to row j results in a rotation of the n-planes about the solution subspace, referencing the fundamental theorem of linear algebra.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach consensus on whether a matrix with a unique eigenvalue of 1 must be a rotation matrix, as there is a counterexample provided. Additionally, the discussion on the geometric interpretation of row operations remains exploratory and unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about the nature of linear transformations and the geometric implications of row operations, which may depend on specific definitions and contexts that are not fully articulated.

WWGD
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Hi, All:

Say T:R^n --->R^n is a linear map , and that the associated matrix M has a unique eigenvalue l=1. Is M necessarily a rotation matrix about the eigenspace?

Thanks.
 
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No - e.g. consider ##\left(\begin{smallmatrix} 1 & 1 \\ 0 & 1\end{smallmatrix}\right)##.
 
I see. I am trying to show that by applying kri+rj , i.e., adding a multiple of k times row i to

row j one row to another row has the effect of rotating one of the k-planes about the

solution subspace, since this is the only way I can conceive that the operation kri+rj

preserves the solution to the system. Can you see how I else I can show this?
 
Solution subspace of what?
 
Well, I have a soluble , i.e., non-contradictory (homogeneous) system of linear equations .

The fundamental row operations--exchange rows, add a multiple of one

row to another row-- preserve the solutions to the system. If we look at the

solution S to the system geometrically, this is a subspace, possibly trivial. I'm trying

to show that the operation of adding a multiple of row i to row j has the effect of

rotating the n-planes in the system of equations about the solution- space S.

I think the affine case--for non-homogeneous systems, is similar. I've been using

the fundamental theorem of linear algebra that Bacle had mentioned in a similar

problem, but I still can't prove this.
 

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