Does u belong in span(x, v, w) given x not in span(v, w)?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves vectors u, v, w, and x within a vector space V, specifically examining the relationship between these vectors given that x is not in the span of v and w, while x is in the span of u, v, and w. The central question is whether this implies that u is in the span of x, v, and w.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definition of a span and how vectors can be expressed in terms of others. There are attempts to manipulate the relationships between the vectors to explore implications and contradictions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing hints and exploring different expressions for the vectors involved. Some participants are questioning the assumptions made about the relationships between the vectors, while others are attempting to clarify the implications of the definitions involved.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the correct interpretation of the relationships between the vectors, particularly in how to express u in terms of x, v, and w. The original poster has indicated a lack of clarity on how to approach the problem.

misterau
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Homework Statement



Suppose that u, v, w and x are vectors in a vector space V . If x !∈ span(v,w) and x ∈ span(u, v,w),
does it follow that u ∈ span(x, v,w)? Justify your answer.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Not really sure how to even start this problem. Any hints would be good thanks!
 
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Hi misterau

I would start with the definition of a span, or how any vector in a given span can be written...
 
I really not sure, probably not correct...
x != c1*v + c2*w
x = c1*v + c2*w + c3*u
u = c1*v + c2*w + c4*x

c1*v + c2*w != c1*v + c2*w + c3*u
0 != c3*(c1*v + c2*w + c4*x)
0 != c1*v + c2*w + c4*x
 
First hint:
Given:
x != c1*v + c2*w
x = c1*v + c2*w + c3*u

you know that c3 != 0.

Second hint:
Starting from this, can you find a more explicit expression for u in terms of x,v,w and c1,c2 and c3?
 

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