Eigenvalue and Eigenvector problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a given 3x3 matrix. The original poster presents a matrix and attempts to derive its eigenvalues and corresponding eigenvectors as part of a larger problem involving diagonalization.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to find eigenvalues by calculating the determinant of (A - λI) and expresses confusion about reading eigenvectors from the reduced matrix. Other participants question the correctness of the eigenvalues and discuss the concept of multiplicity related to the eigenvalue of 5. The original poster also seeks clarification on the process of finding eigenvectors for the eigenvalue of 5.

Discussion Status

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of the problem as posed, with some confusion noted regarding the eigenvalue calculations and the interpretation of the resulting matrices. The original poster is also navigating the requirements of homework expectations.

Mathman23
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Hi

Given a 3x3 matrix


[tex]A = \[ \left[ \begin{array}{ccc} 0 & 0 & 1+2i \\ 0 & 5 & 0 \\ 1-2i & 0 & 4 \end{array} \right][/tex]

I need to a another 3x3 which satisfacies

D = U^-1 A U

Step 1.

Finding the eigenvalues

[tex]0 = det(A- \lambda I ) = (0- \lambda)(\lambda - 5) (\lambda -4 ), \lambda = 5,4,0[/tex]

step 2.

Finding the eigenvectors.

A vector which satisfies (A-\lambda I) v = 0

For \lambda = 5


p(\lambda = 5) = [tex]\[ \left[ \begin{array}{ccc} -5 & 0 & 1+2i \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \\ 1-2i & 0 & -1 \end{array} \right][/tex] ~ [tex]\[ \left[ \begin{array}{ccc} 1 & 0 & -1/5-2/5i \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & 0 \end{array} \right][/tex]

How do I read the eigenvector from the reduced matrix ?

Sincerely Fred
 
Last edited:
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Your eigenvalues are wrong. Find the characteristic equation by working it out completely, and you'll find eigenvalues of -1, 5, and 5.
 
Is 5 then a what is called a double root ?

/Fred

daveb said:
Your eigenvalues are wrong. Find the characteristic equation by working it out completely, and you'll find eigenvalues of -1, 5, and 5.
 
Kind of. The eigenvalue with the value of five is said to have a multiplicity of two.
 
I found the first eigenvector for lambda = -1 to be [1+2i, 0, -1]^T

To find for lambda = 5, do I row reduce the matrix A-5I ?

If I put that matrix into reduced echelon form, I get [0,0,0], but that can't be right?

/Fred

Hammie said:
Kind of. The eigenvalue with the value of five is said to have a multiplicity of two.
 
Last edited:

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