Eigenvalues are real numbers and satisfy inequality

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the properties of eigenvalues of the matrix expression $A + A^{\star}$, where $A$ is a complex unitary matrix. It is established that the eigenvalues $\lambda$ are real numbers constrained by the inequality $-2 \leq \lambda \leq 2$. The participants explore the implications of the unitary matrix property $AA^{+} = I$ and consider the minimal polynomial of $A + A^{\star}$ to demonstrate these characteristics. A specific example matrix $A = \begin{pmatrix}0&-1\\ 1&0\end{pmatrix}$ is discussed to illustrate potential confusion regarding eigenvalue types.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex unitary matrices
  • Knowledge of eigenvalues and eigenvectors
  • Familiarity with matrix operations, specifically addition and conjugation
  • Basic concepts of polynomial theory, particularly minimal polynomials
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of unitary matrices in detail
  • Learn about the spectral theorem for normal matrices
  • Explore the derivation of minimal polynomials for matrices
  • Investigate the implications of eigenvalue bounds in linear algebra
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students of linear algebra, and anyone interested in the spectral properties of matrices, particularly in the context of complex unitary matrices and their eigenvalues.

evinda
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Hello! (Wave)

Let $A$ be a $n \times n$ complex unitary matrix. I want to show that the eigenvalues $\lambda$ of the matrix $A+A^{\star}$ are real numbers that satisfy the relation $-2 \leq \lambda \leq 2$.

I have looked up the definitions and I read that a unitary matrix is a square matrix for which $AA^{+}=I$.

(The transpose matrix of $A^{\star}$ is symbolized with $A^{+}$.)

($A^{\star}$: complex conjugate)In order to show that the eigenvalues $\lambda$ of the matrix $A+A^{\star}$ are real numbers and satisfy that $-2 \leq \lambda \leq 2$, do we maybe have to find the minimal polynomial of the matrix $A+A^{\star}$ ? If so, how? Is there a relation? Or do we have to do it somehow else? (Thinking)
 
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Hey evinda!

Suppose we pick $A=\begin{pmatrix}0&-1\\ 1&0\end{pmatrix}$.
Then aren't the eigenvalues of $A+A^*$ imaginary? (Worried)

Can it be that $A+A^+$ was intended?

To find an upper magnitude of 2, did you consider that $\|A\mathbf x\| = \|\mathbf x\|$, which is a property of a unitary matrix? (Wondering)
 

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