Eigenvectors, does order matter?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

In the discussion regarding eigenvectors, it is established that the order of components in an eigenvector does matter; for example, the vector [1 0 2]^t is distinct from [0 1 2]^t and [1 2 0]^t. Additionally, any scalar multiple of an eigenvector is also considered an eigenvector, such as [2 0 4] or [4 0 8]. The distinction between different orderings of vectors is crucial in linear algebra, as it affects their representation and properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear algebra concepts, specifically eigenvectors and eigenvalues.
  • Familiarity with vector notation and operations.
  • Knowledge of scalar multiplication in vector spaces.
  • Basic grasp of matrix transformations and their implications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of eigenvalues and eigenvectors in linear transformations.
  • Learn about the geometric interpretation of eigenvectors in relation to matrix transformations.
  • Explore the concept of linear independence and its relevance to eigenvectors.
  • Investigate the implications of eigenvectors in applications such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA).
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra, as well as data scientists and engineers applying eigenvector concepts in machine learning and data analysis.

charlies1902
Messages
162
Reaction score
0
I got 2 questions about eigenvectors.

Let's say you have an eigenvector [1 0 2]^t.


1. Does the order matter? Like can I change the order to [0 1 2]^t or [1 2 0]^t?


2. It can be any scalar multiple of the vector right? Like I could have [2 0 4] or [4 0 8]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
charlies1902 said:
I got 2 questions about eigenvectors.

Let's say you have an eigenvector [1 0 2]^t.


1. Does the order matter? Like can I change the order to [0 1 2]^t or [1 2 0]^t?


2. It can be any scalar multiple of the vector right? Like I could have [2 0 4] or [4 0 8]

Scalar multiples are still eigenvectors, sure. Show me why. Does order of the components in the vector matter? What would make you think it doesn't??
 
The vector <1, 0, 0> is NOT the same as the vector <0, 1, 0> which appears to be what you are asking!
 

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K