Find vectors that span a subspace

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding a pair of vectors that span the subspace defined by the equation x+y-2z=0 in R3. The vectors (-1, 1, 0) and (2, 0, 1) are identified as spanning this subspace, derived from the general form (2z-y, y, z) by extracting parameters y and z. This set of vectors is confirmed to be linearly independent and serves as a basis for the subspace, fulfilling the requirements of the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear algebra concepts, specifically vector spaces and subspaces.
  • Familiarity with the equation of a plane in three-dimensional space.
  • Knowledge of linear combinations and their properties.
  • Ability to determine linear independence of vectors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of vector spaces and subspaces in linear algebra.
  • Learn how to derive bases for subspaces from given equations.
  • Explore the properties of linear independence and dependence among vectors.
  • Practice finding spanning sets for various linear equations in R3.
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra, as well as anyone seeking to understand vector spaces and their properties in three-dimensional space.

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Homework Statement


Find a pair of vectors that span the subspace x+y-2z=0 of R3.

Homework Equations


x+y-2z=0

The Attempt at a Solution


I just guessed some numbers since its such a simple equation and came up with (1,-1,0) and (2,0,1). I was just wondering what the standard method is to figure this out.. Thanks!
 
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Well, if a vector is in your subspace, the it must be of the form (2z-y, y, z). If you "extract" y and z as parameters, you have (2z-y, y, z) = y(-1, 1, 0) + z(2, 0, 1). Since (2z-y, y, z) is arbitrarily chosen, it follows that the set {(-1, 1, 0), (2, 0, 1)} spans your subspace, since we have a "rule" on how to obtain the coefficients of the linear combination of these two vectors. Even more, this set is linearly independent, and is actually a basis for your subspace, which is even stronger that what you needed to find.
 
AH! thank you so much! that was driving me crazy!
 

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