Finding Linearly Independent Vectors in Subspaces

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves identifying two linearly independent vectors from the set of vectors that belong to the subspaces spanned by given vectors in \(\mathbb{R}^4\). The vectors are categorized into two groups, \(V_1\) and \(V_2\), and the task is to find vectors in the combined set \(W\) that meet the criteria of linear independence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the coordinates of the vectors in \(V_1\) and \(V_2\) on the types of vectors that can be generated. There is a focus on understanding how to select vectors that are independent and belong to \(W\). Some participants question the reasoning behind the selection criteria for the vectors.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the characteristics of the vectors in \(V_1\) and \(V_2\). Some participants have suggested specific vectors, while others are clarifying the reasoning behind their choices. The discussion is productive, with hints and guidance being shared, but no consensus has been reached on the final selection of vectors.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the constraints of homework rules, which require them to explain their reasoning and ensure that the vectors chosen are linearly independent and belong to the defined set \(W\).

Faiq
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Homework Statement


The vectors ##a_1, a_2, a_3, b_1, b_2, b_3## are given below
$$\ a_1 = (3~ 2~ 1 ~0) ~~a_2 = (1~ 1~ 0~ 0) ~~ a_3 = (0~ 0~ 1~ 0)~~ b_1 = (3~ 2~ 0~ 2)~~ b_2 = (2 ~2~ 0~ 1)~~ b_3 = (1~ 1~ 0~ 1) $$
The subspace of ## \mathbb R^4 ## spanned by ##a_1, a_2, a_3## is denoted by ##V_1## and the subspace of ## \mathbb R^4 ## spanned by ##b_1, b_2, b_3## is denoted by ##V_2##

The set of vectors which consists a zero vector and all vectors which belong to ##V_1## and ##V_2## is denoted by ##W##.

Write down two linearly independent vectors which belong to ##W##

The Attempt at a Solution


Can somebody please explain how to get the independent vectors? I am very aware of the definition of independent vectors. However, I cannot seem to relate the definition and use it to solve this question.
 
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Hint: a1, a2, and a3 all have 0 as their 4'th coordinate, so they can not generate any vector with a nonzero 4'th coordinate.
 
And ##b_1, b_2, b_3## all have 0 as their 3rd coordinate, so they cannot generate any vector with a nonzero 3rd coordinate
Thus the resulting vector should be ##(p~q~0~0)##
Correct?
 
Faiq said:
And ##b_1, b_2, b_3## all have 0 as their 3rd coordinate, so they cannot generate any vector with a nonzero 3rd coordinate
Thus the resulting vector should be ##(p~q~0~0)##
Correct?
You need to find two vectors. Look for one in V2 that could not be a linear combination of the ais and look for a vector in V1 that could not be a linear combination of the bis
 
a3 and b3?
And the reasoning behind the special criteria for choosing the vector is this right? If I were to choose a vector in V1 which was a linear combination of V2 vectors, then I would technically be choosing just V2 vectors and not taking into account the V1 vectors.
 
Faiq said:
a3 and b3?
In homework, you would want to briefly explain why the two you pick are in W and are linearly independent. Use the definition of linearly independent.
 
Thank you very much for your help
 

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