Finding the missing vector such that the matrix is orthonormal

  • Thread starter Thread starter g.lemaitre
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Matrix Vector
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the missing vector to complete a matrix and ensure it is orthonormal. The matrix in question is given as \begin{bmatrix} \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} & x \\ \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} & y \\ \end{bmatrix}. To achieve orthonormality, the conditions \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}x + \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} = 0 and \sqrt{x^2 + y^2} = 1 must be satisfied. The user attempted to solve the problem by setting x = y but reached a dead end, indicating the need for further exploration of the orthonormality conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orthonormal matrices
  • Knowledge of vector magnitudes and dot products
  • Familiarity with linear algebra concepts
  • Ability to solve equations involving square roots
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of orthonormal matrices in linear algebra
  • Learn how to compute dot products and vector magnitudes
  • Explore methods for solving systems of equations
  • Investigate the Gram-Schmidt process for orthonormalization
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra, as well as anyone interested in understanding matrix properties and orthonormality.

g.lemaitre
Messages
267
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


A matrix is orthonormal if the magnitude of its vectors = 1 and all vector pairs are perpendicular, that is, their dot product = 0. Find the missing vector which would make the following matrix orthonormal:
[tex] \begin{bmatrix}<br /> \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}} & x \\<br /> \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} & y \\<br /> \end{bmatrix}[/tex]
Most textbooks use [tex]x_1 and x_2[/tex] but I find x and y easier

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


[tex] \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}x + \frac{2}{\sqrt{5}} = 0 ... space here ... <br /> \sqrt{x^2 + y^2} = 1[/tex]
I tried setting x = y and I got
[tex] \frac{1}{\sqrt{5}}x = -\frac{2}{\sqrt{5}}[/tex]
But that's as far as I could with that problem.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I solved this problem.
 
I've solved this problem.
 

Similar threads

Replies
10
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K