Help finding eigenvectors to simple 2x2 matrix

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding eigenvectors for the 2x2 matrix defined by the system x'=[-0.5 1; -1 -0.5]. The eigenvalues calculated are r1 = -0.5+i and r2 = -0.5-i. The user derived two equations from the eigenvector calculations but was confused about the next steps. A participant clarified that the two equations have the same ratio and suggested multiplying the second equation by i to simplify the process of finding the eigenvector.

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Homework Statement


Find a fundamental set of real solutions of the system.
x'=[-0.5 1 ]x
[-1 -0.5]

The Attempt at a Solution


I calculated the eigenvalues to be r1 = -0.5+i and r2 = -0.5-i
Then, attempting to calculate the eigenvectors,
I plugged the numbers into the system
[-0.5+0.5-i 1][v1] = [0]
[-1 -0.5+0.5-i ][v2] [0]
which simplifies to be
[-i 1] [v1] = [0]
[-1 -i ][v2] [0]
afer matrix multiplication, I get two formulas
-1(v1)i+(v2)=0
-1(v1)-(v2)i=0
However, I am at a loss for the next step. Usually when I am finding the eigenvector those two equations will have the same ratio. Please advise.
 
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Your two formulas do have the same ratio:wink:...Just multiply the second equation by i.
 
thanks guy! I can't believe i didn't see that!
 

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