Help simplify the matrix equation

In summary, The conversation is about a problem with simplifying an equation involving an orthonormal matrix A, a symmetric matrix X, and the operator diag(A) that creates a diagonal matrix of A. There is some confusion about the definition of diag(A), with one person asking for clarification and another person questioning if A is diagonalizable. The definition of diag(A) is clarified as being a square matrix with all non-diagonal entries equal to 0 and the diagonal entries being the diagonal of A.
  • #1
tom08
19
0
I encounter a problem when simplifying the following equation, can anyone give a hint:)

Let A denote an orthonormal matrix, X be a symmetric matrix.

diag(A) is an operator that creates a diagonal matrix of A.

Then, my problem is how to simplify the equation:

[tex]A^{-1} \cdot diag(A \cdot X \cdot A^{-1}) \cdot A[/tex]
 
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  • #2
"diag(A) is an operator that creates a diagonal matrix of A."

That doesn't tell us enough. There are many ways to make a diagonal matrix out of A, for example, just setting all non-diagonal values equal to 0. Do you mean "diag(A) is a diagonal matrix similar to A"? In that case, are we to assume that A is diagonalizable?
 
  • #3
HallsofIvy said:
"diag(A) is an operator that creates a diagonal matrix of A."

That doesn't tell us enough. There are many ways to make a diagonal matrix out of A, for example, just setting all non-diagonal values equal to 0. Do you mean "diag(A) is a diagonal matrix similar to A"? In that case, are we to assume that A is diagonalizable?

Sorry, I'll clarify the defitioon of diag (A).

diag(A) is a square matrix in which the entries outside the diagonal are all zero, and its diagonal entries are the diagonal of A.
 

FAQ: Help simplify the matrix equation

What is a matrix equation?

A matrix equation is an equation in which matrices are used to represent the relationships between variables. It typically involves multiplying or adding matrices to solve for unknown values.

Why is it important to simplify a matrix equation?

Simplifying a matrix equation makes it easier to solve and understand. It also allows for quicker calculations and reduces the chances of making errors.

What are some techniques for simplifying a matrix equation?

Some techniques for simplifying a matrix equation include using the properties of matrices, such as the distributive property and the associative property, and performing operations such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

Can you provide an example of simplifying a matrix equation?

Sure, consider the equation 2(A + B) = 4C. To simplify, we can distribute the 2, giving us 2A + 2B = 4C. Then, we can divide both sides by 2, resulting in A + B = 2C. This is a simpler form of the original equation.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when simplifying a matrix equation?

Yes, common mistakes when simplifying a matrix equation include forgetting to distribute coefficients, not following the order of operations, and incorrectly performing operations on matrices with different dimensions.

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