Inner product with (1,1) tensors: Diff. Geometry/ Lin algebra

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on demonstrating that the tensor A, represented by the matrix A^{i}_{j} = [1 2; -2 1], is symmetric with respect to the inner product defined by the metric g = g_{ij} = [-1 0; 0 1]. The eigenvalues of A are confirmed to be ±i√3, indicating complex eigenvalues. However, the eigenvectors are shown to have zero length with respect to the complex inner product, which is computed using the metric g to lower indices of the tensor A.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tensor notation and operations, specifically (1,1) tensors.
  • Familiarity with inner products in differential geometry.
  • Knowledge of eigenvalues and eigenvectors in linear algebra.
  • Experience with matrix operations and complex numbers.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of symmetric tensors in differential geometry.
  • Learn how to compute inner products using metrics in tensor analysis.
  • Explore the implications of complex eigenvalues in linear transformations.
  • Investigate the relationship between eigenvectors and inner products in complex vector spaces.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying differential geometry, linear algebra, and tensor analysis, as well as anyone interested in the properties of complex eigenvalues and inner products.

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Homework Statement


Given g\equiv g_{ij} =
[-1 0;
0 1]

Show that A= A^{i}_{j} =
[1 2
-2 1]

is symmetric wrt innter product g, has complex eigenvalues, but eigenvectros have zero length wrt the complex inner product.


The Attempt at a Solution



Im sure this is just a simple linear algebra problem but I am having trouble figuring out how to compute the dot procut with this 1,1 tensor.

My guess would be to break the matrix A^{i}_{j} intro rows and compute { (row1)g(row2)^t} then to show this is symmetric calculate { (row2)g(row1)^t}. But that seems wrong.

I can calculate the eigenvalues (they come out to \pm i \sqrt{3} )

Also i am lost on showing the eigenvecotrs are 0 wrt the this inner product. I would have no idea how to approach this even if i knew how to calculate inner product.

Thanks in advance
 
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The metric g let's you lower the indices of A_i^j to get a tensor A_{ij}. Then the claim is that A_{ij} = A_{ji}. For the other part, I'm not quite sure what inner product they mean. I'm guessing g as a complex inner product?
 
Ok but as written, how do you compute that complex inner product?
 

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