Is it possible to have a diagonal matrix with all eigenvalues = zero ?

If the only eigenvalue is zero, can you ever get a set of n linearly independent vectors?In summary, if the only eigenvalue of a matrix is zero, then the columns of the matrix cannot be linearly independent. However, it is still possible to find a set of linearly independent eigenvectors by using any set of linearly independent vectors.
  • #1
gamerninja213
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Homework Statement




If the only eigenvalue is zero, can you ever get a set of n linearly independent vectors?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
In response to the question in the subject, the zero matrix is diagonal and all its eigenvalues are zero.

In response to the question in the problem statement, if even one eigenvalue is zero, then by definition that means Ax = 0 for some nonzero x. Thus the columns of the matrix cannot be linearly independent.
 
  • #3
The only eigenvalue of the zero matrix is 0. You can certainly find a set of linearly independent eigenvectors. ANY set of linearly independent vectors will do it. Is that all you are asking?
 
  • #4
The question in the headline statement was a typo sorry.

Thx to answers

Meant to ask the question in the problem statement
 
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