Solve Unique Decomposition Problem: Linear Algebra Vectors & Scalars

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In summary, we are given a vector space V and a linear map ℓ : V → R. If z ∈ V is not in the nullspace of ℓ, we need to show that every x ∈ V can be uniquely decomposed as x = v + cz, where v is in the nullspace of ℓ and c is a scalar. The proof can be divided into two cases: 1) x is in the nullspace of ℓ, and 2) x is not in the nullspace of ℓ. In the second case, we can use the fact that l(x) = cl(z) for some nonzero c, and consider x - cz to show uniqueness of the decomposition.
  • #1
arshavin
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Let V be a vector space and ℓ : V → R be a linear map. If z ∈ V is not in the
nullspace of ℓ, show that every x ∈ V can be decomposed uniquely as x = v + cz ,
where v is in the nullspace of ℓ and c is a scalar.
 
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  • #2
I'll give the start of the proof:

There are two situations:
1) x is in the nullspace of l, then the statement is trivial.
2) x is not in the nullspace of l, then [tex]l(x)\neq 0[/tex] and [tex]l(z)\neq 0[/tex]. Thus, there exists a nonzero c, such that [tex]l(x)=cl(z)[/tex]. Try to continue the argument (hint: what happens to x-cz?
 

1. What is the unique decomposition problem in linear algebra?

The unique decomposition problem in linear algebra is the process of breaking down a given vector into a unique combination of other vectors, known as the basis vectors. This allows for a more efficient representation of the original vector in terms of simpler components.

2. How is the unique decomposition problem solved?

The unique decomposition problem is solved using a process called Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization. This involves finding the orthogonal basis for a given set of vectors, which can then be used to decompose any other vector in the same space.

3. Can the unique decomposition problem be solved for any vector?

Yes, the unique decomposition problem can be solved for any vector in a given vector space. This is because every vector can be expressed as a unique combination of basis vectors, and the process of orthogonalization ensures that this combination is unique.

4. What is the importance of solving the unique decomposition problem?

Solving the unique decomposition problem is important because it allows for a more efficient representation of vectors in terms of simpler components. This can be useful in various applications, such as data compression and signal processing.

5. Are there any real-world examples of the unique decomposition problem being used?

Yes, the unique decomposition problem is used in various real-world applications. One example is in image processing, where images are decomposed into their frequency components using the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) algorithm. Another example is in data compression, where vectors are decomposed into their principal components using the Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) method.

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