Linear algebra-Basis of a linear map

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a linear algebra problem involving a linear map \( L: \mathbb{R}^{2} \to \mathbb{R}^{2} \) with specific properties, particularly that \( L^2 = O \). The original poster seeks to understand the conditions under which a basis can be formed such that \( L(A) = B \) and \( L(B) = O \).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the reasoning behind the linear independence of vectors \( A \) and \( B \) and the implications of the equation \( aA + bB = O \). They seek clarification on why the solutions \( a = 0 \) and \( b = 0 \) are sufficient to establish this independence.
  • Participants discuss the properties of linear maps, specifically how linearity affects the expression \( L(aA + bB) \) and its implications for the problem.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the nature of linear independence and the properties of linear maps. Clarifications regarding the implications of linearity are being explored, but no consensus has been reached on the original poster's questions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of the problem statement and the definitions of linear maps and bases in linear algebra. There is an emphasis on understanding the definitions and properties rather than deriving a complete solution.

manuel325
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Homework Statement



Let ##L: R^{2} → R^{2}## be a linear map such that ##L ≠ O## but## L^{2} = L \circ L = O.##
Show that there exists a basis {##A##, ##B##} of ##R^{2}## such that:

##L(A) = B## and ##L(B) = O.##​

The Attempt at a Solution


Here's the solution my book provides :
problem.JPG

Well I have two questions:
1.Why do they say that ##aA+bB=O##?. I mean I don't understand the solution from that point until the end (Why the solutions ##a=0## and ##b=0## are enough to prove the existence of that basis??May someone please explain??
Thanks in advance :smile:. Any help would be appreciated
 
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The solution says IF aA+bB=0, THEN a=b=0. That is what it means for the vectors A and B to be linearly independent. Vectors in a basis must be linearly independent.
 
krome said:
The solution says IF aA+bB=0, THEN a=b=0. That is what it means for the vectors A and B to be linearly independent. Vectors in a basis must be linearly independent.
Thanks but why ##O=L(aA+bB)=aL(A)##?? could you please explain what they do there, please??
 
manuel325 said:
Thanks but why ##O=L(aA+bB)=aL(A)##?? could you please explain what they do there, please??

L is a linear map, which means L(aA+bB) = aL(A) + bL(B).
 
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krome said:
L is a linear map, which means L(aA+bB) = aL(A) + bL(B).

Thanks :smile:
 

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