Linear Algebra I: Orthogonal Matrix Condition

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Dembadon
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I would like to check my reasoning for this problem to make sure I understand what an orthogonal matrix is.

Homework Statement



Determine if the matrix is orthogonal. If orthogonal, find the inverse.

[tex] \begin{pmatrix}<br /> -1 & 2 & 2\\<br /> 2 & -1 & 2\\<br /> 2 & 2 & -1<br /> \end{pmatrix}[/tex]

Homework Equations



If a matrix [itex]A[/itex] is orthogonal, then
[tex] A^{-1} = A^T.[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



One of the conditions that must be met for a matrix to be orthogonal is that the length of the vectors spanning its column space must be 1, correct? So, if we let
[tex] A=\begin{pmatrix}<br /> -1 & 2 & 2\\<br /> 2 & -1 & 2\\<br /> 2 & 2 & -1<br /> \end{pmatrix}=(\mathbf{a}_1,\mathbf{a}_2,\mathbf{a}_3),[/tex]
then
[tex] ||\mathbf{a}_1||^2 \neq 1,[/tex]
so a condition for orthogonality has been violated. Thus, [itex]A[/itex] is not orthogonal and there is no need to continue with the problem.

Another way to put it would be to say that the [itex]Col\ A[/itex] is not an orthonormal set, so [itex]A[/itex] is not orthogonal. Is this correct?
 
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micromass said:
That is all correct!

Thanks, micro! :smile: