Linear algebra proof with annihilator

In summary, the conversation is discussing how to prove that for two subspaces W1 and W2 of a finite-dimensional vector space V over F, if their annihilators are equal, then the subspaces themselves are also equal. The conversation mentions using the basics and the definition of the dual space V* to show this relationship. The first part of the problem involves proving that the annihilator is a subspace of V*, and the second part involves using this fact to prove the given statement.
  • #1
ptolema
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Homework Statement



V is a finite-dimensional vector space over F.
For subspaces W1 and W2 of V, prove that
prove.jpg


Homework Equations



V* is dual space of V, defined V*=the set of all linear functionals

For every subset S of V, define annihilator
annihilator.jpg


w1.jpg

w2.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not really sure where to start. I proved in a previous part of the problem that the annihilator is a subspace of V*. I tried to argue that for two subspaces of a vector space, one of the subspaces is a subset of the other, but I don't know if that's even a valid theorem. Could someone shed some light on this?
 
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  • #2
Just use the basics. You have to show [itex]W_1=W_2 \Leftrightarrow W_1^0=W_2^0[/itex]

So start by showing [itex]W_1=W_2 \Rightarrow W_1^0=W_2^0[/itex] which looks to be trivial. So what about the other way: [itex]W_1^0=W_2^0\Rightarrow W_1=W_2[/itex]

If W1 ≠ W2 then ...
 
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1. What is the definition of an annihilator in linear algebra?

An annihilator in linear algebra is a subspace that contains all vectors that are perpendicular to a given vector or set of vectors. In other words, it is the set of all vectors that will result in a zero dot product when multiplied with the given vector(s).

2. How is an annihilator used in proving linear algebra theorems?

An annihilator is used in proving linear algebra theorems by providing a way to show that a certain vector or set of vectors is orthogonal to another vector or set of vectors. This can be used to prove properties such as linear independence, dimensionality, and the existence of a basis for a vector space.

3. What is the connection between the annihilator and the null space of a matrix?

The annihilator of a set of vectors is closely related to the null space of a matrix. The null space of a matrix is the set of all vectors that will result in a zero vector when multiplied with the matrix. This is similar to the concept of the annihilator, as it also involves finding vectors that will result in a zero dot product.

4. How can the annihilator be used to find the orthogonal complement of a subspace?

The annihilator can be used to find the orthogonal complement of a subspace by finding the set of vectors that are perpendicular to all vectors in the given subspace. This is essentially finding the set of vectors in the annihilator of the subspace, which will form the orthogonal complement.

5. Are there any practical applications of the concept of an annihilator in real-world scenarios?

Yes, there are several practical applications of the concept of an annihilator in real-world scenarios. For example, in computer graphics, the concept of an annihilator is used to find the normal vector to a surface, which is crucial in determining the shading of a 3D object. It is also used in physics and engineering to solve problems involving forces and vector quantities.

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