Linear Algebra- Scalar Multiplication

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on scalar multiplication in the context of 2x2 matrices, specifically addressing the operation defined as k ⊗ [a b c d] = [ka b c kd]. The key conclusion is that statement E, which claims (k+s) ⊗ (matrix) = k ⊗ (matrix) + s ⊗ (matrix), is false. This is proven by demonstrating that there exists at least one instance of k, s, and A in M2 where the equality does not hold. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the properties of scalar multiplication in linear algebra.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 2x2 matrices and their operations
  • Familiarity with scalar multiplication in linear algebra
  • Knowledge of matrix addition and its properties
  • Basic concepts of mathematical proofs and counterexamples
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of linear transformations in relation to matrices
  • Explore the concept of vector spaces and their axioms
  • Learn about the implications of matrix operations on linear independence
  • Investigate counterexamples in linear algebra to strengthen proof techniques
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of matrix operations and scalar multiplication properties.

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Homework Statement



Let M2 denote the set of all 2x2 matrices. We define addition with the standard addition of matrices, but with scalar multiplication given by:

k \otimes [a b c d] = [ka b c kd] (note that they are matrices)


Where k is a scalar. Which of the following fails to hold?

a. m2 is closed under scalar multiplication
b. (ks)matrix = k \otimes ( s \otimes (matrix)
c. 1 \otimes (matrix) = (matrix)
d. k \otimes(matrix + matrix') = k (matrix) + k (matrix') [Too lazy to inpute the otimes]
e. (k+s) (matrix) = k(matrix) + s(matrix)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I think the answer is E because if you multiply k+s to the matrix first then you can't split them.
 
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FinalStand said:

Homework Statement



Let M2 denote the set of all 2x2 matrices. We define addition with the standard addition of matrices, but with scalar multiplication given by:

k \otimes [a b c d] = [ka b c kd] (note that they are matrices)


Where k is a scalar. Which of the following fails to hold?

a. m2 is closed under scalar multiplication
b. (ks)matrix = k \otimes ( s \otimes (matrix)
c. 1 \otimes (matrix) = (matrix)
d. k \otimes(matrix + matrix') = k (matrix) + k (matrix') [Too lazy to inpute the otimes]
e. (k+s) (matrix) = k(matrix) + s(matrix)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I think the answer is E because if you multiply k+s to the matrix first then you can't split them.
That's right. Note that all you have to do to prove that the statement
$$\text{For all }A\in M_2(\mathbb R)\text{ and all }k,s\in\mathbb R\text{, we have }(k+s)\otimes A=k\otimes A+s\otimes A.$$ is false is to show that there's one choice of k,s,A such that ##(k+s)\otimes A\neq k\otimes A+s\otimes A##.
 

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