Linear Algebra (Transform a Basis Set)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a linear transformation T from vector space U to vector space V, specifically examining the implications of transforming a basis set B of U through T. Participants are exploring the properties of the resulting set T(B) and its relationship to spanning and linear independence in the context of linear algebra.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the validity of various statements regarding the properties of T(B), questioning which of the options (a-e) are true based on the relationship between U and V, and the nature of the transformation T. There is a focus on the implications of the kernel of T and the definitions of spanning and basis.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered insights regarding the dimensionality of U and V, and the role of the kernel in determining whether T(B) spans V or is linearly independent. There is an acknowledgment that the linearity of T is a critical factor, and a theorem is referenced that relates the basis of U to the range of T.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of U and V potentially having different dimensions, which affects the validity of certain statements about spanning and linear independence. The discussion also touches on the need for clarity regarding the definitions and properties of linear transformations.

DanielFaraday
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Homework Statement



If [tex]T:U\rightarrow V[/tex] is any linear transformation from U to V and [tex]B=\left\{u_1,u_2,\text{...},u_n\right\}[/tex] is a basis for U, then the set [tex]T(B)=\left\{T\left(u_1\right),T\left(u_2\right),\text{...} T\left(u_n\right)\right\}[/tex]

a. spans V.
b. spans U.
c. is a basis for V.
d. is linearly independent.
e. spans the range of T.

Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution



It seems to me like all of these things are true (which is wrong of course). But in the example below, the result of the transformation does in fact meet all of the above criteria. What am I missing here?

[tex] u_1=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 1 \\<br /> 0 \\<br /> 0<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
[tex] u_2=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 0 \\<br /> 1 \\<br /> 0<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
[tex] u_3=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 0 \\<br /> 0 \\<br /> 1<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
[tex] T(x,y,z)=(x,2y,3z)[/tex]
[tex] T\left(u_1\right)=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 1 \\<br /> 0 \\<br /> 0<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
[tex] T\left(u_2\right)=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 0 \\<br /> 2 \\<br /> 0<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
[tex] T\left(u_3\right)=\left(<br /> \begin{array}{c}<br /> 0 \\<br /> 0 \\<br /> 3<br /> \end{array}<br /> \right)[/tex]
 
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T(B) couldn't very well span U if U and V are different sized vector spaces, so that let's out b. And T(B) might or might not span V, depending on the dimension of the kernel of T. For example, if T(u) = 0, T(B) couldn't possibly span V, and the vectors in T(B) couldn't possibly be linearly independent, and therefore couldn't be a basis for V.
 
Mark44 said:
T(B) couldn't very well span U if U and V are different sized vector spaces, so that let's out b. And T(B) might or might not span V, depending on the dimension of the kernel of T. For example, if T(u) = 0, T(B) couldn't possibly span V, and the vectors in T(B) couldn't possibly be linearly independent, and therefore couldn't be a basis for V.

Great point. Thinking of T(u) = 0 is very helpful. That basically eliminates everything except e doesn't it.

Okay, I think I got it. The reason why e is the correct answer is because we know that the transformation is linear, correct?
 
I think there's more to it than just that the transformation is linear. Seems like I remember a theorem that says that if T:U --> V is a linear transformation, and B = {u1, u2, ..., un} is a basis for U, then B = {T(u1), T(u2), ..., T(un)} spans the range of T.
 
Mark44 said:
I think there's more to it than just that the transformation is linear. Seems like I remember a theorem that says that if T:U --> V is a linear transformation, and B = {u1, u2, ..., un} is a basis for U, then B = {T(u1), T(u2), ..., T(un)} spans the range of T.

Okay. It makes sense, too.

Thanks! I am posting one more question as well (a True/False this time). Maybe you could take a look?
 
Since [itex]\{u_1, u_2, \cdot\cdot\cdot, u_n\}[/itex] form a basis for U, any vector in U can be written as a linear combination [itex]u= a_1u_1+ a_2u_2+ \cdot\cdot\cdot a_nu_n[/itex]. And that means that any vector in the range of T is of the form [itex]T(u)= a_1T(u_1)+ a_2T(u_2)+ \cdot\cdot\cdot+ a_nT(u_n)[/itex]. That says that [itex]\{T(u_1), T(u_2), \cdot\cdot\cdot, T(u_n)\}[/itex] spans the range of T.
 

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