Linear Dependence/Independence

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In summary, for an n-dimensional Euclidean space, at least n vectors are needed for linear independence. However, if the space also includes an (n-1)-dimensional Euclidean space, it can also include a family of n-1 linearly independent vectors. For example, in three-dimensional Euclidean space, one, two, or three vectors can be linearly independent, but any more than three will be linearly dependent.
  • #1
Gear300
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It is stated that for n-dimensional Euclidean space, n vectors are needed at least for linear independence. But if an n-dimensional Euclidean space also includes (n-1)-dimensional Euclidean space, then why can't it also include a family of n-1 linearly independent vectors?
 
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  • #2
Gear300 said:
It is stated that for n-dimensional Euclidean space, n vectors are needed at least for linear independence. But if an n-dimensional Euclidean space also includes (n-1)-dimensional Euclidean space, then why can't it also include a family of n-1 linearly independent vectors?

It can. For example, in three dimensional Euclidean space the single vector (1,0,0) is linearly independent, as are the two vectors {(1,0,0), (0,1,0)} and the three vectors {(1,0,0), (0,1,0), (0,0,1)}. However, any four vectors in this space will necessarily be linearly dependent. Does that help?
 
  • #3
I get what you're saying. I mixed stuff up (thought too hard about the words "at least"). Thanks.
 
  • #4
More than n vectors cannot be independent in Rn. Less can be.
 

What is linear dependence?

Linear dependence refers to the relationship between two or more vectors in a vector space. A set of vectors is considered linearly dependent if at least one of the vectors in the set can be expressed as a linear combination of the other vectors.

How is linear dependence determined?

Linear dependence can be determined by using the definition of linear dependence mentioned above. Additionally, a set of vectors is considered linearly dependent if the determinant of the matrix formed by the vectors is equal to 0.

What is the difference between linear independence and linear dependence?

The main difference between linear independence and linear dependence is that in linear independence, none of the vectors in the set can be expressed as a linear combination of the other vectors. In linear dependence, at least one vector can be expressed as a linear combination of the other vectors.

Why is linear dependence important in linear algebra?

Linear dependence is important in linear algebra because it helps determine whether a set of vectors spans the entire vector space. If a set of vectors is linearly dependent, it means that some of the vectors can be removed without changing the span of the set, making it easier to work with and analyze.

How is linear dependence used in real-world applications?

Linear dependence is used in real-world applications, such as data analysis and machine learning, to identify and eliminate redundant or irrelevant features. In economics, linear dependence can also help determine the relationships between different variables in a system.

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