Linear Independence: Proving Dependence & Independence of Vectors, Sets

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the concept of linear independence and dependence of vectors within a vector space V. It establishes that two nonzero vectors u and v are linearly dependent if there exists a scalar k such that v = ku, and they are independent if neither vector is a multiple of the other. Furthermore, a set of vectors S = {v1, v2, ..., vk} is linearly dependent if at least one vector in S can be expressed as a linear combination of the others. The discussion also addresses the relationship between a subspace W and the span of S, clarifying that W must contain S to demonstrate that it includes span S.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector spaces and their properties
  • Familiarity with the definitions of linear independence and dependence
  • Knowledge of linear combinations and spans of sets of vectors
  • Basic grasp of subspaces in linear algebra
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the definitions and properties of linear combinations in vector spaces
  • Learn about the concept of span and its implications in linear algebra
  • Explore theorems related to linear independence, such as the Basis Theorem
  • Investigate examples of proving linear dependence and independence in various vector spaces
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Students and educators in linear algebra, mathematicians, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of vector spaces and the principles of linear independence and dependence.

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1) Let u and v be nonzero vectors in a vector space V. show that u and v are linearly dependent if and only if there is a scalar k such that v = ku. Equivalently, u and v are linearly independent if and only if neither vector is a multiple of the other.

2) Let S = {v1, v2, ..., vk} be a set of vectors in a vector space V. Prove that S is linearly dependent if and only if one of the vectors in S is a linear combination of all the other vectors in S.

For these two questions, I know I have to prove them in both directions because of "if and only of". However, how to approach this problem? what Thms or definition should I use to prove them?

3) Let S = {v1, v2, ..., vk} be a set of vectors in a vector space V, and let W be a subspace of V containing S. Show that W contains span S.

For question 3, does "W be a subspace of V containing S" mean W contains S? If yes, what is the reason to show it?
 
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What did you try already? What is your definition for linear independence?
 

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