linear programming, polyhedron and extreme points

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the properties of extreme points in a polyhedron, specifically whether extreme points can be linearly dependent. Participants explore this concept within the context of linear programming and geometric interpretations of polyhedra.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent, providing a scenario with a polyhedron defined by the constraints Ax <= b and rank(A) = n.
  • Another participant reiterates the initial question and presents a specific example of a triangle in R^2 to illustrate the concept.
  • A further inquiry is made about whether any two extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent, seeking a proof for this assertion.
  • One participant asserts that it is trivial for two points to be linearly dependent, citing an example of a square where one vertex is dependent on another.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the linear dependence of extreme points, with some asserting that it is possible while others seek clarification and proof. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the generality of the claim.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the conditions under which extreme points can be linearly dependent, and the discussion includes various assumptions about the properties of polyhedra.

mertcan
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Hi,

First assume that there is a polyhedron P, where Ax<=b and x is free variable whose dimension is n. Besides, rank(A) = n. I really wonder if extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent? I used even ChatGPT, but it includes some shaky calculations while proofing. In short, if extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent or not, could you provide me with a proof?

Thanks
 
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mertcan said:
Hi,

First assume that there is a polyhedron P, where Ax<=b and x is free variable whose dimension is n. Besides, rank(A) = n. I really wonder if extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent? I used even ChatGPT, but it includes some shaky calculations while proofing. In short, if extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent or not, could you provide me with a proof?

Thanks
As an example you can consider a triangle in the plane R^2 with vertices
A=(0,1)
B=(1,0)
C=(1,1)

x<=1
y<=1
x+y>=1 ( -x-y<=-1 )
 
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very thanks for your reply. Well, may I ask if ANY TWO extreme points in a polyhedron can be linearly dependent or not (those 2 extreme points are multiple of each other or not), could you provide me with a proof?

Thanks
 
It's trivial that you can get two points to be linearly dependent. For example the square with vertices (0,0), (0,1), (1,0) and (1,1). (0,0) Is linearly dependent with every other vertex.
 
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