Linear Transformation involving pi/2

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of linear transformations, specifically focusing on the rotation of vectors in a two-dimensional space by an angle of β, which is specified as π/2. Participants are exploring the relationship between rotation and trigonometric identities, as well as the matrix representation of such transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the transformation of the vector [1,0] into [cos(β), sin(β)] and [0,1] into [-sin(β), cos(β)], questioning the connection to trigonometric identities.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the context of the question, asking if the inquiry pertains to the definition of sine and cosine in relation to the rotation of (1,0) by angle β.
  • A participant reiterates their confusion regarding the definition of counterclockwise rotation, particularly how to determine the signs of the matrix elements and the roles of sine and cosine when the rotation angle is not π/2.
  • A later reply provides the matrix representation of a counterclockwise rotation by an arbitrary angle β, stating that for β=π/2, the matrix simplifies to a specific form.
  • One participant reflects on the difficulty of understanding the concept, suggesting that clarity can sometimes be obscured by complexity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the definitions and implications of rotation transformations. There is no consensus on the clarity of the definitions or the reasoning behind the transformations, indicating ongoing confusion and exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a resolution on the definitions and applications of the rotation transformations, and there are unresolved questions about the generalization of these concepts beyond the specific case of π/2.

dwn
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Resource: Linear Algebra (4th Edition) -David C. Lay

I understand that there are identities associated with transformations, but what I don't understand is when the transformation is rotated about the origin through an angle β. I believe β in this case is \frac{}{}\pi/2

\left[1,0\right] into [cos(\beta) , sin(\beta)]
\left[0,1\right] into [-sin(\beta), cos(\beta)]

Can someone please explain to me why this is the case? Why do these values suddenly translate to trig identities?

Thanks!
 
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I don't understand the question. "...β in this case..." What case?

Are you asking why (1,0) rotated counterclockwise by an angle of β is (cos β,sin β)? This is a very common way to define sin and cos. Do you want to use another definition?
 
I suppose my questions reiterates my confusion...haha.

There is something I'm not grasping in the definition of this counterclockwise rotation. How am I suppose to know the positive/negative values of the matrix and whether they're sin or cosine..? What if this type of rotation is not \pi/2?
 
\begin{pmatrix}\cos\beta & -\sin\beta\\ \sin\beta & \cos\beta\end{pmatrix} is the matrix representation of a counterclockwise rotation by an arbitrary angle β. When ##\beta=\pi/2##, we have ##\sin\beta=1## and ##\cos\beta=0##, so the matrix representation of a counterclockwise rotation by ##\pi/2## is
\begin{pmatrix}0 & -1\\ 1 & 0\end{pmatrix}
 
Sometimes its difficult "to see the wood for the forest". That's all I will say.

Thanks for your clarifying this point for me.
 

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