Linear Transformations: M 2x2 to R^3 with Ker(L) and Rank Calculations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the linear transformation L from the space of 2x2 matrices (M 2x2) to R^3. Participants are tasked with finding the kernel of L, determining if L is a one-to-one function, and calculating the rank of L to assess whether it maps M 2x2 onto R^3.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to define the kernel of L and question whether it consists solely of the zero matrix or includes others. Others raise concerns about the definitions of kernel and nullspace, suggesting that they are the same concept. There are inquiries about proving properties of the transformation, such as linearity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning the correctness of initial attempts and definitions. Some guidance has been offered regarding the nature of the kernel and the need for clarity in definitions. There is no explicit consensus yet, as participants explore different interpretations and clarify terms.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating definitions and properties related to linear transformations, kernels, and ranks, with some confusion evident regarding the relationship between these concepts. The original poster's reference to an "odd number" in the book suggests potential discrepancies in understanding or interpretation of the problem.

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Homework Statement


Let L : M 2x2 ---> R^3 be defined by L( a b ) = (a, b+c , d)
c d

a. Find ker(L), is L a 1-1 function?
b. What is the rank of L and does it map M 2x2 onto R^3

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



a. ker(L) = (0, 0, 0),
b. Rank= 3
c. 4= N + 3
N= 1 So it does map it




Can you guys see if this is right? It is an odd number in the book
 
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kdizzle711 said:

Homework Statement


Let L : M 2x2 ---> R^3 be defined by L( a b ) = (a, b+c , d)
c d

a. Find ker(L), is L a 1-1 function?
b. What is the rank of L and does it map M 2x2 onto R^3

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



a. ker(L) = (0, 0, 0),
This is not right, and in fact, not even close. The kernel of L consists of 2 x 2 matrices, not vectors in R3, as the vector you show is. The 2 x 2 zero matrix is included in the kernel of this problem, but there are many other matrices as well.
kdizzle711 said:
b. Rank= 3
c. 4= N + 3
N= 1 So it does map it
What does N represent here? Convince us that you understand what you are doing. Also, unless you have a theorem to invoke, you should show that the transformation is 1-to-1 (or not) by showing that if L(M1) = L(M2), then M1 = M2.
kdizzle711 said:
Can you guys see if this is right? It is an odd number in the book
 
N represents the dimension of the nullspace, I am stumped
Am I supposed to prove it my T(v+w) = T(v) +T(w) and T(cV)=cT(v)?
 
Also the nullspace is the solution set to Ax=O, so it being 1 means there is only 1 solution set
 
You don't appear to know any of the definitions. The "nullspace" and "kernel" are the same thing- just different names. You say at one point that the the kernel is just {(0,0,0)} and at another that the dimension of the nullspace is 1. Those can't both be true. The "subspace" {(0,0,0)}" has dimension 0, not 1. Learn the definitions!

In any case, since L is applied to "2 by 2 matrices" the kernel (nullspace) must be a subspace of matrices not ordered triples.

Here, L is defined as
L\left(\begin{bmatrix}a & b \\ c & d\end{bmatrix}\right)= (a, b+ c, d)

For a matrix to be in the kernel we must have
L\left(\begin{bmatrix}a & b \\ c & d\end{bmatrix}\right)= (a, b+ c, d)= (0, 0, 0)
or a= 0, b+ c= 0, d= 0. What numbers satisfy that? What matrices are in the kernel?

Answer that and we'll work on the rest of the problem.
 

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