Matrix Diagonalization & Eigen Decomposition

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SUMMARY

Matrix diagonalization and eigen decomposition refer to closely related concepts in linear algebra. A matrix is diagonalizable if it can be expressed in the form A = PDP-1, where A is an n×n matrix, P is an invertible n×n matrix, and D is a diagonal matrix. Eigen decomposition, often synonymous with spectral decomposition, relates to the representation of a matrix in terms of its eigenvalues and eigenvectors. While these terms are primarily applicable to finite-dimensional matrices, they also extend to infinite-dimensional vector spaces in the context of ordinary and partial differential equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear algebra concepts, specifically matrix theory.
  • Familiarity with eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
  • Knowledge of diagonalization processes for matrices.
  • Basic comprehension of ordinary and partial differential equations (ODEs and PDEs).
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the spectral theorem and its implications for matrix diagonalization.
  • Explore the Schur decomposition and its applications in linear transformations.
  • Investigate the role of eigenvalues and eigenvectors in solving ODEs and PDEs.
  • Learn about infinite-dimensional vector spaces and their relationship to matrix concepts.
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Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering, particularly those focusing on linear algebra, differential equations, and numerical analysis.

NATURE.M
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Do these terms practically refer to the same thing?
Like a matrix is diagonalizable iff it can be expressed in the form A=PDP^{-1}, where A is n×n matrix, P is an invertible n×n matrix, and D is a diagonal matrix
Now, this relationship between the eigenvalues/eigenvectors is sometimes referred to as eigen decomposition? Can someone clarify these terms for me.
 
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I think eigen decomposition is another term for spectral decomposition in the spectral theorem. Although it is stated in a different way than diagonalizing a matrix, the spectral decomposition is related to the Schur decomposition for normal linear transformations.
 
NATURE.M said:
Now, this relationship between the eigenvalues/eigenvectors is sometimes referred to as eigen decomposition? Can someone clarify these terms for me.

For a matrix they are basically the same, but the concept of eigenvalues/vectors applies to other situations as well. For example the solution of ODEs and PDEs can involve infinite-dimensional vector spaces (and even uncountably infinite dimensional spaces), where "matrices" are not a very useful tool to work with.
 

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