Norm of operator vs. norm of its inverse

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    Inverse Norm Operator
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the relationship between the norm of an invertible, bounded linear operator \( T \) and the norm of its inverse \( T^{-1} \). Participants explore whether the equality \( \| T^{-1} \| = \frac{1}{\| T \|} \) holds under certain conditions, particularly in the context of finite-dimensional spaces and bounded operators.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if the equality \( \| T^{-1} \| = \frac{1}{\| T \|} \) can be concluded for invertible, bounded linear operators, particularly when the inverse is known to be bounded.
  • Another participant argues that the equality does not hold even in finite-dimensional spaces, providing a counterexample with a specific matrix and its inverse, highlighting that the norms differ.
  • A further contribution simplifies the discussion by referencing the case of a 1x1 matrix, illustrating the relationship between the norms of a scalar and its inverse.
  • Participants emphasize the importance of testing statements in functional analysis within finite-dimensional contexts to gain insights.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the validity of the equality \( \| T^{-1} \| = \frac{1}{\| T \|} \), with at least one counterexample provided. The discussion remains unresolved as multiple perspectives are presented without consensus.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in the generalization of the norm relationship, particularly in finite-dimensional spaces. The implications of boundedness and the specific examples used may depend on the definitions and contexts applied.

AxiomOfChoice
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Are there any circumstances under which we can conclude that, for an invertible, bounded linear operator T,

<br /> \| T^{-1} \| = \frac{1}{\| T \|} ?<br />

E.g., does this always hold if we know the inverse is bounded?
 
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No, this doesn't even hold for finite-dimensional spaces! (i.e. for matrices).

Consider the matrix

\left(\begin{array}{cc} 2 &amp; 0\\ 0 &amp; 1\end{array}\right).

The norm of this operator is 2. However, the inverse operator is

\left(\begin{array}{cc} 1/2 &amp; 0\\ 0 &amp; 1\end{array}\right)

and this has norm 1.

However, you do have an inequality (for bounded operators of course): Since 1=\|id\|=\|TT^{-1}\|\leq \|T\|\|T^{-1}\|, it follows that \frac{1}{\|T\|}\leq \|T^{-1}\|.
 
Or simpler, the 1x1-matrix (a) has inverse (1/a), and these have norms a and 1/a, respectively :p

In general, it's good advice to test statements in functional analysis in the easy case of finite dimensions first.
 
Landau said:
Or simpler, the 1x1-matrix (a) has inverse (1/a), and these have norms a and 1/a, respectively :p

In general, it's good advice to test statements in functional analysis in the easy case of finite dimensions first.

Good advice. Thanks to all of you :biggrin:
 

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