Null matrix can be an idempotent matrix?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of idempotent matrices, specifically whether a null matrix qualifies as idempotent. Participants explore definitions and implications related to idempotency in the context of matrix algebra.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that a null matrix is idempotent because it satisfies the condition A² = A.
  • Others clarify that while any square zero matrix A is idempotent, not all zero matrices are idempotent, as A² might not be defined for non-square matrices.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding a separate issue about showing that B² ≠ I when B = I - A and A is idempotent, seeking clarification on the mathematical notation and reasoning.
  • Another participant suggests that expanding B² = (I - A)² would demonstrate the relationship in question.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definition of idempotent matrices, but there is disagreement regarding the status of the null matrix and the implications of matrix dimensions on idempotency. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader implications of the statements made.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of idempotency and the conditions under which certain matrices are considered. The mathematical notation used by some participants is also noted as a point of confusion.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and practitioners of linear algebra, particularly those interested in matrix properties and idempotency.

gianeshwar
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Friends!
Is there anything wrong in the statement"A null matrix is idempotent".
 
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gianeshwar said:
Friends!
Is there anything wrong in the statement"A null matrix is idempotent".
What do you think? How is the term "idempotent" defined?
 
A square equal A. So if A is zero matrix then it satsfies this condition.
 
gianeshwar said:
A square equal A. So if A is zero matrix then it satsfies this condition.
Any square zero matrix A is idempotent, since A2 = A. So, in regard to your question in the first post, not all zero matrices are idempotent, since A2 might not be defined. For example,
$$A = \begin{bmatrix} 0 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & 0\end{bmatrix}$$
 
Thank You.Doubt had arisen while showing B square not equal to I to be not always true when given B equal I minus A and A is idempotent.
 
gianeshwar said:
Thank You.Doubt had arisen while showing B square not equal to I to be not always true when given B equal I minus A and A is idempotent.
I'm not sure what you're trying to say here. Writing an equation would make it clearer.

Are you saying that B = I - A, and A is idempotent? And you need to show that B2 ≠ I?

If so, that's easy to show -- just expand B2 = (I - A)2.
 
I needed to show that( B squarenot equai to I) is not always true.
 
gianeshwar said:
I needed to show that( B squarenot equai to I) is not always true.
Like I said in my previous post, this is easy to do.

Also, please take some time to learn how to write proper math notation. To indicate the square of something, at the very least you can write B^2. Better yet, write the exponent as a superscript, like this: B2. The x2 icon in the menu bar can be used to write exponents of all kinds. The ##\Sigma## icon in the menu bar has many math symbols, such as ≠ and ∞ and many others.
 
Thank You Mark44 for the valuable help and suggestions!
 
  • #10
gianeshwar said:
Thank You Mark44 for the valuable help and suggestions!
You're welcome!
 

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