Operations with Linear Transformations

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the properties of linear transformations, specifically addressing the relationship between the dimensions of the domain U and the codomain V. It is established that if dim(U) > dim(V), then the range of the linear transformation T cannot equal V. The equation dim(U) = rank(T) + nullity(T) is critical in this context. A counterexample involving the second derivative operator on polynomial spaces is presented, reinforcing the conclusion that the range cannot be V when the dimension of U exceeds that of V.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear transformations and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concepts of rank and nullity
  • Knowledge of finite-dimensional vector spaces
  • Basic proficiency in polynomial functions and their derivatives
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the Rank-Nullity Theorem in linear algebra
  • Explore examples of linear transformations in different vector spaces
  • Learn about the properties of polynomial spaces, specifically P4 and P2
  • Investigate common misconceptions in linear transformation theory
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Students of linear algebra, educators teaching vector space concepts, and anyone interested in the theoretical foundations of linear transformations.

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Homework Statement



Let [tex]T:U \rightarrow V[/tex] be a linear transformation, and let U be finite-dimensional. Prove that if dim(U) > dim(V), then Range(T) = V is not possible.

Homework Equations



dim(U) = rank(T) + nullity(T)

The Attempt at a Solution



I almost think there must be a typo in the book. For instance, let U be P4 (the space of polynomials degree 4 and lower), and let V be P2. Let T be the second derivative operator. Then the Range of T is V. This example is even printed earlier in the same book that I got this question from.

Otherwise, I see no reason why the Range(T) couldn't be V. The rank(T) could at most be dim(V), but that is no problem, because the nullity(T) could be anywhere from dim(U) to dim(U)-dim(V).

So, is this a typo? Or (maybe more likely) am I missing something obvious?
 
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Let [tex]T:U \rightarrow V[/tex] be a linear transformation, and let U be finite-dimensional. Prove that if dim(U) > dim(V), then Range(T) = V is not possible.

Definitely a typo. It should be <.
 

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