Orthogonal wrt to linear polynomial(s)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving for two unknowns, \(a\) and \(b\), in the context of orthogonality of linear polynomials \(f\) and \(g\) with respect to a weight function \(w(x)\). The key conclusion is that with a single equation, there exists a one-parameter family of solutions, meaning multiple pairs \((a, b)\) can satisfy the condition of orthogonality. The discussion emphasizes that any scalar multiple of the weight function \(w(x)\) will also maintain the orthogonality of \(f\) and \(g\). Thus, the approach of defining \(a\) in terms of \(b\) is valid and leads to a correct understanding of the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear polynomials and their properties
  • Knowledge of orthogonality in the context of functional analysis
  • Familiarity with weight functions in integrals
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of orthogonal polynomials in functional analysis
  • Learn about weight functions and their role in defining orthogonality
  • Explore the method of Lagrange multipliers for solving constrained optimization problems
  • Investigate the implications of scalar multiplication on polynomial functions
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra, functional analysis, or polynomial theory, will benefit from this discussion.

jegues
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Homework Statement



See figure attached for problem statement as well as my attempt.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I can't see how we are expected to solve for 2 unknowns with only one equation? What am I missing? Am I supposed to simply define a in terms of b?

Thanks again!
 

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Assuming that your math is correct, then you're done. If you had two equations and two unknowns there would only be one value of (a,b) that would work. If you have two unknowns in one equation, then you have a one-parameter family of solutions, all of which work. In fact, you would hope there would be a family of solutions, since if w(x) ensures that f and g are orthogonal, then any scalar multiple of w(x) should also make f,g orthogonal right?
 
Kreizhn said:
Assuming that your math is correct, then you're done. If you had two equations and two unknowns there would only be one value of (a,b) that would work. If you have two unknowns in one equation, then you have a one-parameter family of solutions, all of which work. In fact, you would hope there would be a family of solutions, since if w(x) ensures that f and g are orthogonal, then any scalar multiple of w(x) should also make f,g orthogonal right?

So aside for any algebra mistake that may or may not have occurred in the process, I seem to have the right idea?
 

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