Proposing Proving Hermitian Matrices Diagonalizable by Unitary Matrix

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SUMMARY

Every Hermitian matrix can be diagonalized by a unitary matrix, as established by the Spectral Decomposition theorem. In this context, let H represent a Hermitian matrix and S denote a unitary matrix. The relationship S-1HS = D demonstrates that D is a diagonal matrix, confirming the diagonalizability of H through unitary transformation. This proof relies on the properties of normal matrices and Schur's Lemma, which asserts that a normal matrix can be transformed into an upper triangular form.

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Its quantum computing but related to math:

Homework Statement



show every hermitian matrix can be diagonalized by unitary matrix. Prove this using. N x N matrix.


Homework Equations


H= hermitian matrix. U = unitary matrix
show U-1(inverse)HU = D (diagonal) using N x N matrix.


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know how to start.

Any help would be helpful.
 
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This is fairly nontrivial, but easy if you know what to do. It is a special case of the finite dimensional spectral theorem, as hermitian matrices are normal.

Sketch: Suppose A is normal. Then by Schur's Lemma we know that A is unitarily similar to an upper triangular matrix. That is, U^HAU=T.

Now, since T is both triangular and normal we see that T is diagonal. Hence, A=UDU^H upon block multiplication.I will leave it to you to show that T is normal and if T triangular and normal then T is diagonal.
 
Last edited:
No, still not clear. I'm good with kind of proving. Can you be more specific on how to answer the question. I'm really really thankfu.
Question:
It is possible to show using the Spectral Decomposition theorem that every hermitian matrix cab be diagonalzed by a unitary matrix. Let H be a an hermitian matrix and set S be unitary where S(inverse)HS= D where D is diagonal.
Show that S(inverse) H S and hence D is hermitian
 

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