Prove that its a linear operator

In summary, we proved that for a linear operator T(f):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}, T(kf)=kT(f) and T(f+g)=T(f)+T(g). This shows that T is a linear operator.
  • #1
transgalactic
1,395
0
prove that a linear operator..
[tex]
T(f):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}
[/tex]

T(kf)=kT(f) part:
[tex]
T(kf):=k\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2k\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}=k(\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x})=kT(f)\\
[/tex]

is it correct??
 
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  • #2
Yes it is. Now what is
[tex]\frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}[/tex]
 
  • #3
Yes, it's correct, but you skipped a skip in the derivation, if you want to be explicit. It should be:

[tex]T(kf)= \frac{d^2 (kf)}{dx^2} + 2\frac{d(kf)}{dx^2} = k\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2k\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}=k(\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x})=kT(f)\\ [/tex]

Since the entire proof relies on this step, it is important to include it. Now to finish the proof you need to show [tex]T(f+g) = Tf + Tf[/tex].
 
  • #4
" T(f + g) = T(f) + T(f) "

Actually, what phreak meant was

" T(f + g) = T(f) + T(g) "
 
  • #5
HallsofIvy said:
Yes it is. Now what is
[tex]\frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}[/tex]

i think its
[tex]
\frac{d(f(x)+ g(x))}{dx}=\frac{d(f(x)+d(g(x)}{dx}
[/tex]
 
  • #6
af ter that
if i got a derivative of a sum and there is dx in the demoniator
then i just brake it into two peaces
[tex]
T(f):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}\\
[/tex]
[tex]
T(f+g):=\frac{\mathrm{d^2(f+g)} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{d(f+g)} }{\mathrm{d} x}=\frac{\mathrm{d^2f} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{df} }{\mathrm{d} x}+\frac{\mathrm{d^2g} }{\mathrm{d} x^2}+2\frac{\mathrm{dg} }{\mathrm{d} x}
=T(f)+T(g)
[/tex]
 
  • #7
Yep, that's right.
 

What is a linear operator?

A linear operator is a mathematical function that maps one vector space to another while preserving the vector addition and scalar multiplication operations.

How do you prove that a function is a linear operator?

To prove that a function is a linear operator, you need to show that it satisfies the two properties of linearity: additivity and homogeneity. This means that the function must preserve vector addition and scalar multiplication.

Why is proving linearity important in science?

Proving linearity of a function is important in science because it helps us understand the behavior and relationships between variables in a system. It allows us to make accurate predictions and draw conclusions based on mathematical models.

What are some common examples of linear operators?

Some common examples of linear operators include differentiation, integration, and matrix multiplication. These operators are used in various fields of science, such as physics, engineering, and economics, to model and analyze systems.

What happens if a function is not a linear operator?

If a function is not a linear operator, it means that it does not satisfy the properties of linearity. This can lead to inaccurate predictions and conclusions when using the function in a mathematical model. In science, it is important to carefully consider the linearity of a function before using it in analyses.

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