Proving a Basis for a Vector Space

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To prove a basis for a vector space, one must apply linear transformations to the basis vectors and express the results as linear combinations of those vectors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of row reducing matrices to determine linear independence and span, particularly in R^3. Participants suggest using the given matrix to evaluate transformations at specific points and then expressing those results in terms of the basis vectors. A method for constructing a change of basis matrix is also mentioned as a viable approach. Overall, understanding how to manipulate matrices and apply linear transformations is crucial for proving a basis in vector spaces.
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Homework Statement


See Attachment.

The Attempt at a Solution


For the first two questions, I know I have to sub in values for a and b. But, I'm not sure what the output matrix is.
The 3rd q, to prove B is Basis for R^3. I just have to row reduce [(1,5);(1,6)] to get [(1,0);(0,1)] right? But like before, I don't know how to do b).

Any help is appreciated.
 

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To find the matrix representing a given linear transformation, in a given ordered basis, apply the linear transformation to each basis vector in turn. Write the result as a linear combination of the basis vectors. The coefficients give the columns of the matrix.

For example, f(x^2)= (x^2)'= 2x= 2(1+ x)- 2(1)= -2(1)+ 2(1+ x)+ 0(x^2). Since the basis is \{1, 1+ x, x^2\}, in that order, the third column of the matrix would be
\begin{bmatrix}-2 \\ 2 \\ 0\end{bmatrix}


For 6(b) there are two different ways to do this. The most direct would be to use the matrix, as given, to determine T\left(\begin{array}{c} 1 \\ 5\end{array}\right) and T\left(\begin{array}{c}1 \\ 6\end{array}\right) and then write the results as linear combinations of those new basis vectors. Another would be to construct the "change of basis" matrix and multiply by that.
 
HallsofIvy said:
To find the matrix representing a given linear transformation, in a given ordered basis, apply the linear transformation to each basis vector in turn. Write the result as a linear combination of the basis vectors. The coefficients give the columns of the matrix.

For example, f(x^2)= (x^2)'= 2x= 2(1+ x)- 2(1)= -2(1)+ 2(1+ x)+ 0(x^2). Since the basis is \{1, 1+ x, x^2\}, in that order, the third column of the matrix would be
\begin{bmatrix}-2 \\ 2 \\ 0\end{bmatrix} For 6(b) there are two different ways to do this. The most direct would be to use the matrix, as given, to determine T\left(\begin{array}{c} 1 \\ 5\end{array}\right) and T\left(\begin{array}{c}1 \\ 6\end{array}\right) and then write the results as linear combinations of those new basis vectors. Another would be to construct the "change of basis" matrix and multiply by that.
Thanks HallsOfIvy; I still don't understand how to do the other two though. My approach is sub in values for a and b which correspond to the co-effs. of the given basis. Then assemble a matrix from them. Eg: f[(5,0);(1,3)]=[(1,1);(2;-1)] which gives me [(-17,4);(15,-3)] for c).
 
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Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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