Proving a transformation is linear

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving whether a transformation T is linear by finding a standard matrix A for T and verifying the properties of linear transformations. The original poster presents a specific transformation and expresses uncertainty about handling a constant term in the matrix representation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definition of linear transformations and the implications of constants in the transformation. Some suggest finding counterexamples to demonstrate non-linearity, while others offer insights into simplifying the problem by checking specific properties of T.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different interpretations of linearity and providing guidance on checking specific conditions. There is acknowledgment of the potential simplicity of the problem, but no consensus has been reached on the final determination of T's linearity.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of adhering to the definitions of linear transformations and the implications of constants in the transformation's representation. There is a mention of a picture attachment that may contain additional work related to the problem.

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Homework Statement


0%5Cbegin%7Bbmatrix%7D%202x_1%20-%203x_2%5C%5C%202x_2%5C%5C%204x_1%20+%203%20%5Cend%7Bbmatrix%7D.gif

If T is linear, show that it is linear by finding a standard matrix A for T so that:
gif.gif

Also show that this equation holds for the matrix you have found. If T is not linear, prove that T is not linear by showing that it does not fit the definition of a linear transformation

Homework Equations


Definition of a linear transformation:
T(\vec{u}+\vec{v}) = T(\vec{u})+T(\vec{v})
T(c\vec{u}) = cT(\vec{u})

The Attempt at a Solution


First I let $$ \vec{e}_{1} =
\begin{bmatrix}
1\\
0
\\0

\end{bmatrix} $$
$$ \vec{e}_{2} =
\begin{bmatrix}
0\\
1
\\0

\end{bmatrix}$$
$$ \vec{e}_{3} =
\begin{bmatrix}
0\\
0
\\1

\end{bmatrix}$$
However, when I go to separate
$$
\vec{b} = \begin{bmatrix}
2x_1 - 3x_2\\
2x_2\\
4x_1 + 3
\end{bmatrix}$$ I am not sure how to handle the constant, i.e, I am not sure how to rewrite as A\vec{x}. I think once I figure that out I should be able to do the rest of problem
 
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It is not linear ... Just find a counter example to the definitions of what a linear transformation is.
 
(Edit : deleted, duplicate response)
 
Last edited:
Orodruin said:
It is not linear ... Just find a counter example to the definitions of what a linear transformation is.
Ok, I didn't realize that was all I needed to do. I have attached a picture of my work because it would be kind of long to write out in latex:
hsPShzu.jpg
 
You could simplify that a lot. If T is linear, then T(0)=0, since T(0x)=0T(x). Is it for your given T?
 
Dick said:
You could simplify that a lot. If T is linear, then T(0)=0, since T(0x)=0T(x). Is it for your given T?
wow I hadn't thought of that, sort of makes the problem trivial lol...anyway thanks for the help :)
 

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