Proving Determinant of NxN Matrix All Rows & Cols Sum to 0

  • Context: Graduate 
  • Thread starter Thread starter robforsub
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Determinant Minor
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that for an n*n matrix where all rows and columns sum to zero, all (n-1)*(n-1) minors have the same determinant up to a sign. The reasoning is based on the fact that the linear dependence of the columns leads to a determinant of zero for the n*n matrix. Consequently, the properties of determinants imply that the minors derived from this matrix must also exhibit this consistent behavior, necessitating a rigorous proof potentially involving cofactor expansion and mathematical induction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear algebra concepts, particularly determinants.
  • Familiarity with matrix properties, specifically linear dependence.
  • Knowledge of cofactor expansion techniques in determinant calculation.
  • Experience with mathematical induction as a proof technique.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of determinants in linear algebra.
  • Learn about cofactor expansion methods for calculating determinants.
  • Explore mathematical induction and its applications in proofs.
  • Investigate linear combinations and their implications in matrix theory.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those focusing on linear algebra, matrix theory, and proof techniques. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of determinants and their properties in relation to matrix sums.

robforsub
Messages
16
Reaction score
0
If given a n*n matrix with all rows and columns sum to 0, how do I argue that all its (n-1)*(n-1) minor have the same determinant up to a sign?
Since all rows and columns all sum to 0, then I know that any column is a linear combination of all others, so that the determinant of this n*n matrix must be zero, then since the determinant is calculated using minors, it seems to imply that all (n-1)*(n-1) minors must have the same determinant up to a sign, but how do I rigorously prove that?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
This is just a hunch, but cofactor expansion and induction are probably involved.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K