Proving Matrix Equality Using Singular Value Decomposition

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the equality of two matrices, specifically under the condition that \( AA^T = BB^T \) if and only if \( A = BO \) for some orthogonal matrix \( O \). The participants explore the use of singular value decomposition (SVD) in this context, questioning its necessity for the proof.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to prove that \( AA^T = BB^T \) implies \( A = BO \) for some orthogonal matrix \( O \), suggesting the use of SVD.
  • Another participant challenges the need for SVD, asking if the reverse direction can be proven without it.
  • A participant confirms that the reverse direction can be proven without SVD, indicating that SVD is primarily needed for the forward direction.
  • Clarification is provided on the definitions of forward and reverse directions in the context of the proof.
  • One participant states that if \( AA^T = BB^T \), then the singular values of \( A \) and \( B \) are the same, leading to a representation of \( A \) and \( B \) using SVD, and concludes that \( O \) is orthogonal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the definitions of forward and reverse directions in the proof. However, there is disagreement regarding the necessity of using SVD for the proof, with some participants suggesting it is essential while others argue it may not be required.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve whether SVD is necessary for the proof, and there are no settled conclusions on the implications of the matrix equality.

linearishard
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Hi, I have another question, if A and B are mxn matrices, how do I prove that $AA^T = BB^T$ iff $A = BO$ where $O$ is some orthogonal matrix? I think I need to use a singular value decomposition but I am not sure. Thanks!
 
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Can you at least prove the reverse direction, that is, if $A = BO$ for some orthogonal matrix $O$, then $AA^T = BB^T$? You don't need to use SVD for this.
 
Yeah I did that but it seemed too simple, my study guide says I should be using SVD. Is it actually unnecessary?
 
You use SVD for the forward direction, not the reverse direction.
 
what do you mean by that? What is the forward and reverse directions?
 
The forward direction: If $AA^T = BB^T$, then $A = BO$ where $O$ is some orthogonal matrix. The reverse direction: If $A = BO$ where $O$ is an orthogonal matrix, then $AA^T = BB^T$.
 
If $AA^T = BB^T$, then the singular values of $A$ are the singular values of $B$. You can write $A = U\Sigma V^T$ and $B = U\Sigma Q^T$ for some orthogonal matrices $U, V$, and $Q$. Then $A = BO$ where $O = QV^T$. Since the transpose and product of orthogonal matrices are orthogonal, $O$ is orthogonal.
 

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