Proving Properties of Linear Transformations in Jordan Canonical Form

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving properties of linear transformations, specifically focusing on the null spaces of a linear transformation T and its negative, as well as their relationships with eigenvalues. The context is set within the framework of Jordan canonical form.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the null spaces of T and -T, questioning how to demonstrate that if v is in N(T), then -v is also in N(T). There is discussion on the implications of T(v) = 0 leading to -T(v) = 0.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, attempting to clarify their understanding of the properties of linear transformations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between T and -T, and there is a recognition of the need to show that if v is in the null space of T, then -v must also be in the null space.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about applying concepts from Jordan canonical form to the initial problem, indicating a potential gap in understanding how these concepts interrelate.

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Homework Statement


Let T: V [tex]\rightarrow[/tex] W be a linear trans. Prove:
a) N(T) = N(-T)
b) N(Tk) = N((-T)k)
c) If V = W and [tex]\lambda[/tex] is an eigenvalue of T, then for any positive integer k:
N((T - [tex]\lambda[/tex]Iv)k) = N(([tex]\lambda[/tex]Iv - T)k)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


Im not sure how to start on a. I know if I can get started on that one, I can handle the rest. I like this:

-T(v) = -0
-T(v) = 0
-T(v) = T(v)

therefore N(T) = N(-T) ?

Im not sure if that's even remotely on the right track, but this question is in the first Jordan Conanical form section, and I am not sure how that concept can be applie to this very first question. I can see it needing to be applied in the other two, but not this one.
 
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hitmeoff said:

Homework Statement


Let T: V [tex]\rightarrow[/tex] W be a linear trans. Prove:
a) N(T) = N(-T)
b) N(Tk) = N((-T)k)
c) If V = W and [tex]\lambda[/tex] is an eigenvalue of T, then for any positive integer k:
N((T - [tex]\lambda[/tex]Iv)k) = N(([tex]\lambda[/tex]Iv - T)k)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Im not sure how to start on a. I know if I can get started on that one, I can handle the rest. I like this:

-T(v) = -0
-T(v) = 0
-T(v) = T(v)

therefore N(T) = N(-T) ?
How does this follow from what appears before it. You're trying to prove that the nullspace of T is the same as the nullspace of -T.

Start by assuming that v is in null(T). Can you show that v is also in null(T)?
hitmeoff said:
Im not sure if that's even remotely on the right track, but this question is in the first Jordan Conanical form section, and I am not sure how that concept can be applie to this very first question. I can see it needing to be applied in the other two, but not this one.
 
OK so if v is in N(T) then T(v) = 0

Since -T(v) is equal to T(-v), we need to show that -v is also in N(T)?

I think I am thinking what Landau was thinking in this thread:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=403507
"It looks correct. Basically, you're proving that for any linear map T, T and -T have the same kernel. This is true because Tv=0 iff -Tv=0"

T(v) = 0 iff -T(v) = 0, since we are only talking about v in N, then T(v) must equal 0 then -T(v) = 0 this N(T) = N(-T), no?
 
Last edited:
hitmeoff said:
OK so if v is in N(T) then T(v) = 0

Since -T(v) is equal to T(-v), we need to show that -v is also in N(T)?
Yes, you need to show that -v is also in N(T).

Do you know why -T(v) = T(-v)?
hitmeoff said:
I think I am thinking what Landau was thinking in this thread:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=403507
"It looks correct. Basically, you're proving that for any linear map T, T and -T have the same kernel. This is true because Tv=0 iff -Tv=0"

T(v) = 0 iff -T(v) = 0, since we are only talking about v in N, then T(v) must equal 0 then -T(v) = 0 this N(T) = N(-T), no?
 

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