Proving Unitary Operators = e^iA for Self Adjoint Matrix

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving that a unitary operator U in the vector space of complex n x n matrices can be expressed as U = eiA, where A is a self-adjoint matrix with eigenvalues in the interval [0, 2π]. The proof confirms that if U = eiA, then U is unitary, as demonstrated by showing that UU* = I. The challenge lies in proving the converse: whether every unitary operator can be represented in this form. The participant ultimately resolves their query, indicating that they found the solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of self-adjoint matrices and their properties
  • Knowledge of unitary operators and their definitions
  • Familiarity with matrix exponentiation, specifically eiA
  • Concept of diagonalization of matrices and unitary equivalence
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  • Study the properties of self-adjoint matrices in detail
  • Explore the implications of the spectral theorem for unitary operators
  • Learn about the relationship between unitary operators and their eigenvalues
  • Investigate counterexamples in linear algebra to understand limitations of matrix representations
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Homework Statement



Prove or disprove: if U is in the vector space of complex n x n matrices, then U is unitary if and only if U= e^iA, where A is some self adjoint matrix in same vector space, all of whose eigenvalues lie in the interval [0,2pi)


Homework Equations


A is self adjoint; A* = A, and A is unitarily equivalent to a diagonal matrix, A=PDP*, where P is a unitary matrix whose columns consist of eigenvectors of A which form an orthonormal basis for the vector space.
e^iA= P(a diagonal matrix with first entry, D'11= e^it1, and last entry D'nn=e^itn)P* . Where t1 thru tn
are the (real) eigenvalues of A, and P is the matrix defined above.
Unitary operators:
UU*= I , the defn of unitary
Unitary operators are normal, all eigenvalues have abs value 1, and ||Uv|| = ||v|| for any vector in the vector space U is acting on.


The Attempt at a Solution


I've proved it one of the directions, starting by assuming U=e^iA, putting it into the form i described above, and showing U*=e^-iA, simply multiplying UU* gives I, which is the defn of unitary operator. I think I need a small hint for how to approach the proof from the other direction,i.e. starting with assuming that U is unitary can one show that it equals e^iA for some self adjoint A. Questioning if only the first direction is true, and if the other direction can be proved at all. Trying to think of a counterexample. Thank you for your help.


 
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Nevermind, i got it
 

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