Simple matrix/linear algebra question, help

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a linear algebra problem involving a linear operator L applied to polynomial functions, specifically in the context of understanding the mapping of constant and linear functions. Participants are exploring the workings of the operator and its implications for specific functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the application of the linear operator L, particularly how it transforms the functions L(1) and L(t). Questions are raised about the definitions and calculations involved, especially regarding the values of f(-2) and the derivatives of the functions.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the definitions and calculations related to the linear operator. Some participants express confusion about the results provided in the marking scheme, while others clarify their understanding of the functions involved and how they relate to the operator L.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of using specific functions and their values at certain points, particularly f(-2). There is an acknowledgment of the need to clarify the roles of the independent variable and the functions being analyzed.

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Homework Statement


Here is the question, i know how to do part (i) but I do not understand part (ii):

matrixq.png


The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]

here's the solution from the marking scheme:

matrixqans.png
i understand how they formed the matrix from their working out (i can se the pattern), but I do not understand the actual working out. Thanks to anyone who could explain it to me.

why does L(1) = t? why does L(t) = 1 + (-2)t? etc
 
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ilyas.h said:

Homework Statement


Here is the question, i know how to do part (i) but I do not understand part (ii):

matrixq.png


The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]

here's the solution from the marking scheme:

matrixqans.png
i understand how they formed the matrix from their working out (i can se the pattern), but I do not understand the actual working out. Thanks to anyone who could explain it to me.

why does L(1) = t? why does L(t) = 1 + (-2)t? etc
If f is a function in P3, then L(f) = f' + t * f(-2). In other words, to get the image of a function f, add the derivative of the function and t times f(-2). So L(1) = 0 + t = t. Can you figure out why L(t) = 1 - 2t?
 
Mark44 said:
If f is a function in P3, then L(f) = f' + t * f(-2). In other words, to get the image of a function f, add the derivative of the function and t times f(-2). So L(1) = 0 + t = t. Can you figure out why L(t) = 1 - 2t?

Still doesn't make sense.

L(1) = 1' + 1*(-2)t = d(1)/dt + (-2)t =

0 + (-2)t = (-2)t

=/= t.
what is f(-2) equal to anyway?
 
Last edited:
ilyas.h said:
Still doesn't make sense.

L(1) = 1' + 1*(-2)t = d(1)/dt + (-2)t =

0 + (-2)t = (-2)t

=/= t.

what is f(-2) equal to anyway?
Indeed !

What is ƒ(-2) equal to?

What is ƒ ?

You were considering finding L(1) .

That makes ƒ(x) = 1, a constant function, so it maps everything to 1. It even maps -2 to 1.
 
SammyS said:
Indeed !

What is ƒ(-2) equal to?

What is ƒ ?

You were considering finding L(1) .

That makes ƒ(x) = 1, a constant function, so it maps everything to 1. It even maps -2 to 1.

I think i understand.

L(1) means that we are considering the function f(x) = 1 (a straight line through y=1):

L(f) = f' + f(-2)t

L(1) = d(1)/dt + f(-2)t

f(-2) is equal to 1 in this case, so:

d(1)/dt + f(-2)t = 0 +t = tHowever, if we consider L(t):

L(t) = t' + f(-2)t
=d(t)/dt + f(-2)t
= 1 + f(-2)t

in this case, we are considering f(x) = t, another constant function (y=t throughout), so f(-2) = t:

L(t) = 1 + f(-2)t = 1 + t*t

= 1 + t^2

this does not equal 1+(-2)t as indicated in the markscheme.EDIT: nvm, i understand now.

if f(t) = t then:

f(-2) = -2.

Plug it all in and it all works.

thanks,
 
Last edited:
SammyS said:
In my previous post, I should have used t as the independent variable, not x. (It would have been clearer.)

So here: For L(t),

That means ƒ(t) = t . (That's the same as saying ƒ(x) = x .

Function, ƒ , is the identity function, not a constant function.

ƒ '(t) = 1 . ƒ(-2) = -2
can you look at my edit? thanks.
 
ilyas.h said:
can you look at my edit? thanks.
Yup.

(I quickly deleted a post I had made in reply. Now that you edited that post, all is well.)
 

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