Thedifference between diagonalazation and basis transformation

In summary, diagonalization and basis transformation are two methods used in linear algebra to simplify and understand matrices. Diagonalization involves finding a new basis for a matrix represented by a diagonal matrix, while basis transformation changes the basis of a matrix without altering its diagonal form. These methods do not affect the eigenvalues of a matrix, but provide a different representation of them. The ease of performing diagonalization or basis transformation depends on the matrix and basis used. These methods can only be applied to square matrices with a full set of linearly independent eigenvectors. They have practical applications in various fields, such as physics, engineering, and computer science, for solving problems and analyzing system behavior.
  • #1
transgalactic
1,395
0
why when we want to trasform a matrix to a diagonolized form
D=p^-1*A*P

but when we want to change a matrix to a new basis
[tex]
[A]_v=P*[A]_E*p^-1
[/tex]
??

why the transformation matrices are flipped??
 
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  • #2
They are not. It's just a different choice where which matrix is P and which is P-1.
 
  • #3
but there is no choise
p is always a transformation matrix and P^-1 is its inverse

why the other formula flips them
??
 

1. What is the difference between diagonalization and basis transformation?

Diagonalization and basis transformation are two different methods used in linear algebra to simplify and understand a matrix. Diagonalization involves finding a new basis for a matrix in which the matrix is represented by a diagonal matrix, while basis transformation involves changing the basis of a matrix without changing its diagonal form.

2. How do diagonalization and basis transformation affect the eigenvalues of a matrix?

Diagonalization and basis transformation do not change the eigenvalues of a matrix. Instead, they provide a different representation of the same eigenvalues.

3. Which method is easier to perform, diagonalization or basis transformation?

It depends on the matrix and the basis used. In some cases, diagonalization may be easier, while in others, basis transformation may be simpler. It is important to understand both methods to determine which one is more suitable for a specific problem.

4. Can diagonalization and basis transformation be applied to any matrix?

No, diagonalization and basis transformation can only be applied to square matrices that have a full set of linearly independent eigenvectors. Otherwise, the matrix is not diagonalizable or cannot be transformed into a diagonal matrix.

5. What are the practical applications of diagonalization and basis transformation?

Diagonalization and basis transformation are widely used in various fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science. They are used to simplify and solve problems involving matrices, such as finding optimal solutions and analyzing system behavior.

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