Uniqueness of Inverse Operators Theorem and Proof

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the uniqueness of the inverse operators A_l^{-1} and A_r^{-1} in linear algebra. It establishes that if both inverses exist for a given operator A, then they are equal, as demonstrated through equations (1) and (2). The proof shows that A_l^{-1}A = I implies A_l^{-1} = A_r^{-1}, confirming that there cannot be two distinct inverses for the same operator. The confusion arises from the interpretation of the existence of a pair of inverses, which is clarified by recognizing that both inverses are, in fact, the same operator.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of linear algebra concepts, particularly operators and inverses.
  • Familiarity with the properties of identity matrices.
  • Knowledge of proof techniques in mathematics.
  • Basic understanding of notation used in linear algebra, such as A_l^{-1} and A_r^{-1}.
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  • Study the properties of linear operators and their inverses in depth.
  • Explore the implications of the Inverse Operators Theorem in various mathematical contexts.
  • Learn about the uniqueness of solutions in linear systems and how it relates to operator theory.
  • Investigate other theorems related to operator uniqueness, such as the Banach Fixed-Point Theorem.
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Mathematics students, particularly those studying linear algebra, educators teaching operator theory, and researchers interested in the properties of linear transformations and their inverses.

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Homework Statement


Theorem
If, for given [tex]A[/tex], both operators [tex]A_l^{-1}[/tex] and [tex]A_r^{-1}[/tex] exist, they are unique and
[tex]A_l^{-1}=A_r^{-1}[/tex]

The proof is rather straightforward, at least the first part of it:
[tex]A_l^{-1}A=I/\leftarrow A_r^{-1}[/tex]
[tex]A_l^{-1}AA_r^{-1}=A_r^{-1} (1)[/tex]

[tex]A_l^{-1}A=I/\rightarrow A_l^{-1}[/tex]
[tex]A_l^{-1}AA_r^{-1}=A_l^{-1} (2)[/tex]

Therefore
[tex]A_l^{-1}=A_r^{-1}[/tex]

However, then they say that this proof holds for any pair of operators [tex]A_l^{-1}[/tex] and [tex]A_r^{-1}[/tex] (which I can't deny) and that eqs (1) and (2) ensure there exists only one such pair, which I can't understand. I would be very grateful if someone explains to me why is that.
 
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If you've proved A_l^(-1)=A_r^(-1) then there's not really a pair. They are both the same operator, just call it A^(-1). Now suppose A had two different inverses, can you prove they are equal? It's really the same proof you just gave.
 

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