What Do the Variables r and s Represent in Matrix Notation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the matrix notation ## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ## and its definition as ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##. The variables r and s represent the indices of the matrix, specifically the rth row and sth column. The definition indicates that ## \delta_{ir} ## equals 1 when i equals r and 0 otherwise, while ## \delta_{js} ## behaves similarly for j and s. Understanding this notation is essential for grasping concepts in linear algebra.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with matrix notation and terminology
  • Understanding of Kronecker delta function, ## \delta_{ij} ##
  • Basic knowledge of linear algebra concepts
  • Ability to interpret matrix dimensions and indices
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties and applications of the Kronecker delta function
  • Learn about matrix operations and their implications in linear algebra
  • Explore the significance of matrix dimensions in mathematical contexts
  • Review linear algebra textbooks for deeper insights into matrix notation
USEFUL FOR

Students of linear algebra, educators teaching matrix theory, and anyone looking to clarify matrix notation and its applications in mathematical problems.

zoxee
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Just going over my linear algebra notes and I've forgotten the formal definition of ## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ##

I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent. Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##. I have a book on order for linear algebra which will hopefully help me out, but I can't find anything online for it - so any help would be appreciated
 
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hi zoxee! :smile:
zoxee said:
I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent.

## \epsilon(i,j)## is a matrix

## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ## is the rth row sth column of that matrix :wink:
Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##

that's the definition of the matrix ## \epsilon(i,j)##

afaik, ## \epsilon(i,j)## isn't important, there's no need to remember it …

if it comes up in an exam question, they'll give you that definition, and ask you questions about it​
 
zoxee said:
Just going over my linear algebra notes and I've forgotten the formal definition of ## \epsilon(i,j)_{rs} ##

I have written down ## \epsilon (i,j)_{rs} = \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ## but I can't seem to remember what r and s represent. Also, I don't quite understand why it equals ## \delta_{ir}\delta_{js} ##. I have a book on order for linear algebra which will hopefully help me out, but I can't find anything online for it - so any help would be appreciated

**
I have a feeling your r and s are the dimensions of your matrix. ##\delta_{ij} ## is 1 when i = j and 0 otherwise.

Does that fit with what you remember?
 

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