Math
Math
Math
Main Topic:
Defination:
An eigenvector (also called a characteristic
vector) of a linear transformation (the mapping
between two vector spaces that preserves the
operations of vector addition and scalar
multiplication) is a nonzero vector that changes
at most by a scalar factor when that linear
transformation is applied to it.
Eigenvalues are a special set of scalars
associated with a linear system of equations or
matrices equations. Eigenvalues are also called
characteristic roots, characteristic values, proper
values, or latent roots. Eigenvalues are typically
denoted by a λ (lambda).
Theory:
Eigenvalues and eigenvectors are concepts from linear
algebra that play a crucial role in various mathematical and
scientific applications. Let's explore the theory behind
eigenvalues and eigenvectors:
Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors:
1.Matrix Transformation:
Consider a square matrix A of order n×n
An eigenvector v and its corresponding eigenvalue λ satisfy the
equation Av=λv.
This equation can be rearranged as (A−λI)v=0, where I is the
identity matrix.
2.Determinant and Trace:
The eigenvalues of a matrix A are the solutions to the
characteristic equation det(A−λI)=0.
The sum of the eigenvalues is equal to the sum of the diagonal
elements of A (trace), i.e.,Tr(A)=λ1+λ2+…+λn.
3.Geometric Interpretation:
Eigenvectors represent directions that remain unchanged under
the linear transformation represented by the matrix A.
Eigenvalues determine the scaling factor by which the eigenvectors
are stretched or compressed during the transformation.
4.Diagonalization:
A square matrix A is diagonalizable if it can be expressed as
A=PDP−1, where P is a matrix whose columns are the
eigenvectors of A, and D is a diagonal matrix with the
corresponding eigenvalues on the diagonal.
5.Symmetric Matrices:
For symmetric matrices, all eigenvalues are real, and the
eigenvectors can be chosen to be orthogonal.
This property has important implications in various fields,
including physics and optimization.
Applications:
Eigenvalues and eigenvectors find numerous applications across
various fields due to their ability to simplify and analyze complex
linear transformations. Here are some key applications: