Math Problem Statement

Which of the following is an eigenvector of the matrix [ 0 3 ; -3 0 ]?

Solution

We are given a matrix A=[0330]A = \begin{bmatrix} 0 & 3 \\ -3 & 0 \end{bmatrix} and need to determine which vector from the provided options is an eigenvector of this matrix.

Steps to determine the eigenvector:

  1. To be an eigenvector, a vector vv must satisfy the equation Av=λvA \cdot v = \lambda \cdot v, where λ\lambda is the eigenvalue, and vv is the eigenvector.

  2. First, find the eigenvalues λ\lambda by solving the characteristic equation: det(AλI)=0\text{det}(A - \lambda I) = 0 where II is the identity matrix.

    We compute the determinant: det[λ33λ]=λ2+9=0\text{det} \begin{bmatrix} -\lambda & 3 \\ -3 & -\lambda \end{bmatrix} = \lambda^2 + 9 = 0 Solving λ2+9=0\lambda^2 + 9 = 0 gives λ=±3i\lambda = \pm 3i.

  3. Now, find the eigenvectors corresponding to λ=3i\lambda = 3i and λ=3i\lambda = -3i.

Eigenvectors for λ=3i\lambda = 3i:

We solve (A3iI)v=0(A - 3iI)v = 0. This leads to a system of linear equations, and solving it yields the eigenvector corresponding to λ=3i\lambda = 3i, which involves complex numbers like 1+i1 + i or 1i1 - i.

Conclusion:

From the list of options, the vector [1+ii]\begin{bmatrix} 1 + i \\ i \end{bmatrix} matches an eigenvector associated with the eigenvalue 3i3i. Therefore, the correct answer is the second option: [1+ii]\begin{bmatrix} 1 + i \\ i \end{bmatrix}.

Would you like more details on any step? Here are related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How do you compute the determinant of a 2x2 matrix?
  2. What are the properties of complex eigenvalues and their eigenvectors?
  3. Can a matrix have both real and complex eigenvalues?
  4. How do you solve for eigenvectors once eigenvalues are found?
  5. Why does the characteristic polynomial have complex roots in this case?

Tip: When dealing with complex eigenvalues, remember that their corresponding eigenvectors will also involve complex components.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Algebra
Eigenvectors
Complex Numbers

Formulas

A * v = λ * v
det(A - λI) = 0

Theorems

Eigenvalue-Eigenvector Theorem
Characteristic Equation

Suitable Grade Level

Undergraduate