Math Problem Statement
select the best option
Solution
To analyze the problem:
We are given that A is a Hermitian matrix such that , where is the identity matrix. The goal is to determine which property of must be true.
Solution and Explanation:
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Hermitian matrix properties:
- A Hermitian matrix satisfies , where is the conjugate transpose of .
- The eigenvalues of a Hermitian matrix are always real.
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Given condition :
- This implies , which means is its own inverse: .
- Therefore, the eigenvalues of must satisfy , which means .
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Analyzing the options:
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Option 1: is singular
This is incorrect because implies , so is nonsingular. -
Option 2: The eigenvalues of are all
This is correct. From , we derived that , so all eigenvalues must be . -
Option 3: is a diagonal matrix
This is not necessarily true. While can be diagonalized (because it is Hermitian), it is not required to already be diagonal. -
Option 4: The trace of is zero
This is not necessarily true. The trace is the sum of eigenvalues, and since the eigenvalues are , the trace could be zero, positive, or negative depending on the matrix.
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Correct Answer:
The eigenvalues of are all .
Would you like me to go into further details or discuss related properties?
Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:
- Why do Hermitian matrices have real eigenvalues?
- How does imply that is invertible?
- What other types of matrices satisfy besides Hermitian ones?
- How does the trace of relate to its eigenvalues?
- What is the significance of diagonalizability for Hermitian matrices?
Tip: Remember that Hermitian matrices are always diagonalizable with real eigenvalues, making them particularly important in quantum mechanics and other physical applications!
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Linear Algebra
Hermitian Matrices
Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors
Matrix Inverses
Formulas
A^2 = I
Eigenvalue relation: λ^2 = 1 → λ = ±1
Theorems
Properties of Hermitian matrices
Spectral theorem for Hermitian matrices
Suitable Grade Level
Undergraduate (Linear Algebra)