Math Problem Statement

Prove that -(-v)=v for every v in V

Solution

To prove that (v)=v-(-v) = v for every vv in a vector space VV, we need to use the properties of vectors, particularly the properties of the additive inverse and the identity element in a vector space.

Proof:

  1. Additive Inverse Property:
    For any vector vv in VV, there exists a vector v-v (the additive inverse of vv) such that: v+(v)=0v + (-v) = 0 where 00 is the additive identity in VV.

  2. Property of the Additive Identity:
    The additive identity 00 in VV has the property that for any vector vv in VV: v+0=vv + 0 = v and 0+v=v0 + v = v

  3. Additive Inverse of v-v:
    Consider the vector (v)-(-v). By definition, (v)-(-v) is the additive inverse of v-v, so: (v)+(v)=0-(-v) + (-v) = 0

  4. Substitute vv for 00:
    From step 1, we know that v+(v)=0v + (-v) = 0. Substitute this into the equation from step 3: (v)+(v)=v+(v)-(-v) + (-v) = v + (-v)

  5. Cancel v-v on both sides:
    Since v+(v)=0v + (-v) = 0, we have: (v)=v-(-v) = v

Thus, we have shown that (v)=v-(-v) = v for every vector vv in the vector space VV.

Do you want details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions that expand on this proof:

  1. How does the proof of (v)=v-(-v) = v change if VV is not a vector space but a module over a ring?
  2. Can you provide examples of vectors vv in different vector spaces to illustrate (v)=v-(-v) = v?
  3. How does this proof work in the context of complex vector spaces?
  4. What role does the uniqueness of the additive inverse play in this proof?
  5. How can this proof be generalized to other algebraic structures like groups?

Tip: When dealing with vector spaces, always remember the key properties: closure under addition and scalar multiplication, the existence of an additive identity, and the existence of additive inverses. These properties are fundamental to proving various identities.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Vector Spaces
Additive Inverses
Identity Element

Formulas

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Theorems

-

Suitable Grade Level

Advanced High School