Understanding the Symmetric Matrix Problem: A Brief Overview

In summary, the conversation is about a question regarding a 2x2 symmetric matrix and a function f that maps from R^2 to R. The goal is to show that \nabla f(x) = 2AX, and there is confusion about the notation and how to approach solving the problem. There is a suggestion to use a linear map to prove the equation.
  • #1
ak123456
50
0

Homework Statement


consider the 2*2 symmetric matrix A =
(a b )
(b c)
and define f: R^2--R by f(x)=X*AX . show that [tex]\nabla[/tex]f(x)=2AX

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


quiet confuse about this question
[tex]\nabla[/tex]f(x)=(

Homework Statement


consider the 2*2 symmetric matrix A =
(a b )
(b c)
and define f: R^2--R by f(x)=X*AX . show that [tex]\nabla[/tex]f(x)=2AX

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


quiet confuse about this question
[tex]\nabla[/tex]f(x)=(diff(f, x) , diff(f,y) )
can i set L=(u,v) to prove L is a linear map?
 
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  • #2


I think it could be your notation, do you mean:

[tex] f:\Re^2 \rightarrow \Re [/tex]
[tex] f:\textbf{x}\rightarrow z [/tex] for [tex] \textbf{x}=(x,y) \in \Re^2, z \in \Re[/tex]

with f defined by
[tex] f(\textbf{x}) = z = \textbf{x}^T \textbf{.A.x}[/tex]
if unsure how about multiplying this out based on your matrix?

then what is
[tex]\nabla f(\textbf{x})[/tex]?
 

Related to Understanding the Symmetric Matrix Problem: A Brief Overview

1. What is a symmetric matrix?

A symmetric matrix is a square matrix that is equal to its transpose. This means that the elements above the main diagonal are the same as the elements below the main diagonal.

2. What is the importance of symmetric matrices in science and mathematics?

Symmetric matrices have many applications in science and mathematics, including in physics, engineering, statistics, and computer science. They are used to represent symmetric systems, such as symmetric forces in physics, and are also important in optimization and data analysis.

3. How can I determine if a matrix is symmetric?

To determine if a matrix is symmetric, you can compare the elements above and below the main diagonal. If they are the same, then the matrix is symmetric. Another way is to check if the matrix is equal to its transpose.

4. Can a non-square matrix be symmetric?

No, a non-square matrix cannot be symmetric. A symmetric matrix must be square, meaning it has the same number of rows and columns, in order for the elements above and below the main diagonal to be compared.

5. How are symmetric matrices used in linear algebra?

In linear algebra, symmetric matrices are important because they have special properties that make them easier to work with. For example, they have real eigenvalues and can be diagonalized by an orthogonal matrix. They are also used in solving systems of linear equations and in calculating determinants.

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