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University Math Lab: Systems & Structures FREE

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Eigenvalues & Eigenvectors

75 min University Math Lab: Systems & Structures

Learning Objectives

  • Find eigenvalues
  • Calculate eigenvectors
  • Apply to transformations

Key Concepts

Eigenvalue

Scalar λ where Av = λv

Eigenvector

Non-zero vector v where Av = λv

Theory

**Finding Eigenvalues:** 1. Form det(A - λI) = 0 2. Solve characteristic polynomial **Finding Eigenvectors:** 1. For each λ, solve (A - λI)v = 0 2. Find null space of (A - λI) **Significance:** Eigenvectors don't change direction under transformation.

Examples

Find eigenvalues of [[2,1],[1,2]]

Solution: det = (2-λ)² - 1 = 0 → λ = 3, 1

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Knowledge Check

Test your understanding of The Eigen-Finder!