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This paper introduces eigenvalues and eigenvectors, key concepts in linear algebra with applications in various fields such as differential equations and data science. It covers definitions, properties, methods of computation, and provides examples to illustrate their significance. The paper emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts for insights into linear transformations and dynamic systems.

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23 views3 pages

Research

This paper introduces eigenvalues and eigenvectors, key concepts in linear algebra with applications in various fields such as differential equations and data science. It covers definitions, properties, methods of computation, and provides examples to illustrate their significance. The paper emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts for insights into linear transformations and dynamic systems.

Uploaded by

addi boi
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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An Introduction to Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

King
April 8, 2025

Abstract
This paper provides an introduction to eigenvalues and eigenvectors, fundamental
concepts in linear algebra with applications in differential equations, quantum me-
chanics, computer graphics, and data science. We present their definitions, properties,
methods of computation, and illustrate their importance through examples and appli-
cations.

1 Introduction
Linear algebra forms the backbone of many mathematical and computational methods.
Among its key concepts are eigenvalues and eigenvectors, which capture intrinsic proper-
ties of linear transformations. These concepts provide insight into systems of equations,
stability analysis, diagonalization, and much more.

2 Definitions
Let A be an n × n matrix. A non-zero vector v is called an eigenvector of A if:

Av = λv

for some scalar λ, called the eigenvalue corresponding to v.

2.1 Characteristic Equation


Eigenvalues are found by solving the characteristic equation:

det(A − λI) = 0

where I is the identity matrix of the same size as A.

1
Mathematical Resource Paper Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

3 Example
Consider the matrix:  
4 2
A=
1 3
We find the characteristic equation:
4−λ 2
det(A − λI) = = (4 − λ)(3 − λ) − 2 = λ2 − 7λ + 10 = 0
1 3−λ
The eigenvalues are λ1 = 5 and λ2 = 2.
For λ1 = 5, solving (A − 5I)v = 0 gives eigenvector:
 
2
v1 =
1
For λ2 = 2, solving (A − 2I)v = 0 gives eigenvector:
 
−1
v2 =
1

4 Applications
4.1 Differential Equations
Eigenvalues help solve systems of linear differential equations:
dx
= Ax
dt
Solutions often involve terms like eλt where λ are eigenvalues of A.

4.2 Principal Component Analysis (PCA)


In statistics and machine learning, PCA uses eigenvectors of the covariance matrix to find
directions of maximum variance in data.

4.3 Quantum Mechanics


In quantum mechanics, observable quantities correspond to eigenvalues of operators acting
on state vectors.

5 Properties of Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors


• The sum of eigenvalues equals the trace of the matrix.
• The product of eigenvalues equals the determinant of the matrix.
• Eigenvectors corresponding to distinct eigenvalues are linearly independent.

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Mathematical Resource Paper Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

6 Conclusion
Eigenvalues and eigenvectors are indispensable tools in mathematics, physics, engineering,
and data science. Understanding their computation and properties allows for deeper insights
into the structure of linear transformations and the behavior of dynamic systems.

7 References
1. Lay, D. C., Lay, S. R., & McDonald, J. J. (2016). Linear Algebra and Its Applications
(5th ed.). Pearson.

2. Strang, G. (2016). Introduction to Linear Algebra (5th ed.). Wellesley-Cambridge


Press.

3. Trefethen, L. N., & Bau, D. (1997). Numerical Linear Algebra. SIAM.

Page 3

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