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How does scalar multiplication preserve the relation x₃=x₁+x₂?

Scalar multiplication preserves the relation because multiplying the equation x3=x1+x2x_3 = x_1 + x_2 by a scalar cc yields cx3=cx1+cx2cx_3 = cx_1 + cx_2. This shows that the third component of the scaled vector cxcx equals the sum of its first and second components.

Conditions

  • xx is a vector in the set satisfying x3=x1+x2x_3 = x_1 + x_2.
  • cc is a real scalar.
  • Scalar multiplication is defined componentwise.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Start with the defining equation for vector xx: x3=x1+x2x_3 = x_1 + x_2.
  2. Multiply both sides of the equation by the scalar cc.
  3. Use the distributive property of real numbers: c(x1+x2)=cx1+cx2c(x_1 + x_2) = cx_1 + cx_2.
  4. Identify the components of the scaled vector cxcx as (cx1,cx2,cx3)(cx_1, cx_2, cx_3).
  5. Conclude that (cx)3=(cx)1+(cx)2(cx)_3 = (cx)_1 + (cx)_2, so cxcx is in the set.

Example

The script states: 'Multiplying x₃=x₁+x₂ by any real scalar gives cx₃=cx₁+cx₂.'

Common misconceptions

  • Forgetting to distribute the scalar to all terms.
  • Assuming the scalar only multiplies the left side.
  • Confusing scalar multiplication with vector addition.

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