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What are the eigenvalue and eigenvector for the reversed direction of a reflection about y=−xy=-x?

For the reflection about y=−xy=-x, the vector (1,1)(1,1) is mapped to (−1,−1)(-1,-1). Since (−1,−1)=−1⋅(1,1)(-1,-1) = -1 \cdot (1,1), the vector (1,1)(1,1) is an eigenvector with an eigenvalue of −1-1.

Conditions

  • The transformation is a reflection about the line y=−xy=-x.
  • The vector is nonzero.
  • The vector is perpendicular to the reflection line.

Reasoning, step by step

  1. Identify a vector perpendicular to the reflection line y=−xy=-x, such as (1,1)(1,1).
  2. Apply the reflection transformation to (1,1)(1,1).
  3. Observe that the result is (−1,−1)(-1,-1).
  4. Factor out −1-1 from the result: (−1,−1)=−1⋅(1,1)(-1,-1) = -1 \cdot (1,1).
  5. Compare this to the eigenvalue equation Av=λvAv = \lambda v.
  6. Conclude that λ=−1\lambda = -1 for the eigenvector (1,1)(1,1).
  7. Verify: −1⋅(1,1)=(−1,−1)-1 \cdot (1,1) = (-1,-1).

Example

The script states: 'The vector (1,1) maps to (−1,−1), so its eigenvalue is −1.'

Common misconceptions

  • Thinking that vectors perpendicular to the reflection line are unchanged.
  • Assuming the eigenvalue for reversed vectors is 1.
  • Confusing the direction (1,1)(1,1) with (1,−1)(1,-1).

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