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REFLECTION MATRIX

Reflection Matrix

Definition Of Reflection Matrix

A matrix that is used to reflect an object over a line or plane is called a reflection matrix.

Examples of Reflection Matrix

The figure below shows the reflection of triangle ABC about the y-axis.
is the reflection matrix for the y-axis.

Examples of Reflection Matrix

Video Examples: Reflection Matrix

Solved Example on Reflection Matrix

Ques: Find the coordinates of the vertices of the ../image_md of triangle ABC with A(1, 3), B(-1, 1), C(3, 1) after a reflection across the y-axis.

Choices:

A. A'(- 1, 3), B'(1, 1), C'(- 3, 1)
B. A'(- 1, - 3), B'(1, 1), C'(- 3, 1)
C. A'(- 1, 3), B'(1, - 1), C'(- 3, 1)
D. A'(- 1, 3), B'(1, 1), C'(3, 1)

Solution:

Step 1: The coordinates of the vertices of triangle ABC are given by A(1, 3), B(-1, 1), C(3, 1)
Step 2: Then multiply the vertex matrix by reflection matrix for the y-axis
 
Examples of Reflection Matrix
Step 3: Therefore, the coordinates of the vertices of A'B'C' are A'(- 1, 3), B'(1, 1), C'(- 3, 1).

Quick Summary

  • Reflection matrices are used to mirror objects across a line or plane.
  • The reflection matrix for the y-axis in 2D is [[-1, 0], [0, 1]].
  • Applying a reflection matrix involves matrix multiplication with the coordinate matrix of the object.
\[ R = I - 2(v v^T)/(v^T v), where v is the normal vector to the reflection line/plane, and I is the identity matrix. \]

🍎 Teacher Insights

Use visual aids and interactive software to demonstrate the effect of reflection matrices on geometric shapes. Emphasize the geometric interpretation of matrix multiplication.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Matrix Multiplication
  • Coordinate Geometry
  • Transformations
  • Vectors

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: What is the reflection of the point (2,3) across the y-axis?

Q2: Which matrix represents reflection across the x-axis?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I find the reflection matrix for a line other than the x or y axis?
A: You can use a rotation matrix to align the line with the x-axis, perform the reflection, and then rotate back.

Q: Is a reflection matrix orthogonal?
A: Yes, reflection matrices are orthogonal, meaning their transpose is equal to their inverse.

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