Glossary and notation
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Address
Operators, seeds, and packets
A label for a legal operator path or a packet coordinate. Examples include signal phases, residue classes, and positions in a packet tree. An address identifies a location in a representation, not necessarily a physical location.
Adjoint matrix
Finite quantum systems
For a complex matrix in orthonormal bases, the adjoint A* is its conjugate transpose. In real orthonormal bases this is the ordinary transpose.
Also called: Conjugate transpose, Hermitian transpose.
Admissible leaf
Claims and evidence
A node allowed as a starting point under the declared proof-field contract. Selecting such a leaf does not require deriving it again inside that certificate.
Analysis and synthesis
Coordinates and transfer
Analysis sends an object to coordinates. Synthesis returns an object from coordinates. In the finite model, A analyzes and S synthesizes, and exact reconstruction is the identity SA = I.
In the worked example: The analysis A(a,b) = (a,b,a+b) sends (2,3)ᵀ to (2,3,5)ᵀ. The example’s synthesis S returns (2,3)ᵀ, with SA = I₂.
Autonomous dynamics of a summary
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
A transition rule determined by the retained current state, under the declared controls and initialization contract. For deterministic maps, full states with the same summary must have the same next summary.
Basis
Linear foundations
A linearly independent spanning family. Every vector has a unique finite linear combination in that basis. Redundant measurements can describe a vector without forming a basis.
Block matrix
Coordinates and transfer
A matrix grouped into rectangular submatrices according to decompositions of its input and output coordinates. Block products require the inner dimensions to agree.
Born probability
Finite quantum systems
For a density matrix ρ and an orthogonal measurement projector P, the outcome probability is tr(Pρ). A complete orthogonal projector family gives probabilities summing to one.
Calibration span
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
The span of the calibrated input vectors. Consistent exact linear calibration determines the operation on this span. Its outputs can leave that span.
Certificate
Claims and evidence
A structured report describing a particular check, with its evidence class, residuals, and assumptions. The producer determines what was checked. A saved certificate describes a past calculation and needs revalidation for a new one.
Chinese remainder theorem
Arithmetic and error
For pairwise coprime positive moduli, a tuple of residues specifies exactly one residue class modulo their product. Selecting an integer representative requires an additional convention.
Also called: CRT.
Coarsening
Refinement and constraints
Passing to a description that groups or forgets distinctions. Combining fine packets can recover a coarse packet, while discarding the fine values can prevent later reconstruction.
Coefficient
Series and cyclic functions
The scalar multiplying a specified basis term. In f(z) = sum aₙzⁿ, aₙ is the coefficient of zⁿ.
Coefficient convolution
Series and cyclic functions
The multiplication rule cₙ = sum from k=0 to n of aₖbₙ₋ₖ for ordinary power series. Each output coefficient is a finite sum, even when the series are infinite.
Coefficient recurrence
Series and cyclic functions
A rule determining successive series coefficients from earlier ones. It gives exact finite calculations at each degree. Analytic convergence and bounds for a discarded tail require additional arguments.
Also called: Recurrence for coefficients.
Coherence in a chosen basis
Finite quantum systems
Off-diagonal density-matrix entries that encode relations between different basis components. They can contribute to probabilities after a change of measurement basis.
Cokernel
Arithmetic and modules
For a linear map or module map A: U → V, the quotient V/im A. It records target classes modulo those already reached by A.
Commutative ring with identity
Arithmetic and modules
A system with addition, subtraction and commutative multiplication satisfying the ring laws and having a multiplicative identity. A nonzero element need not have a multiplicative inverse.
Commutator
Operators, seeds, and packets
For operators on the same space, [A,B] = AB − BA. A zero commutator means the two orders of composition agree.
Commuting diagram
Refinement and constraints
A diagram in which the declared routes between the same starting and ending objects give the same map. In Example 3 the equality is D_y C = C D.
Compatibility
Refinement and constraints
Agreement between specified maps, operations or levels of a construction. The relevant equality must be stated, such as a coarse projector equaling the sum of its fine children.
Compatible model
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
A model satisfying all supplied data and every declared structural assumption. In the calibration example, all linear extensions of the known restriction are allowed, and each model stays fixed through a trajectory.
Compatible tower
Arithmetic and modules
A collection of objects with specified maps between levels and stated compatibility identities. For modular solutions, the next residue must reduce to the preceding one.
Complete packet family
Operators, seeds, and packets
In these finite examples, projectors Pᵢ with PᵢPⱼ = 0 for distinct indices and sum_i Pᵢ = I. These identities decompose every vector as x = sum_i Pᵢx.
Completion
Refinement and constraints
A construction that adds or realizes limits or missing structure under a specified mathematical definition. There is no single universal completion operation across the collection. A finite compatible tower does not by itself construct an infinite limit.
Keep in mind: Mathematical completion and the editorial completion stage of a paper are different uses of the word.
Complex conjugate
Finite quantum systems
For real a and b, the conjugate of a+bi is a−bi. The squared modulus is (a+bi)(a−bi) = a²+b².
Composition
Coordinates and transfer
Applying one map after another. In a matrix product UT, T acts first and U acts second. The intermediate dimensions or types must agree.
Conditional
Claims and evidence
A result that retains explicitly listed assumptions. In a computation record, some of those assumptions may not have been established by the computation. Passing its checks does not discharge them.
Contracted argument
Series and cyclic functions
Evaluation at qz with 0<q<1 in the feedback example. A term cₙzⁿ becomes cₙqⁿzⁿ after this substitution. The scaling is inside the defining equation.
Coordinate change
Coordinates and transfer
A transformation between descriptions of the same object. In the invertible linear example the convention is y = Cx, so x = C⁻¹y. Keeping track of the direction prevents inverse formulas from being swapped.
Also called: Change of coordinates.
Coordinates
Coordinates and transfer
Values describing an object relative to a chosen representation. Coordinates can be unique basis coefficients or redundant measurements, depending on the setup.
In the worked example: The coordinate change C(a,b) = (a + b/2,b) sends x = (2,3)ᵀ to y = (7/2,3)ᵀ. These describe the same object in two coordinate systems.
Coprime integers
Arithmetic and error
Integers with greatest common divisor one. Pairwise coprime moduli give independent residue coordinates in the ordinary Chinese remainder theorem.
Also called: Relatively prime integers.
Covariance matrix
Inference and probability
For a random vector X with mean m and finite second moments, the matrix E[(X−m)(X−m)ᵀ]. Its diagonal entries are variances. For a unit direction u, uᵀCu is the variance in that direction.
Cyclic vector
Operators, seeds, and packets
For a single linear operator T, a vector v is cyclic when v, Tv, T²v and further iterates span the space under consideration. One cyclic vector is enough to generate that operator module.
Also called: Cyclic seed.
Density matrix
Finite quantum systems
A positive semidefinite Hermitian matrix with trace one. A normalized vector ψ gives the pure-state matrix ρ = ψψ*. Different vectors that differ only by an overall complex phase give the same density matrix.
Dephasing
Finite quantum systems
For a specified complete orthogonal family Pᵢ, the channel ρ ↦ sum PᵢρPᵢ removes coherence between different selected subspaces. Its effect depends on the chosen decomposition.
Derivative in the series example
Series and cyclic functions
For n≥1, differentiating a power-series term aₙzⁿ gives n aₙzⁿ⁻¹. Constant terms differentiate to zero. Formal differentiation acts on coefficients. An analytic interpretation uses the function’s convergence and differentiability conditions.
Detail coefficient
Refinement and constraints
In the Haar pair example, the signed half-difference d = (u−v)/2. It records the information lost when the pair is replaced by its repeated average.
Determinant
Linear foundations
A scalar attached to a square matrix. For [[a,b],[c,d]] it is ad − bc. Over a field, a square matrix is invertible exactly when its determinant is nonzero.
Diagonalizable operator
Operators, seeds, and packets
An operator that has a basis of eigenvectors over the stated field. Equivalently, its matrix becomes diagonal after an invertible change of basis.
Differential equation
Series and cyclic functions
An equation relating an unknown function to one or more of its derivatives. The example also evaluates the same function at contracted arguments qz and rz.
Dimension
Linear foundations
The number of vectors in a basis of a finite-dimensional vector space. In these examples, R² has dimension two even when three redundant measurements are stored.
Direct sum
Linear foundations
A decomposition into subspaces in which each vector has a unique sum of components. For two subspaces, uniqueness is equivalent to their intersection containing only zero.
Discrete memory maps
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
For the block update (y,z) ↦ (Ay+Bz,Gy+Dz), the maps Mₖ=BDᵏG describe a visible-to-hidden entry, k hidden transitions, and a return. The first effect of Mₖ on prepared visible evolution occurs after k+2 full steps.
Domain and codomain
Linear foundations
The declared input and target spaces of a map. The codomain includes all permitted outputs, while the image consists of outputs actually attained.
Dyadic rational
Arithmetic and error
A rational number expressible as an integer divided by a power of two. These are precisely the rational numbers with a finite binary expansion, apart from representation range limits.
Also called: Binary rational.
Eigenspace
Operators, seeds, and packets
For an operator T and scalar λ, the kernel of T − λI. It includes zero and all eigenvectors with eigenvalue λ.
Eigenvalue
Operators, seeds, and packets
A scalar λ such that Tv = λv for some nonzero v over the specified field. A real matrix may have no real eigenvalue even though it has eigenvalues over the complex numbers.
Eigenvector
Operators, seeds, and packets
A nonzero vector v for which Tv = λv. The scalar λ is the associated eigenvalue. Zero is excluded from the definition of eigenvector.
Elimination
Coordinates and transfer
Removing selected unknowns by solving part of a system and substituting into the remaining equations. The substitution requires its stated invertibility or solvability assumptions.
Exact
Arithmetic and error
Computed or stated in exact algebra or arithmetic under the declared hypotheses. Exact rational arithmetic avoids rounding of those rational values. It does not establish an unchecked modeling assumption.
Exact Gaussian gain
Inference and probability
For the declared linear Gaussian model, K=PHᵀ(HPHᵀ+R)⁻¹. Multiplying the innovation by K gives the posterior mean correction. Positive noise covariance makes the displayed observation-space inverse exist.
Exact operator calibration
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
Supplied input-output pairs for an unknown operation. For a linear operation, every linear relation among calibrated inputs must be respected by the supplied outputs.
Extension field
Arithmetic and modules
A field containing a specified smaller field. The extension degree is its vector-space dimension over that smaller field.
Factorization through a map
Refinement and constraints
Writing one map F as G composed with another map R, so F(x) = G(R(x)). This means the intermediate value R(x) contains enough information for the requested output F(x).
Feasibility
Refinement and constraints
Existence of a solution satisfying the stated equations and admissibility conditions. Failure of one candidate or exhaustion of a search budget does not by itself show infeasibility.
Fiber
Refinement and constraints
For a map R and an output s, the set of all inputs with R(x) = s. A proposed observation can be recovered from R(x) alone only if it is constant on each fiber.
Also called: Fibre, Preimage of a point.
In the worked example: For R(a,b) = a+b on R², the fiber over 1 consists of all (t,1−t) with real t. It contains both (1,0) and (0,1).
Field
Linear foundations
A number system with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division by every nonzero element. The rational, real, and complex numbers are examples. A result over one field does not automatically hold over another.
Field norm
Arithmetic and modules
For a finite field extension L/K, the determinant of multiplication by an element a as a K-linear map. In F₂₅/F₅ it is a·a⁵. This norm is algebraic and is not a vector length.
Field trace
Arithmetic and modules
For a finite field extension L/K, the trace of the K-linear map that multiplies L by an element a. In F₂₅/F₅ it is a+a⁵.
Finite check
Claims and evidence
A check over specified, finitely many inputs or cases. Exhaustive checking can prove a claim about that finite domain. Sampling a larger domain does not establish the universal claim without an additional argument.
Finite conditional expectation
Refinement and constraints
For positive weights and a finite partition, replace each value by its group’s weighted mean. The resulting map fixes group-constant vectors and is an orthogonal projector in the corresponding weighted inner product.
Finite proof field
Claims and evidence
A declared finite collection of claim nodes, admissible leaves, and recorded inference rules. Certificate validity is relative to this supplied system.
Finite repair menu
Refinement and constraints
A supplied finite list of candidate directions, with costs and any selection restrictions. Feasibility and optimality are judged using this list and the original target equation.
Finite-dimensional Gaussian model
Inference and probability
A model with a Gaussian state and specified linear observations with Gaussian noise. The tutorial supplies an independent noise variable, a prior mean and covariance, an observation matrix and a positive noise variance.
Finite-field Frobenius
Arithmetic and modules
In a finite field of characteristic p, the map x ↦ xᵖ is an automorphism. Over F_q, the relative Frobenius is x ↦ x^q. The example uses q = p = 5.
Formal reciprocal
Series and cyclic functions
For a power series over a field with nonzero constant coefficient, the unique series whose product with it is one. Its coefficients are determined recursively. A finite truncation only verifies the corresponding finite set of coefficient identities.
Also called: Multiplicative inverse of a formal series.
Free linear repair
Refinement and constraints
A repair problem allowing freely chosen added directions over the declared field. In the rational finite-dimensional setting, the minimum added dimension is the dimension of the span of the target residual classes in the original cokernel.
Haar pair
Refinement and constraints
A two-sample transform that separates an average and a difference. The tutorial uses a = (u+v)/2 and d = (u−v)/2, with inverse (u,v) = (a+d,a−d). Other Haar normalizations use square roots.
Hermitian matrix
Finite quantum systems
A complex square matrix A with A* = A. Its diagonal entries are real and opposite off-diagonal entries are complex conjugates. This condition alone does not imply positivity.
Also called: Self-adjoint matrix.
Heuristic
Claims and evidence
A method for discovery, search or estimation without a complete guarantee for the claimed outcome. Its suggestions can lead to later proofs or checks, but the suggestions alone do not establish them.
Hidden state
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
The part of the declared full state omitted by the current observation or summary. It can influence later visible outputs even when it does not affect the current output.
Hypothesis
Claims and evidence
An assumption required by a statement or construction. It may describe the space, arithmetic, domain, regularity or supplied data. A conclusion applies only where its hypotheses hold.
Ideal
Arithmetic and modules
An additive subgroup of a commutative ring closed under multiplication by every element of the ring. The principal ideal (f) consists of all multiples of f.
Identifiability relative to a model class
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
A requested quantity is identifiable from the supplied data when every compatible model gives the same value. Identifying a particular output can require less information than identifying the whole model.
Identity operator
Linear foundations
The map I that leaves every input unchanged, so Ix = x. The subscript in I₂ or I₃ specifies the dimension when needed.
Image
Linear foundations
The outputs actually attained by a map. For a linear map T, im T = {Tx : x is an allowed input} is a subspace of the target. The declared target can be larger than the image.
Also called: Range, Range of a linear map.
In the worked example: For A(a,b) = (a,b,a+b), the image consists of triples whose third coordinate is the sum of the first two. The coordinate vector (0,0,1)ᵀ lies outside it.
Inclusion-minimal certificate
Claims and evidence
A valid node-and-rule certificate with no valid strictly smaller subcertificate under componentwise inclusion. Several incomparable minimal certificates can exist.
Initial condition
Series and cyclic functions
A specified value, or collection of derivative values, used with a differential equation. The feedback example fixes T(0)=0, and the equation then forces T′(0)=1.
Injective map
Linear foundations
A map that sends distinct inputs to distinct outputs. A linear map is injective exactly when its kernel contains only zero.
Also called: Injection, One-to-one map.
Inner product
Linear foundations
For real vector spaces, a symmetric bilinear pairing with ⟨v,v⟩ > 0 for every nonzero v. It defines lengths and angles. Positive weights give the pairing sum_i w_i u_i v_i. Complex inner products use conjugate symmetry and conjugate linearity in one argument.
Integer congruence
Arithmetic and error
The relation a ≡ b modulo m means m divides a − b, with m a positive integer. It compares residue classes, not the ordinary sizes of a and b.
Intertwiner
Coordinates and transfer
A linear map C connecting operators T and U by CT = UC. Applying T and then C agrees with applying C and then U. An intertwiner need not be invertible.
Invariant subspace
Operators, seeds, and packets
A subspace W preserved by an operator T, meaning T(W) is contained in W. Preservation does not require T to act as the identity on W.
Inverse
Coordinates and transfer
A map that undoes another map in both directions. For a square invertible matrix C, the inverse satisfies C⁻¹C = CC⁻¹ = I.
Irreducible polynomial
Arithmetic and modules
A nonconstant polynomial over a field that cannot be factored into two polynomials of positive degree over that field. For degree two, irreducibility is equivalent to having no root in the field.
Joseph covariance
Inference and probability
For a gain B, the matrix (I−BH)P(I−BH)ᵀ+BRBᵀ. It is positive semidefinite for valid prior and noise covariances. At the exact gain it equals the posterior covariance. A general gain still needs its own accuracy check.
Kernel
Linear foundations
For a linear map T, the vectors sent to zero: ker T = {x : Tx = 0}. A nonzero kernel describes directions that this map cannot distinguish from zero.
Also called: Nullspace, Null space.
In the worked example: For the sum map R(a,b) = a+b over R, the vector (1,−1)ᵀ lies in the kernel: R(1,−1) = 0. Adding this vector does not change the observed sum.
Kraus operators
Finite quantum systems
Matrices Kᵢ describing a finite quantum channel by Φ(ρ) = sum KᵢρKᵢ*. The condition sum Kᵢ*Kᵢ = I makes this map trace preserving.
Also called: Kraus representation.
Lean correspondence
Claims and evidence
A recorded connection between a written claim and a formal Lean statement. Compare hypotheses, the full formal type, source edition, and execution record. A similar declaration name or a working link alone does not establish the correspondence.
Least certificate
Claims and evidence
A certificate contained componentwise in every certificate for the same request and rule system. This is stronger than being inclusion-minimal or having minimum numerical cost.
Left inverse
Coordinates and transfer
For A mapping an input space to a coordinate space, S is a left inverse when SA = I on the input space. This gives exact reconstruction of analyzed inputs. It does not imply AS = I on the entire coordinate space.
In the worked example: The redundant-coordinate example has SA = I₂ but AS ≠ I₃. S recovers every original vector even though it does not invert every three-coordinate input.
Lift
Refinement and constraints
An object at a finer or richer level that maps to a specified object at a coarser level. Existence, uniqueness and compatibility of lifts are separate questions.
Lift branch
Arithmetic and modules
A sequence of solutions at successive levels whose reductions agree. A node at one finite level can have several children or no child.
Likelihood
Inference and probability
For a fixed observed value, the observation density viewed as a function of the proposed state or parameter. It is combined with the prior and normalized to obtain a posterior density when that density formula applies.
Linear extension
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
A linear map on a larger vector space that agrees with a given map on its original subspace. Values on an added basis can vary unless further conditions are imposed.
Linear independence
Linear foundations
A family is linearly independent when the only linear combination giving zero has every coefficient zero. No member of a finite independent family can be formed from the others.
Linear isomorphism
Linear foundations
A bijective linear map between vector spaces over the same field. Its inverse is linear. It preserves the vector-space structure, although lengths need not be preserved.
Also called: Invertible linear map.
Linear map
Linear foundations
A map T satisfying T(au + bv) = aT(u) + bT(v) for all vectors u, v and allowed scalars a, b. A linear map preserves linear combinations.
Also called: Linear transformation.
Linear obstruction witness
Refinement and constraints
A linear functional that annihilates every allowed direction but has a nonzero value on the required target. It proves that this target lies outside their span under the stated linear problem.
Localization at a prime
Arithmetic and modules
A construction that makes ring elements outside a chosen prime ideal invertible, and carries a module along with that scalar change. The prime lies in the module’s support exactly when the localized module is nonzero.
Matrix
Linear foundations
A rectangular array representing a linear map after bases have been chosen. An m by n matrix takes n coordinates to m coordinates. Each output coordinate is a row multiplied by the input column.
Matrix trace
Finite quantum systems
The sum of diagonal entries of a square matrix. It is unchanged by an invertible change of basis. Field trace is a related arithmetic construction with its own definition.
Minimal polynomial
Operators, seeds, and packets
For a linear operator on a nonzero finite-dimensional space over a field, the monic polynomial of least degree with m(T) = 0. It records an exact operator relation.
Minimum-cost certificate
Claims and evidence
A valid certificate attaining the lowest declared total cost among the permitted certificates. Costs count selected items according to the supplied rule, so a shared premise need not be charged each time it is used.
Modular inverse
Arithmetic and error
An integer b with ab ≡ 1 modulo m. For m greater than one, it exists exactly when a and m are coprime. The inverse is a residue class modulo m.
Modular reduction
Arithmetic and modules
Passing from a residue class modulo pⁿ⁺¹ to its class modulo pⁿ. This map forgets the highest retained base-p digit.
Module
Arithmetic and modules
An abelian additive group with a scalar action by a ring satisfying the usual distributive, associative, and identity laws. For a module over Q[t], multiplication by t can be specified by a Q-linear operator.
Module annihilator
Arithmetic and modules
The ideal of ring elements that act as zero on every element of a module. For Q[t]/(tᵏ), the annihilator is the ideal (tᵏ).
Module presentation
Arithmetic and modules
A description of a module by generators and relations. A finite matrix A: Rᵐ → Rⁿ presents the quotient Rⁿ/im A.
Module support
Arithmetic and modules
The prime ideals at which a module’s localization is nonzero. In the example Q[t]/(tᵏ), the support is the single prime ideal (t). The underlying support set does not determine k or the module.
Multiplicity in the module example
Arithmetic and modules
For Q[t]/(tᵏ) supported at t=0, the integer k records the module’s length and its Q-vector-space dimension. This is additional data beyond the one-point support set. Other works use multiplicity with their own specified objects.
Mutual annihilation
Operators, seeds, and packets
The relation PᵢPⱼ = 0 whenever i and j differ. Applying one selection after a different selection gives zero. For a pair of projectors, both orders must be checked.
Nilpotent operator
Operators, seeds, and packets
An operator N for which Nᵏ = 0 for some positive integer k. It can be nonzero. The smallest such k on a nonzero space is its nilpotency index.
Also called: Nilpotent linear map.
Norm
Linear foundations
A nonnegative measure of size that is zero only at the zero vector, scales by the absolute value of a scalar and satisfies the triangle inequality. The Euclidean norm is the square root of the sum of squared coordinates.
Normalization
Coordinates and transfer
A declared scaling convention. For a Haar pair, dividing sums and differences by two gives averages, while dividing by √2 gives a Euclidean norm-preserving transform.
Nullity
Linear foundations
The dimension of the kernel of a finite-dimensional linear map. It counts independent input directions erased by the map.
Numerical
Arithmetic and error
Computed with finite-precision arithmetic and interpreted using a stated error or residual rule. A zero observed floating-point residual does not turn the whole computation into an exact-arithmetic proof.
Numerical ternary
Arithmetic and error
A numerical return whose sign compares the stored result with the exact value under the operation’s contract. Zero means exact, negative means below and positive means above. An error sentinel is not a numerical direction.
Observation innovation
Inference and probability
The difference d=y−Hm between an observation and its predicted mean in the linear model. Its covariance is S=HPHᵀ+R when the state covariance is P and the independent noise covariance is R.
Also called: Observation residual.
Obstruction
Refinement and constraints
An identified reason a requested construction cannot meet its stated conditions. In the recovery example, two inputs have the same coarse value but require different answers, so no recovery function from that value alone exists.
In the worked example: The inputs (1,0) and (0,1) have the same sum but different first coordinates. No function of their sum alone can return the first coordinate for every real input.
Keep in mind: A nonzero numerical residual is not automatically a proof that every possible construction fails.
Operator algebra
Operators, seeds, and packets
In the finite linear setting, a collection of linear operators closed under sums, scalar multiples, and composition. When a unital algebra is intended, the identity operator is included.
Operator conjugation
Coordinates and transfer
The change in an operator matrix under an invertible coordinate change. With y = Cx and original operator T, the new matrix is CTC⁻¹. This usage is distinct from complex conjugation.
Also called: Similarity transformation.
Operator relation
Operators, seeds, and packets
A required equality between legal operator expressions, such as T² = 0. In a typed system, both sides must have the same input and output types.
Orthogonal matrix
Coordinates and transfer
A real square matrix Q with QᵀQ = QQᵀ = I. It preserves the Euclidean inner product and norm. A transform with orthogonal rows can still need normalization to satisfy this identity.
Orthogonal projector
Operators, seeds, and packets
A projector onto a subspace whose residual x − Px is perpendicular to that subspace in the specified inner product. In ordinary real Euclidean coordinates its matrix is symmetric as well as idempotent.
Keep in mind: Orthogonality depends on the inner product. Weighted averaging need not have a symmetric matrix in ordinary coordinates.
p-adic integer
Arithmetic and modules
For a prime p, an element of the inverse limit of the residue rings modulo pⁿ. It specifies a compatible residue at every positive level. A finite list of residues is only a truncation of that data.
Packet
Operators, seeds, and packets
In the finite projector example, a selected component Pᵢx or the subspace in which it lies, according to context. Signal, algebraic and arithmetic works may assign the word more specific meanings.
In the worked example: For x = (2,3)ᵀ, the coordinate projectors give packets P₁x = (2,0)ᵀ and P₂x = (0,3)ᵀ. Their sum recovers x.
Polynomial in an operator
Operators, seeds, and packets
Substitute T into p(t) = a₀ + a₁t + ⋯ + aₙtⁿ to obtain p(T) = a₀I + a₁T + ⋯ + aₙTⁿ. The constant term acts through the identity operator.
Polyphase decomposition
Refinement and constraints
For a sequence x and a positive integer m, the phase r collects samples x_(mk+r), with 0 ≤ r < m. Interleaving all phases reconstructs the indexed sequence. Filtering requires additional boundary and convention choices.
Also called: Polyphase splitting.
Positive semidefinite matrix
Finite quantum systems
A Hermitian matrix A for which v*Av is nonnegative for every vector v. Zero eigenvalues are allowed.
Also called: PSD, PSD matrix.
Posterior distribution
Inference and probability
The state distribution conditional on the observed data under the supplied prior and observation model. The tutorial computes the usual explicit Gaussian conditional density by completing the square.
Also called: Posterior.
Power series
Series and cyclic functions
An expression sum aₙzⁿ with infinitely many coefficient positions. A formal power series is manipulated through its coefficients. Evaluating it at a number additionally requires convergence.
Precision
Arithmetic and error
The capacity of a numerical representation. For the binary model here it is the number of significant binary digits, including the leading bit. More precision does not alone prove that an algorithm or its input is accurate.
Precision matrix
Inference and probability
The inverse covariance when the covariance is invertible. In a nonsingular Gaussian density it appears in the quadratic exponent. This use of precision is distinct from the number of bits in stored arithmetic.
Also called: Inverse covariance matrix.
Prepared hidden initialization
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
An initialization that fixes the hidden coordinates by a specified rule. The example uses R(y)=(y,0). Results for this preparation need not hold for arbitrary hidden starting values.
Prime field
Arithmetic and modules
The smallest subfield of a field. In characteristic p it consists of the p scalar classes and is isomorphic to Fₚ. In characteristic zero it is isomorphic to the rational numbers.
Prime ideal
Arithmetic and modules
A proper ideal P such that ab in P implies a in P or b in P. The ideal (t) in Q[t] is prime because the quotient is the field Q.
Prime power
Arithmetic and modules
An integer pⁿ with p prime and n a nonnegative integer. Successive positive powers give the moduli in the lift-branch example.
Prior distribution
Inference and probability
The state distribution specified before conditioning on the observation under the declared model. A Gaussian prior is described by its mean and covariance.
Also called: Prior.
Projector
Operators, seeds, and packets
A linear operator P satisfying P² = P. Applying it twice has the same effect as applying it once. This algebraic definition does not require orthogonality.
Also called: Projection, Idempotent linear operator.
In the worked example: On R², P₁(a,b) = (a,0). Applying P₁ again still gives (a,0), so P₁² = P₁.
Proof
Claims and evidence
An argument establishing a statement from its hypotheses and accepted prior results. A worked input illustrates a statement. A general identity or argument is needed to establish a claim about every allowed input.
Purity of a density matrix
Finite quantum systems
The number tr(ρ²). For a finite density matrix it equals one exactly for a pure state and is smaller for a mixed state.
Quantum amplitude
Finite quantum systems
A complex coordinate of a normalized state vector in a chosen orthonormal basis. Its squared modulus gives that basis outcome’s probability. Relative phases can affect measurements in other bases.
Quotient space
Linear foundations
The vector space V/W obtained by identifying vectors whose difference lies in a subspace W. A coset x+W records the equivalence class of x.
Rank
Linear foundations
For a finite linear map, the dimension of its image. A matrix has full column rank when its columns are linearly independent, so it has no nonzero input in its kernel.
Keep in mind: Matrix rank and seed rank answer different questions.
Rank–nullity identity
Linear foundations
For a linear map with finite-dimensional domain V, dim V = rank T + nullity T. The rank concerns the image, not the dimension of the entire declared target.
Realization
Operators, seeds, and packets
A way to represent a declared system using concrete spaces and operations while respecting its required relations. A finite matrix realization assigns a space to each type and a matrix to each permitted arrow.
Reconstruction
Refinement and constraints
Recovering an object from its representation under the stated identities. Exact reconstruction may use all packet components or a synthesis map. Dropping components generally introduces a residual.
Recorded inference rule
Claims and evidence
A specified set of premise nodes together with a conclusion node. The certificate can use the rule only when the required premises have been derived and its recorded certification permits it.
Redundant coordinates
Coordinates and transfer
A representation containing more coordinate entries than are needed for a basis description. Valid coordinate lists can satisfy relations, such as a third measurement being the sum of the first two.
Also called: Redundant representation.
Keep in mind: The reconstruction components SEᵢA can sum to the identity without being projectors.
Refinement
Refinement and constraints
A compatible move from a coarser description to a finer one. In finite packet refinement, each fine packet has a coarse parent and each coarse projector is the sum of its children.
In the worked example: The zero-based even indices split into residue classes 0 and 2 modulo 4. Their selectors satisfy P₀ = F₀ + F₂.
Repair direction
Refinement and constraints
An allowed vector added to the span of the original image so that a required target can become reachable. Both the target equation and the permitted coefficient system must remain specified.
Repair selection cost
Refinement and constraints
The declared cost of the selected repair choices. In the tutorial it is the sum of their selection costs, paid once per choice, independently of the rational coefficients used to combine them.
Residual
Arithmetic and error
A discrepancy computed for a specified identity or reconstruction. In Example 5 it is r = x − x̂. Other operations may use a different sign or norm, so the definition belongs with the reported number.
In the worked example: Dropping residue class 2 modulo 4 from (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8) gives r = (0,0,3,0,0,0,7,0). Its squared Euclidean norm is 58.
Residue class
Refinement and constraints
Integers with the same remainder modulo a positive integer m. Two integers belong to the same class when their difference is a multiple of m. Even and odd indices are the two classes modulo two.
Reusable calibrated core
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
For the tutorial’s unrestricted linear extension class and full-state output, the largest subspace inside the calibration span preserved by every calibrated operation. All finite operation sequences from this subspace are determined by the calibration.
Root of unity
Series and cyclic functions
A complex number ω with ωᴺ = 1 for a positive integer N. It is primitive when N is its least positive such exponent. A weighted average over the powers of a primitive Nth root selects coefficients in one residue class modulo N.
Rounding
Arithmetic and error
Choosing a representable stored value for an exact value according to a specified rule. Nearest, ties to even chooses the closer value and resolves an exact midpoint by the parity of the last retained significand bit.
Scalar
Linear foundations
A number from the declared coefficient field, used to multiply vectors. The hand-worked matrix examples use real scalars and exact rational entries.
Schur complement
Coordinates and transfer
For the block matrix [[A,B],[C,D]] with invertible A, the Schur complement of A is D − CA⁻¹B. It is the remaining operator after eliminating the first block of unknowns.
Seed
Operators, seeds, and packets
Initial generating data from which the allowed operator action produces further elements. Whether a seed is sufficient depends on both the object and the declared action.
In the worked example: On R², let N(a,b) = (b,0) and v = (0,1). Then Nv = (1,0), so v and its image generate every vector by linear combinations.
Seed rank
Operators, seeds, and packets
In the finite linear example, the least number of seeds whose operator-generated span is the whole space. More general definitions can involve modules, dense generation, and cardinalities. Read the definition in the chosen work.
In the worked example: For N(a,b) = (b,0) on R², one seed v = (0,1) suffices. With only the zero operator and the identity, two seeds are needed on the same space.
Semigroup law for evolution maps
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
The identity Eₘ₊ₙ=EₘEₙ for nonnegative step counts, with E₀ the identity. It expresses agreement between uninterrupted evolution and successive uses of the same state-level evolution maps.
Span
Linear foundations
All finite linear combinations of a specified set of vectors. The span of the empty set consists only of the zero vector. With an operator action, one may first apply allowed operators and then take the span.
Spectral projector
Operators, seeds, and packets
In the diagonalizable finite example, the projector onto one eigenspace along the sum of the others. Distinct eigenvalues allow a polynomial interpolation formula for these projectors.
State augmentation
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
Enlarging a retained state with additional coordinates or history needed for future prediction. The hidden-memory example retains the previous visible value along with the current one.
Subspace
Linear foundations
A subset of a vector space that contains zero and is closed under addition and scalar multiplication. Kernels and images of linear maps are subspaces.
Surjective map
Linear foundations
A map whose image is its entire declared target. Surjectivity depends on which target is specified.
Also called: Surjection, Onto map.
Survival to a finite level
Arithmetic and modules
A branch reaches the chosen last level without losing compatibility or the required equations. Survival to that level alone says nothing about the next one.
Theorem
Claims and evidence
A mathematical statement established by a proof from its specified assumptions. A theorem may be conditional on explicit hypotheses, even when the implication itself is fully proved.
Tolerance
Arithmetic and error
A declared threshold used by a numerical acceptance rule. Its units, scaling and comparison must match the residual being checked. A residual below tolerance is evidence within that rule, not exact equality in general.
Transfer block
Coordinates and transfer
The part of an operation connecting a source component to a target component. With source projector Pᵢ, target projector Qⱼ and operator T, the block is QⱼTPᵢ. Complete source and target families allow the blocks to reconstruct T.
In the worked example: For T = [[1,2],[3,4]], the coordinate block P₁TP₂ sends (2,3)ᵀ to (6,0)ᵀ. It carries source coordinate 2 into target coordinate 1.
Truncation
Series and cyclic functions
Keeping only specified degrees or levels. Equality modulo zᴺ means the coefficients of degrees below N agree. It need not be equality of the full functions or series.
Typed path
Operators, seeds, and packets
A sequence of arrows in which each output type matches the next input type. Its realization is the corresponding ordered composition. An empty path at a type acts as its identity.
Typed system
Operators, seeds, and packets
A system that records which objects an operation accepts and returns. A path of operations is legal only when consecutive input and output types agree. Types are part of the mathematical specification.
ULP
Arithmetic and error
A unit in the last retained place at a specified precision and exponent. In the three-bit example the spacing in [1, 2) is 1/4, while the spacing in [2, 4) is 1/2. It is not one fixed absolute distance.
Also called: Unit in the last place.
Unitary matrix
Finite quantum systems
A complex square matrix U with U*U = UU* = I. It preserves the complex inner product and therefore vector norms.
Vector
Linear foundations
An element of a vector space. In the finite examples it is a column of numbers. Its coordinates depend on a chosen representation.
Vector space
Linear foundations
A collection of vectors closed under addition and scalar multiplication, with the usual distributive and associative laws. The space of pairs of real numbers is denoted R².
Verification closure
Claims and evidence
The nodes obtainable by admitting selected admissible leaves and repeatedly applying the retained certified rules whose premises are available.
Visible state
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
The state coordinates or summary retained for a specified prediction task. A visible value need not contain enough information to determine its own next value.
Zeroth Fitting ideal
Arithmetic and modules
For a finite presentation Rᵐ → Rⁿ → M → 0 over a commutative ring, the ideal generated by the n by n minors of the presentation matrix. In the one-generator example with relation tᵏ, it is (tᵏ).
This guide explains 183 terms used in the collection and its finite examples. Use the first reading route, compare nearby ideas, browse a subject, or open the alphabetical index.
Find a glossary term on the reading website: search names, abbreviations, definitions and short examples, or choose a subject. Open the glossary beside a paper with Read side by side.
A word can have a more specific meaning in another paper. The paper’s definitions and hypotheses take precedence. Examples and source links provide context without changing any recorded evidence status.
Look up notation across the collection · Work through the calculations by hand · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code by topic · First software runs
A first reading
Follow these terms for a short route through the finite examples. Each definition links to a worked calculation.
- Realization · Seed · Seed rank — Identify the system, the allowed action and the data that generate it.
- Projector · Packet — See how an object splits into selected components.
- Coordinates · Analysis and synthesis — Follow a representation from the object to coordinates and back.
- Transfer block · Residual — Track an operation between components and check a reconstruction.
Compare nearby ideas
These distinctions use the glossary’s stated settings. Follow both entries for their definitions and examples.
| Terms | Distinction to keep in view |
|---|---|
| Seed rank / Dimension | Seed rank counts generators under the declared operator action. Vector-space dimension counts basis vectors under scalar linear combinations. In the two-dimensional seed example, seed rank is one. |
| Projector / Orthogonal projector | A projector satisfies P² = P. Orthogonality additionally depends on an inner product; algebraic packet reconstruction also permits oblique projectors. |
| Left inverse / Inverse | SA = I recovers original objects after analysis. A two-sided inverse also satisfies AS = I on the coordinate space. Redundant coordinates can have the first identity without the second. |
| Kernel / Fiber | For a linear map, the kernel is the fiber over zero. Every nonempty fiber is a translate of that kernel. Fibers of a general nonlinear map need not have this form. |
| Residual / Obstruction | A residual records a discrepancy for the stated calculation. An obstruction rules out a proposed construction under specified assumptions. A nonzero residual alone need not rule out a different construction. |
| Precision / Precision matrix | Arithmetic precision counts significant digits in a representation. A precision matrix is an inverse covariance. The shared word refers to different objects. |
| Finite check / Proof | Exhaustive checking can prove a statement about its declared finite domain. Sampled cases in a larger domain require an additional argument to establish a universal statement. |
Browse by subject
- Linear foundations — 26 terms
- Operators, seeds, and packets — 24 terms
- Coordinates and transfer — 15 terms
- Refinement and constraints — 21 terms
- Arithmetic and error — 13 terms
- Claims and evidence — 15 terms
- Series and cyclic functions — 11 terms
- Finite quantum systems — 13 terms
- Arithmetic and modules — 23 terms
- Dynamics, memory, and calibration — 13 terms
- Inference and probability — 9 terms
Linear foundations
The objects and notation used in the finite examples.
Scalar · Field · Vector · Vector space · Linear map · Matrix · Identity operator · Span · Linear independence · Basis · Dimension · Kernel · Image · Rank · Inner product · Norm · Subspace · Nullity · Rank–nullity identity · Injective map · Surjective map · Linear isomorphism · Direct sum · Quotient space · Determinant · Domain and codomain
Scalar
A number from the declared coefficient field, used to multiply vectors. The hand-worked matrix examples use real scalars and exact rational entries.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Vector
Field
A number system with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division by every nonzero element. The rational, real, and complex numbers are examples. A result over one field does not automatically hold over another.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Scalar
Vector
An element of a vector space. In the finite examples it is a column of numbers. Its coordinates depend on a chosen representation.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Vector space · Coordinates
Vector space
A collection of vectors closed under addition and scalar multiplication, with the usual distributive and associative laws. The space of pairs of real numbers is denoted R².
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Span · Basis
Linear map
A map T satisfying T(au + bv) = aT(u) + bT(v) for all vectors u, v and allowed scalars a, b. A linear map preserves linear combinations.
Also called: Linear transformation.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Matrix · Kernel · Image
Matrix
A rectangular array representing a linear map after bases have been chosen. An m by n matrix takes n coordinates to m coordinates. Each output coordinate is a row multiplied by the input column.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Linear map · Basis · Composition
Identity operator
The map I that leaves every input unchanged, so Ix = x. The subscript in I₂ or I₃ specifies the dimension when needed.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inverse · Complete packet family
Span
All finite linear combinations of a specified set of vectors. The span of the empty set consists only of the zero vector. With an operator action, one may first apply allowed operators and then take the span.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Seed · Basis · Linear independence
Linear independence
A family is linearly independent when the only linear combination giving zero has every coefficient zero. No member of a finite independent family can be formed from the others.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Span · Basis
Basis
A linearly independent spanning family. Every vector has a unique finite linear combination in that basis. Redundant measurements can describe a vector without forming a basis.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Span · Linear independence · Redundant coordinates
Dimension
The number of vectors in a basis of a finite-dimensional vector space. In these examples, R² has dimension two even when three redundant measurements are stored.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Basis · Rank · Seed rank
Kernel
For a linear map T, the vectors sent to zero: ker T = {x : Tx = 0}. A nonzero kernel describes directions that this map cannot distinguish from zero.
Also called: Nullspace, Null space.
In the worked example: For the sum map R(a,b) = a+b over R, the vector (1,−1)ᵀ lies in the kernel: R(1,−1) = 0. Adding this vector does not change the observed sum.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Image · Fiber · Factorization through a map
Image
The outputs actually attained by a map. For a linear map T, im T = {Tx : x is an allowed input} is a subspace of the target. The declared target can be larger than the image.
Also called: Range, Range of a linear map.
In the worked example: For A(a,b) = (a,b,a+b), the image consists of triples whose third coordinate is the sum of the first two. The coordinate vector (0,0,1)ᵀ lies outside it.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Rank · Left inverse
Rank
For a finite linear map, the dimension of its image. A matrix has full column rank when its columns are linearly independent, so it has no nonzero input in its kernel.
Keep in mind: Matrix rank and seed rank answer different questions.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Dimension · Image · Seed rank
Inner product
For real vector spaces, a symmetric bilinear pairing with ⟨v,v⟩ > 0 for every nonzero v. It defines lengths and angles. Positive weights give the pairing sum_i w_i u_i v_i. Complex inner products use conjugate symmetry and conjugate linearity in one argument.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Norm · Orthogonal projector
Norm
A nonnegative measure of size that is zero only at the zero vector, scales by the absolute value of a scalar and satisfies the triangle inequality. The Euclidean norm is the square root of the sum of squared coordinates.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inner product · Residual · Tolerance
Subspace
A subset of a vector space that contains zero and is closed under addition and scalar multiplication. Kernels and images of linear maps are subspaces.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Image
Nullity
The dimension of the kernel of a finite-dimensional linear map. It counts independent input directions erased by the map.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Dimension
Rank–nullity identity
For a linear map with finite-dimensional domain V, dim V = rank T + nullity T. The rank concerns the image, not the dimension of the entire declared target.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Rank · Nullity
Injective map
A map that sends distinct inputs to distinct outputs. A linear map is injective exactly when its kernel contains only zero.
Also called: Injection, One-to-one map.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Left inverse
Surjective map
A map whose image is its entire declared target. Surjectivity depends on which target is specified.
Also called: Surjection, Onto map.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Image · Rank
Linear isomorphism
A bijective linear map between vector spaces over the same field. Its inverse is linear. It preserves the vector-space structure, although lengths need not be preserved.
Also called: Invertible linear map.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inverse · Coordinate change
Direct sum
A decomposition into subspaces in which each vector has a unique sum of components. For two subspaces, uniqueness is equivalent to their intersection containing only zero.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Subspace · Complete packet family
Quotient space
The vector space V/W obtained by identifying vectors whose difference lies in a subspace W. A coset x+W records the equivalence class of x.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Subspace · Fiber
Determinant
A scalar attached to a square matrix. For [[a,b],[c,d]] it is ad − bc. Over a field, a square matrix is invertible exactly when its determinant is nonzero.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inverse · Field
Domain and codomain
The declared input and target spaces of a map. The codomain includes all permitted outputs, while the image consists of outputs actually attained.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Image · Surjective map · Typed system
Operators, seeds, and packets
How an allowed action generates, selects, and decomposes objects.
Realization · Seed · Address · Projector · Packet · Typed system · Operator algebra · Seed rank · Cyclic vector · Orthogonal projector · Complete packet family · Mutual annihilation · Invariant subspace · Eigenvector · Eigenvalue · Eigenspace · Diagonalizable operator · Polynomial in an operator · Minimal polynomial · Spectral projector · Commutator · Typed path · Operator relation · Nilpotent operator
Realization
A way to represent a declared system using concrete spaces and operations while respecting its required relations. A finite matrix realization assigns a space to each type and a matrix to each permitted arrow.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Typed system · Operator algebra · Compatibility
Seed
Initial generating data from which the allowed operator action produces further elements. Whether a seed is sufficient depends on both the object and the declared action.
In the worked example: On R², let N(a,b) = (b,0) and v = (0,1). Then Nv = (1,0), so v and its image generate every vector by linear combinations.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Span · Seed rank · Cyclic vector
Address
A label for a legal operator path or a packet coordinate. Examples include signal phases, residue classes, and positions in a packet tree. An address identifies a location in a representation, not necessarily a physical location.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Typed system · Packet · Residue class
Projector
A linear operator P satisfying P² = P. Applying it twice has the same effect as applying it once. This algebraic definition does not require orthogonality.
Also called: Projection, Idempotent linear operator.
In the worked example: On R², P₁(a,b) = (a,0). Applying P₁ again still gives (a,0), so P₁² = P₁.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Orthogonal projector · Packet · Redundant coordinates
Packet
In the finite projector example, a selected component Pᵢx or the subspace in which it lies, according to context. Signal, algebraic and arithmetic works may assign the word more specific meanings.
In the worked example: For x = (2,3)ᵀ, the coordinate projectors give packets P₁x = (2,0)ᵀ and P₂x = (0,3)ᵀ. Their sum recovers x.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Complete packet family · Address
Typed system
A system that records which objects an operation accepts and returns. A path of operations is legal only when consecutive input and output types agree. Types are part of the mathematical specification.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Linear map · Composition · Realization
Operator algebra
In the finite linear setting, a collection of linear operators closed under sums, scalar multiples, and composition. When a unital algebra is intended, the identity operator is included.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Composition · Seed · Invariant subspace
Seed rank
In the finite linear example, the least number of seeds whose operator-generated span is the whole space. More general definitions can involve modules, dense generation, and cardinalities. Read the definition in the chosen work.
In the worked example: For N(a,b) = (b,0) on R², one seed v = (0,1) suffices. With only the zero operator and the identity, two seeds are needed on the same space.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Seed · Span · Rank
Cyclic vector
For a single linear operator T, a vector v is cyclic when v, Tv, T²v and further iterates span the space under consideration. One cyclic vector is enough to generate that operator module.
Also called: Cyclic seed.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Seed · Span
Orthogonal projector
A projector onto a subspace whose residual x − Px is perpendicular to that subspace in the specified inner product. In ordinary real Euclidean coordinates its matrix is symmetric as well as idempotent.
Keep in mind: Orthogonality depends on the inner product. Weighted averaging need not have a symmetric matrix in ordinary coordinates.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Inner product
Complete packet family
In these finite examples, projectors Pᵢ with PᵢPⱼ = 0 for distinct indices and sum_i Pᵢ = I. These identities decompose every vector as x = sum_i Pᵢx.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Mutual annihilation · Reconstruction
Mutual annihilation
The relation PᵢPⱼ = 0 whenever i and j differ. Applying one selection after a different selection gives zero. For a pair of projectors, both orders must be checked.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Complete packet family
Invariant subspace
A subspace W preserved by an operator T, meaning T(W) is contained in W. Preservation does not require T to act as the identity on W.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Span · Operator algebra
Eigenvector
A nonzero vector v for which Tv = λv. The scalar λ is the associated eigenvalue. Zero is excluded from the definition of eigenvector.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Eigenvalue · Invariant subspace
Eigenvalue
A scalar λ such that Tv = λv for some nonzero v over the specified field. A real matrix may have no real eigenvalue even though it has eigenvalues over the complex numbers.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Eigenvector · Field
Eigenspace
For an operator T and scalar λ, the kernel of T − λI. It includes zero and all eigenvectors with eigenvalue λ.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Eigenvector
Diagonalizable operator
An operator that has a basis of eigenvectors over the stated field. Equivalently, its matrix becomes diagonal after an invertible change of basis.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Basis · Eigenvector · Coordinate change
Polynomial in an operator
Substitute T into p(t) = a₀ + a₁t + ⋯ + aₙtⁿ to obtain p(T) = a₀I + a₁T + ⋯ + aₙTⁿ. The constant term acts through the identity operator.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Operator algebra · Identity operator
Minimal polynomial
For a linear operator on a nonzero finite-dimensional space over a field, the monic polynomial of least degree with m(T) = 0. It records an exact operator relation.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Polynomial in an operator · Operator relation
Spectral projector
In the diagonalizable finite example, the projector onto one eigenspace along the sum of the others. Distinct eigenvalues allow a polynomial interpolation formula for these projectors.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Eigenspace · Diagonalizable operator
Commutator
For operators on the same space, [A,B] = AB − BA. A zero commutator means the two orders of composition agree.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Composition · Operator algebra
Typed path
A sequence of arrows in which each output type matches the next input type. Its realization is the corresponding ordered composition. An empty path at a type acts as its identity.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Typed system · Composition · Identity operator
Operator relation
A required equality between legal operator expressions, such as T² = 0. In a typed system, both sides must have the same input and output types.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Typed path · Realization · Minimal polynomial
Nilpotent operator
An operator N for which Nᵏ = 0 for some positive integer k. It can be nonzero. The smallest such k on a nonzero space is its nilpotency index.
Also called: Nilpotent linear map.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Operator algebra · Minimal polynomial
Coordinates and transfer
How descriptions change and operations move between components.
Coordinates · Analysis and synthesis · Transfer block · Coordinate change · Inverse · Left inverse · Redundant coordinates · Composition · Operator conjugation · Intertwiner · Block matrix · Schur complement · Elimination · Orthogonal matrix · Normalization
Coordinates
Values describing an object relative to a chosen representation. Coordinates can be unique basis coefficients or redundant measurements, depending on the setup.
In the worked example: The coordinate change C(a,b) = (a + b/2,b) sends x = (2,3)ᵀ to y = (7/2,3)ᵀ. These describe the same object in two coordinate systems.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Basis · Coordinate change · Redundant coordinates
Analysis and synthesis
Analysis sends an object to coordinates. Synthesis returns an object from coordinates. In the finite model, A analyzes and S synthesizes, and exact reconstruction is the identity SA = I.
In the worked example: The analysis A(a,b) = (a,b,a+b) sends (2,3)ᵀ to (2,3,5)ᵀ. The example’s synthesis S returns (2,3)ᵀ, with SA = I₂.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Left inverse · Coordinates · Reconstruction
Transfer block
The part of an operation connecting a source component to a target component. With source projector Pᵢ, target projector Qⱼ and operator T, the block is QⱼTPᵢ. Complete source and target families allow the blocks to reconstruct T.
In the worked example: For T = [[1,2],[3,4]], the coordinate block P₁TP₂ sends (2,3)ᵀ to (6,0)ᵀ. It carries source coordinate 2 into target coordinate 1.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Projector · Composition · Reconstruction
Coordinate change
A transformation between descriptions of the same object. In the invertible linear example the convention is y = Cx, so x = C⁻¹y. Keeping track of the direction prevents inverse formulas from being swapped.
Also called: Change of coordinates.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coordinates · Inverse · Operator conjugation
Inverse
A map that undoes another map in both directions. For a square invertible matrix C, the inverse satisfies C⁻¹C = CC⁻¹ = I.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Identity operator · Left inverse
Left inverse
For A mapping an input space to a coordinate space, S is a left inverse when SA = I on the input space. This gives exact reconstruction of analyzed inputs. It does not imply AS = I on the entire coordinate space.
In the worked example: The redundant-coordinate example has SA = I₂ but AS ≠ I₃. S recovers every original vector even though it does not invert every three-coordinate input.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inverse · Analysis and synthesis · Image
Redundant coordinates
A representation containing more coordinate entries than are needed for a basis description. Valid coordinate lists can satisfy relations, such as a third measurement being the sum of the first two.
Also called: Redundant representation.
Keep in mind: The reconstruction components SEᵢA can sum to the identity without being projectors.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Basis · Analysis and synthesis · Projector
Composition
Applying one map after another. In a matrix product UT, T acts first and U acts second. The intermediate dimensions or types must agree.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Typed system · Matrix · Transfer block
Operator conjugation
The change in an operator matrix under an invertible coordinate change. With y = Cx and original operator T, the new matrix is CTC⁻¹. This usage is distinct from complex conjugation.
Also called: Similarity transformation.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coordinate change · Intertwiner
Intertwiner
A linear map C connecting operators T and U by CT = UC. Applying T and then C agrees with applying C and then U. An intertwiner need not be invertible.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Operator conjugation · Commuting diagram
Block matrix
A matrix grouped into rectangular submatrices according to decompositions of its input and output coordinates. Block products require the inner dimensions to agree.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Matrix · Transfer block
Schur complement
For the block matrix [[A,B],[C,D]] with invertible A, the Schur complement of A is D − CA⁻¹B. It is the remaining operator after eliminating the first block of unknowns.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Block matrix · Elimination · Inverse
Elimination
Removing selected unknowns by solving part of a system and substituting into the remaining equations. The substitution requires its stated invertibility or solvability assumptions.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Schur complement · Reconstruction
Orthogonal matrix
A real square matrix Q with QᵀQ = QQᵀ = I. It preserves the Euclidean inner product and norm. A transform with orthogonal rows can still need normalization to satisfy this identity.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inner product · Norm · Normalization
Normalization
A declared scaling convention. For a Haar pair, dividing sums and differences by two gives averages, while dividing by √2 gives a Euclidean norm-preserving transform.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Haar pair · Orthogonal matrix
Refinement and constraints
How descriptions become finer, discard information or meet a compatibility condition.
Refinement · Obstruction · Coarsening · Polyphase decomposition · Residue class · Compatibility · Commuting diagram · Reconstruction · Fiber · Factorization through a map · Lift · Finite conditional expectation · Completion · Haar pair · Detail coefficient · Repair direction · Free linear repair · Finite repair menu · Repair selection cost · Feasibility · Linear obstruction witness
Refinement
A compatible move from a coarser description to a finer one. In finite packet refinement, each fine packet has a coarse parent and each coarse projector is the sum of its children.
In the worked example: The zero-based even indices split into residue classes 0 and 2 modulo 4. Their selectors satisfy P₀ = F₀ + F₂.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coarsening · Compatibility · Residue class
Obstruction
An identified reason a requested construction cannot meet its stated conditions. In the recovery example, two inputs have the same coarse value but require different answers, so no recovery function from that value alone exists.
In the worked example: The inputs (1,0) and (0,1) have the same sum but different first coordinates. No function of their sum alone can return the first coordinate for every real input.
Keep in mind: A nonzero numerical residual is not automatically a proof that every possible construction fails.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Fiber · Factorization through a map · Residual
Coarsening
Passing to a description that groups or forgets distinctions. Combining fine packets can recover a coarse packet, while discarding the fine values can prevent later reconstruction.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Refinement · Obstruction · Fiber
Polyphase decomposition
For a sequence x and a positive integer m, the phase r collects samples x_(mk+r), with 0 ≤ r < m. Interleaving all phases reconstructs the indexed sequence. Filtering requires additional boundary and convention choices.
Also called: Polyphase splitting.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Address · Residue class · Reconstruction
Residue class
Integers with the same remainder modulo a positive integer m. Two integers belong to the same class when their difference is a multiple of m. Even and odd indices are the two classes modulo two.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Polyphase decomposition · Address
Compatibility
Agreement between specified maps, operations or levels of a construction. The relevant equality must be stated, such as a coarse projector equaling the sum of its fine children.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Commuting diagram · Refinement · Completion
Commuting diagram
A diagram in which the declared routes between the same starting and ending objects give the same map. In Example 3 the equality is D_y C = C D.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Composition · Compatibility · Intertwiner
Reconstruction
Recovering an object from its representation under the stated identities. Exact reconstruction may use all packet components or a synthesis map. Dropping components generally introduces a residual.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Analysis and synthesis · Residual · Complete packet family
Fiber
For a map R and an output s, the set of all inputs with R(x) = s. A proposed observation can be recovered from R(x) alone only if it is constant on each fiber.
Also called: Fibre, Preimage of a point.
In the worked example: For R(a,b) = a+b on R², the fiber over 1 consists of all (t,1−t) with real t. It contains both (1,0) and (0,1).
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Kernel · Factorization through a map
Factorization through a map
Writing one map F as G composed with another map R, so F(x) = G(R(x)). This means the intermediate value R(x) contains enough information for the requested output F(x).
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Fiber · Obstruction · Composition
Lift
An object at a finer or richer level that maps to a specified object at a coarser level. Existence, uniqueness and compatibility of lifts are separate questions.
Further reading · Refinement · Compatibility · Obstruction
Finite conditional expectation
For positive weights and a finite partition, replace each value by its group’s weighted mean. The resulting map fixes group-constant vectors and is an orthogonal projector in the corresponding weighted inner product.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Orthogonal projector · Inner product · Coarsening
Completion
A construction that adds or realizes limits or missing structure under a specified mathematical definition. There is no single universal completion operation across the collection. A finite compatible tower does not by itself construct an infinite limit.
Keep in mind: Mathematical completion and the editorial completion stage of a paper are different uses of the word.
Further reading · Compatibility · Lift
Haar pair
A two-sample transform that separates an average and a difference. The tutorial uses a = (u+v)/2 and d = (u−v)/2, with inverse (u,v) = (a+d,a−d). Other Haar normalizations use square roots.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Detail coefficient · Normalization · Refinement
Detail coefficient
In the Haar pair example, the signed half-difference d = (u−v)/2. It records the information lost when the pair is replaced by its repeated average.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Haar pair · Residual
Repair direction
An allowed vector added to the span of the original image so that a required target can become reachable. Both the target equation and the permitted coefficient system must remain specified.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Image · Span · Finite repair menu
Free linear repair
A repair problem allowing freely chosen added directions over the declared field. In the rational finite-dimensional setting, the minimum added dimension is the dimension of the span of the target residual classes in the original cokernel.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Repair direction · Cokernel · Dimension
Finite repair menu
A supplied finite list of candidate directions, with costs and any selection restrictions. Feasibility and optimality are judged using this list and the original target equation.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Repair direction · Repair selection cost · Feasibility
Repair selection cost
The declared cost of the selected repair choices. In the tutorial it is the sum of their selection costs, paid once per choice, independently of the rational coefficients used to combine them.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Finite repair menu · Free linear repair
Feasibility
Existence of a solution satisfying the stated equations and admissibility conditions. Failure of one candidate or exhaustion of a search budget does not by itself show infeasibility.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Hypothesis · Obstruction · Certificate
Linear obstruction witness
A linear functional that annihilates every allowed direction but has a nonzero value on the required target. It proves that this target lies outside their span under the stated linear problem.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Linear map · Kernel · Obstruction · Feasibility
Arithmetic and error
How exact values, stored approximations, and error measures differ.
Residual · Exact · Numerical · Precision · Dyadic rational · Rounding · ULP · Numerical ternary · Tolerance · Integer congruence · Coprime integers · Modular inverse · Chinese remainder theorem
Residual
A discrepancy computed for a specified identity or reconstruction. In Example 5 it is r = x − x̂. Other operations may use a different sign or norm, so the definition belongs with the reported number.
In the worked example: Dropping residue class 2 modulo 4 from (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8) gives r = (0,0,3,0,0,0,7,0). Its squared Euclidean norm is 58.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Norm · Tolerance · Obstruction
Exact
Computed or stated in exact algebra or arithmetic under the declared hypotheses. Exact rational arithmetic avoids rounding of those rational values. It does not establish an unchecked modeling assumption.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Numerical · Hypothesis · Dyadic rational
Numerical
Computed with finite-precision arithmetic and interpreted using a stated error or residual rule. A zero observed floating-point residual does not turn the whole computation into an exact-arithmetic proof.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Exact · Residual · Tolerance
Precision
The capacity of a numerical representation. For the binary model here it is the number of significant binary digits, including the leading bit. More precision does not alone prove that an algorithm or its input is accurate.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Rounding · ULP · Numerical
Dyadic rational
A rational number expressible as an integer divided by a power of two. These are precisely the rational numbers with a finite binary expansion, apart from representation range limits.
Also called: Binary rational.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Exact · Rounding
Rounding
Choosing a representable stored value for an exact value according to a specified rule. Nearest, ties to even chooses the closer value and resolves an exact midpoint by the parity of the last retained significand bit.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Precision · ULP · Numerical ternary
ULP
A unit in the last retained place at a specified precision and exponent. In the three-bit example the spacing in [1, 2) is 1/4, while the spacing in [2, 4) is 1/2. It is not one fixed absolute distance.
Also called: Unit in the last place.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Precision · Rounding
Numerical ternary
A numerical return whose sign compares the stored result with the exact value under the operation’s contract. Zero means exact, negative means below and positive means above. An error sentinel is not a numerical direction.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Rounding · Exact
Tolerance
A declared threshold used by a numerical acceptance rule. Its units, scaling and comparison must match the residual being checked. A residual below tolerance is evidence within that rule, not exact equality in general.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Residual · Norm · Numerical
Integer congruence
The relation a ≡ b modulo m means m divides a − b, with m a positive integer. It compares residue classes, not the ordinary sizes of a and b.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Residue class · Modular inverse
Coprime integers
Integers with greatest common divisor one. Pairwise coprime moduli give independent residue coordinates in the ordinary Chinese remainder theorem.
Also called: Relatively prime integers.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Chinese remainder theorem · Integer congruence
Modular inverse
An integer b with ab ≡ 1 modulo m. For m greater than one, it exists exactly when a and m are coprime. The inverse is a residue class modulo m.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Integer congruence · Coprime integers
Chinese remainder theorem
For pairwise coprime positive moduli, a tuple of residues specifies exactly one residue class modulo their product. Selecting an integer representative requires an additional convention.
Also called: CRT.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Residue class · Coprime integers · Reconstruction
Claims and evidence
How to read assumptions, proofs, formal links, and computation records.
Certificate · Conditional · Lean correspondence · Hypothesis · Theorem · Proof · Heuristic · Finite check · Finite proof field · Admissible leaf · Recorded inference rule · Verification closure · Inclusion-minimal certificate · Least certificate · Minimum-cost certificate
Certificate
A structured report describing a particular check, with its evidence class, residuals, and assumptions. The producer determines what was checked. A saved certificate describes a past calculation and needs revalidation for a new one.
Further reading · How to inspect a proof · Exact · Numerical · Conditional
Conditional
A result that retains explicitly listed assumptions. In a computation record, some of those assumptions may not have been established by the computation. Passing its checks does not discharge them.
Further reading · How to inspect a proof · Hypothesis · Certificate · Completion
Lean correspondence
A recorded connection between a written claim and a formal Lean statement. Compare hypotheses, the full formal type, source edition, and execution record. A similar declaration name or a working link alone does not establish the correspondence.
Further reading · How to inspect a proof · Proof · Theorem · Certificate
Hypothesis
An assumption required by a statement or construction. It may describe the space, arithmetic, domain, regularity or supplied data. A conclusion applies only where its hypotheses hold.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Conditional · Theorem · Certificate
Theorem
A mathematical statement established by a proof from its specified assumptions. A theorem may be conditional on explicit hypotheses, even when the implication itself is fully proved.
Further reading · How to inspect a proof · Hypothesis · Proof · Conditional
Proof
An argument establishing a statement from its hypotheses and accepted prior results. A worked input illustrates a statement. A general identity or argument is needed to establish a claim about every allowed input.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Theorem · Finite check · Lean correspondence
Heuristic
A method for discovery, search or estimation without a complete guarantee for the claimed outcome. Its suggestions can lead to later proofs or checks, but the suggestions alone do not establish them.
Further reading · How to inspect a proof · Proof · Finite check
Finite check
A check over specified, finitely many inputs or cases. Exhaustive checking can prove a claim about that finite domain. Sampling a larger domain does not establish the universal claim without an additional argument.
Hand-worked example · Further reading · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Proof · Certificate · Hypothesis
Finite proof field
A declared finite collection of claim nodes, admissible leaves, and recorded inference rules. Certificate validity is relative to this supplied system.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Recorded inference rule · Admissible leaf · Certificate
Admissible leaf
A node allowed as a starting point under the declared proof-field contract. Selecting such a leaf does not require deriving it again inside that certificate.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Finite proof field · Hypothesis
Recorded inference rule
A specified set of premise nodes together with a conclusion node. The certificate can use the rule only when the required premises have been derived and its recorded certification permits it.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Finite proof field · Verification closure
Verification closure
The nodes obtainable by admitting selected admissible leaves and repeatedly applying the retained certified rules whose premises are available.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Admissible leaf · Recorded inference rule · Certificate
Inclusion-minimal certificate
A valid node-and-rule certificate with no valid strictly smaller subcertificate under componentwise inclusion. Several incomparable minimal certificates can exist.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Certificate · Least certificate · Minimum-cost certificate
Least certificate
A certificate contained componentwise in every certificate for the same request and rule system. This is stronger than being inclusion-minimal or having minimum numerical cost.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inclusion-minimal certificate · Minimum-cost certificate
Minimum-cost certificate
A valid certificate attaining the lowest declared total cost among the permitted certificates. Costs count selected items according to the supplied rule, so a shared premise need not be charged each time it is used.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Certificate · Least certificate · Finite proof field
Series and cyclic functions
Coefficient operations and the distinction between a finite truncation and an infinite series.
Coefficient · Power series · Truncation · Formal reciprocal · Coefficient convolution · Root of unity · Derivative in the series example · Differential equation · Initial condition · Contracted argument · Coefficient recurrence
Coefficient
The scalar multiplying a specified basis term. In f(z) = sum aₙzⁿ, aₙ is the coefficient of zⁿ.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Scalar · Basis
Power series
An expression sum aₙzⁿ with infinitely many coefficient positions. A formal power series is manipulated through its coefficients. Evaluating it at a number additionally requires convergence.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coefficient · Truncation
Truncation
Keeping only specified degrees or levels. Equality modulo zᴺ means the coefficients of degrees below N agree. It need not be equality of the full functions or series.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Power series · Residual
Formal reciprocal
For a power series over a field with nonzero constant coefficient, the unique series whose product with it is one. Its coefficients are determined recursively. A finite truncation only verifies the corresponding finite set of coefficient identities.
Also called: Multiplicative inverse of a formal series.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Power series · Coefficient convolution · Field
Coefficient convolution
The multiplication rule cₙ = sum from k=0 to n of aₖbₙ₋ₖ for ordinary power series. Each output coefficient is a finite sum, even when the series are infinite.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coefficient · Power series
Root of unity
A complex number ω with ωᴺ = 1 for a positive integer N. It is primitive when N is its least positive such exponent. A weighted average over the powers of a primitive Nth root selects coefficients in one residue class modulo N.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Residue class · Packet
Derivative in the series example
For n≥1, differentiating a power-series term aₙzⁿ gives n aₙzⁿ⁻¹. Constant terms differentiate to zero. Formal differentiation acts on coefficients. An analytic interpretation uses the function’s convergence and differentiability conditions.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coefficient · Power series
Differential equation
An equation relating an unknown function to one or more of its derivatives. The example also evaluates the same function at contracted arguments qz and rz.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Derivative in the series example · Initial condition · Contracted argument
Initial condition
A specified value, or collection of derivative values, used with a differential equation. The feedback example fixes T(0)=0, and the equation then forces T′(0)=1.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Differential equation · Derivative in the series example
Contracted argument
Evaluation at qz with 0<q<1 in the feedback example. A term cₙzⁿ becomes cₙqⁿzⁿ after this substitution. The scaling is inside the defining equation.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coefficient · Differential equation
Coefficient recurrence
A rule determining successive series coefficients from earlier ones. It gives exact finite calculations at each degree. Analytic convergence and bounds for a discarded tail require additional arguments.
Also called: Recurrence for coefficients.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Coefficient · Truncation · Coefficient convolution
Finite quantum systems
States, measurement and channels on finite complex vector spaces.
Complex conjugate · Adjoint matrix · Unitary matrix · Quantum amplitude · Density matrix · Matrix trace · Born probability · Purity of a density matrix · Dephasing · Kraus operators · Hermitian matrix · Positive semidefinite matrix · Coherence in a chosen basis
Complex conjugate
For real a and b, the conjugate of a+bi is a−bi. The squared modulus is (a+bi)(a−bi) = a²+b².
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Inner product · Scalar
Adjoint matrix
For a complex matrix in orthonormal bases, the adjoint A* is its conjugate transpose. In real orthonormal bases this is the ordinary transpose.
Also called: Conjugate transpose, Hermitian transpose.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Complex conjugate · Inner product
Unitary matrix
A complex square matrix U with UU = UU = I. It preserves the complex inner product and therefore vector norms.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Adjoint matrix · Norm · Orthogonal matrix
Quantum amplitude
A complex coordinate of a normalized state vector in a chosen orthonormal basis. Its squared modulus gives that basis outcome’s probability. Relative phases can affect measurements in other bases.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Complex conjugate · Born probability · Coordinates
Density matrix
A positive semidefinite Hermitian matrix with trace one. A normalized vector ψ gives the pure-state matrix ρ = ψψ*. Different vectors that differ only by an overall complex phase give the same density matrix.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Adjoint matrix · Matrix trace · Purity of a density matrix
Matrix trace
The sum of diagonal entries of a square matrix. It is unchanged by an invertible change of basis. Field trace is a related arithmetic construction with its own definition.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Matrix · Field trace
Born probability
For a density matrix ρ and an orthogonal measurement projector P, the outcome probability is tr(Pρ). A complete orthogonal projector family gives probabilities summing to one.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Density matrix · Matrix trace · Orthogonal projector
Purity of a density matrix
The number tr(ρ²). For a finite density matrix it equals one exactly for a pure state and is smaller for a mixed state.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Density matrix · Matrix trace
Dephasing
For a specified complete orthogonal family Pᵢ, the channel ρ ↦ sum PᵢρPᵢ removes coherence between different selected subspaces. Its effect depends on the chosen decomposition.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Density matrix · Projector · Kraus operators
Kraus operators
Matrices Kᵢ describing a finite quantum channel by Φ(ρ) = sum KᵢρKᵢ. The condition sum KᵢKᵢ = I makes this map trace preserving.
Also called: Kraus representation.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Adjoint matrix · Density matrix · Matrix trace
Hermitian matrix
A complex square matrix A with A* = A. Its diagonal entries are real and opposite off-diagonal entries are complex conjugates. This condition alone does not imply positivity.
Also called: Self-adjoint matrix.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Adjoint matrix · Positive semidefinite matrix
Positive semidefinite matrix
A Hermitian matrix A for which v*Av is nonnegative for every vector v. Zero eigenvalues are allowed.
Also called: PSD, PSD matrix.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Hermitian matrix · Eigenvalue · Density matrix
Coherence in a chosen basis
Off-diagonal density-matrix entries that encode relations between different basis components. They can contribute to probabilities after a change of measurement basis.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Density matrix · Dephasing · Quantum amplitude
Arithmetic and modules
Finite fields, lift branches, and the module data behind support.
Prime power · Modular reduction · Lift branch · Compatible tower · p-adic integer · Survival to a finite level · Prime field · Extension field · Finite-field Frobenius · Field trace · Field norm · Irreducible polynomial · Commutative ring with identity · Module · Module presentation · Cokernel · Module annihilator · Module support · Zeroth Fitting ideal · Multiplicity in the module example · Ideal · Prime ideal · Localization at a prime
Prime power
An integer pⁿ with p prime and n a nonnegative integer. Successive positive powers give the moduli in the lift-branch example.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Integer congruence · Prime field
Modular reduction
Passing from a residue class modulo pⁿ⁺¹ to its class modulo pⁿ. This map forgets the highest retained base-p digit.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Prime power · Residue class · Coarsening
Lift branch
A sequence of solutions at successive levels whose reductions agree. A node at one finite level can have several children or no child.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Lift · Modular reduction · Compatible tower
Compatible tower
A collection of objects with specified maps between levels and stated compatibility identities. For modular solutions, the next residue must reduce to the preceding one.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Compatibility · Modular reduction · Completion
p-adic integer
For a prime p, an element of the inverse limit of the residue rings modulo pⁿ. It specifies a compatible residue at every positive level. A finite list of residues is only a truncation of that data.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Compatible tower · Prime power · Truncation
Survival to a finite level
A branch reaches the chosen last level without losing compatibility or the required equations. Survival to that level alone says nothing about the next one.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Lift branch · Finite check
Prime field
The smallest subfield of a field. In characteristic p it consists of the p scalar classes and is isomorphic to Fₚ. In characteristic zero it is isomorphic to the rational numbers.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Integer congruence
Extension field
A field containing a specified smaller field. The extension degree is its vector-space dimension over that smaller field.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Dimension · Prime field
Finite-field Frobenius
In a finite field of characteristic p, the map x ↦ xᵖ is an automorphism. Over F_q, the relative Frobenius is x ↦ x^q. The example uses q = p = 5.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Extension field · Linear isomorphism
Field trace
For a finite field extension L/K, the trace of the K-linear map that multiplies L by an element a. In F₂₅/F₅ it is a+a⁵.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Matrix trace · Extension field · Finite-field Frobenius
Field norm
For a finite field extension L/K, the determinant of multiplication by an element a as a K-linear map. In F₂₅/F₅ it is a·a⁵. This norm is algebraic and is not a vector length.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Determinant · Extension field · Norm
Irreducible polynomial
A nonconstant polynomial over a field that cannot be factored into two polynomials of positive degree over that field. For degree two, irreducibility is equivalent to having no root in the field.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Extension field
Commutative ring with identity
A system with addition, subtraction and commutative multiplication satisfying the ring laws and having a multiplicative identity. A nonzero element need not have a multiplicative inverse.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Field · Module
Module
An abelian additive group with a scalar action by a ring satisfying the usual distributive, associative, and identity laws. For a module over Q[t], multiplication by t can be specified by a Q-linear operator.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Commutative ring with identity · Operator algebra
Module presentation
A description of a module by generators and relations. A finite matrix A: Rᵐ → Rⁿ presents the quotient Rⁿ/im A.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Module · Cokernel · Image
Cokernel
For a linear map or module map A: U → V, the quotient V/im A. It records target classes modulo those already reached by A.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Quotient space · Image · Module
Module annihilator
The ideal of ring elements that act as zero on every element of a module. For Q[t]/(tᵏ), the annihilator is the ideal (tᵏ).
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Module · Nilpotent operator · Commutative ring with identity
Module support
The prime ideals at which a module’s localization is nonzero. In the example Q[t]/(tᵏ), the support is the single prime ideal (t). The underlying support set does not determine k or the module.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Module · Module annihilator · Multiplicity in the module example
Zeroth Fitting ideal
For a finite presentation Rᵐ → Rⁿ → M → 0 over a commutative ring, the ideal generated by the n by n minors of the presentation matrix. In the one-generator example with relation tᵏ, it is (tᵏ).
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Module presentation · Determinant · Module support
Multiplicity in the module example
For Q[t]/(tᵏ) supported at t=0, the integer k records the module’s length and its Q-vector-space dimension. This is additional data beyond the one-point support set. Other works use multiplicity with their own specified objects.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Dimension · Module support · Nilpotent operator
Ideal
An additive subgroup of a commutative ring closed under multiplication by every element of the ring. The principal ideal (f) consists of all multiples of f.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Commutative ring with identity · Module annihilator
Prime ideal
A proper ideal P such that ab in P implies a in P or b in P. The ideal (t) in Q[t] is prime because the quotient is the field Q.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Ideal · Commutative ring with identity · Field
Localization at a prime
A construction that makes ring elements outside a chosen prime ideal invertible, and carries a module along with that scalar change. The prime lies in the module’s support exactly when the localized module is nonzero.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Prime ideal · Module support · Module
Dynamics, memory, and calibration
What a retained state predicts and what exact observations determine.
Visible state · Hidden state · Prepared hidden initialization · Discrete memory maps · Autonomous dynamics of a summary · State augmentation · Semigroup law for evolution maps · Exact operator calibration · Calibration span · Compatible model · Linear extension · Reusable calibrated core · Identifiability relative to a model class
Visible state
The state coordinates or summary retained for a specified prediction task. A visible value need not contain enough information to determine its own next value.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Hidden state · Autonomous dynamics of a summary · Coarsening
Hidden state
The part of the declared full state omitted by the current observation or summary. It can influence later visible outputs even when it does not affect the current output.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Visible state · Discrete memory maps
Prepared hidden initialization
An initialization that fixes the hidden coordinates by a specified rule. The example uses R(y)=(y,0). Results for this preparation need not hold for arbitrary hidden starting values.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Hidden state · Reconstruction · Autonomous dynamics of a summary
Discrete memory maps
For the block update (y,z) ↦ (Ay+Bz,Gy+Dz), the maps Mₖ=BDᵏG describe a visible-to-hidden entry, k hidden transitions, and a return. The first effect of Mₖ on prepared visible evolution occurs after k+2 full steps.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Block matrix · Hidden state · Prepared hidden initialization
Autonomous dynamics of a summary
A transition rule determined by the retained current state, under the declared controls and initialization contract. For deterministic maps, full states with the same summary must have the same next summary.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Visible state · Fiber · Factorization through a map
State augmentation
Enlarging a retained state with additional coordinates or history needed for future prediction. The hidden-memory example retains the previous visible value along with the current one.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Visible state · Hidden state · Autonomous dynamics of a summary
Semigroup law for evolution maps
The identity Eₘ₊ₙ=EₘEₙ for nonnegative step counts, with E₀ the identity. It expresses agreement between uninterrupted evolution and successive uses of the same state-level evolution maps.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Composition · Identity operator · Prepared hidden initialization
Exact operator calibration
Supplied input-output pairs for an unknown operation. For a linear operation, every linear relation among calibrated inputs must be respected by the supplied outputs.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Linear map · Calibration span · Compatible model
Calibration span
The span of the calibrated input vectors. Consistent exact linear calibration determines the operation on this span. Its outputs can leave that span.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Exact operator calibration · Span · Reusable calibrated core
Compatible model
A model satisfying all supplied data and every declared structural assumption. In the calibration example, all linear extensions of the known restriction are allowed, and each model stays fixed through a trajectory.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Exact operator calibration · Linear extension · Identifiability relative to a model class
Linear extension
A linear map on a larger vector space that agrees with a given map on its original subspace. Values on an added basis can vary unless further conditions are imposed.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Linear map · Subspace · Basis
Reusable calibrated core
For the tutorial’s unrestricted linear extension class and full-state output, the largest subspace inside the calibration span preserved by every calibrated operation. All finite operation sequences from this subspace are determined by the calibration.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Calibration span · Invariant subspace · Compatible model
Identifiability relative to a model class
A requested quantity is identifiable from the supplied data when every compatible model gives the same value. Identifying a particular output can require less information than identifying the whole model.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Compatible model · Exact operator calibration · Obstruction
Inference and probability
The model, observation and Gaussian calculations used in the inference example.
Finite-dimensional Gaussian model · Prior distribution · Likelihood · Posterior distribution · Covariance matrix · Precision matrix · Observation innovation · Exact Gaussian gain · Joseph covariance
Finite-dimensional Gaussian model
A model with a Gaussian state and specified linear observations with Gaussian noise. The tutorial supplies an independent noise variable, a prior mean and covariance, an observation matrix and a positive noise variance.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Prior distribution · Likelihood · Covariance matrix
Prior distribution
The state distribution specified before conditioning on the observation under the declared model. A Gaussian prior is described by its mean and covariance.
Also called: Prior.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Finite-dimensional Gaussian model · Posterior distribution · Covariance matrix
Likelihood
For a fixed observed value, the observation density viewed as a function of the proposed state or parameter. It is combined with the prior and normalized to obtain a posterior density when that density formula applies.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Prior distribution · Posterior distribution · Finite-dimensional Gaussian model
Posterior distribution
The state distribution conditional on the observed data under the supplied prior and observation model. The tutorial computes the usual explicit Gaussian conditional density by completing the square.
Also called: Posterior.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Prior distribution · Likelihood · Exact Gaussian gain
Covariance matrix
For a random vector X with mean m and finite second moments, the matrix E[(X−m)(X−m)ᵀ]. Its diagonal entries are variances. For a unit direction u, uᵀCu is the variance in that direction.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Positive semidefinite matrix · Finite-dimensional Gaussian model · Precision matrix
Precision matrix
The inverse covariance when the covariance is invertible. In a nonsingular Gaussian density it appears in the quadratic exponent. This use of precision is distinct from the number of bits in stored arithmetic.
Also called: Inverse covariance matrix.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Covariance matrix · Inverse · Precision
Observation innovation
The difference d=y−Hm between an observation and its predicted mean in the linear model. Its covariance is S=HPHᵀ+R when the state covariance is P and the independent noise covariance is R.
Also called: Observation residual.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Finite-dimensional Gaussian model · Covariance matrix · Exact Gaussian gain
Exact Gaussian gain
For the declared linear Gaussian model, K=PHᵀ(HPHᵀ+R)⁻¹. Multiplying the innovation by K gives the posterior mean correction. Positive noise covariance makes the displayed observation-space inverse exist.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Observation innovation · Posterior distribution · Joseph covariance
Joseph covariance
For a gain B, the matrix (I−BH)P(I−BH)ᵀ+BRBᵀ. It is positive semidefinite for valid prior and noise covariances. At the exact gain it equals the posterior covariance. A general gain still needs its own accuracy check.
Hand-worked example · Papers, proofs, Lean, and code · Covariance matrix · Exact Gaussian gain · Positive semidefinite matrix
Symbols in the introductory example
The examples use the following notation. The reading column spells out symbols for readers who are unfamiliar with them.
| Symbol | Read as | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| x, y, v | Vector names | Objects or their coordinate columns, as declared in the example. |
| R², R³ | R two, R three | Real coordinate spaces of dimensions two and three. |
| xᵀ | x transpose | A row or column with its orientation exchanged. |
| Iₙ | I sub n | The identity matrix on n coordinates. |
| Pᵢ | P sub i | A projector in the declared family. |
| Σᵢ Pᵢx | Sum over i of P sub i applied to x | Add the selected components. The examples use finite sums. |
| A, S | A, S | Analysis and synthesis maps where that convention is declared. |
| C⁻¹ | C inverse | The inverse of an invertible coordinate change C. |
| QⱼTPᵢ | Q sub j, T, P sub i | Select source i, apply T, then select target j. |
| ker R, im R | Kernel of R, image of R | Inputs sent to zero and outputs attained by a linear map. |
| G ∘ R | G composed with R | Apply R first and G second. |
| span{v, Nv} | Span of v and N v | All scalar linear combinations of the displayed vectors. |
| ⟨u, v⟩w | Inner product of u and v with weights w | The weighted pairing defined in Example 8. |
| ‖x‖₂² | Squared Euclidean norm of x | Sum of squares of real coordinates. |
| x̂ | x hat | An approximation or reconstruction, as defined locally. |
| xₖₘ₊ᵣ | x sub k m plus r | A sequence entry whose index has remainder r modulo m. |
| 1.101₂ | One point one zero one in base two | The binary fraction 1 + 1/2 + 1/8. |
Symbols are local to their definitions. In another paper, the same letter can denote a different object.
Alphabetical index
A · B · C · D · E · F · H · I · J · K · L · M · N · O · P · Q · R · S · T · U · V · Z
A
Address · Adjoint matrix · Admissible leaf · Analysis and synthesis · Autonomous dynamics of a summary
B
Basis · Block matrix · Born probability
C
Calibration span · Certificate · Chinese remainder theorem · Coarsening · Coefficient · Coefficient convolution · Coefficient recurrence · Coherence in a chosen basis · Cokernel · Commutative ring with identity · Commutator · Commuting diagram · Compatibility · Compatible model · Compatible tower · Complete packet family · Completion · Complex conjugate · Composition · Conditional · Contracted argument · Coordinate change · Coordinates · Coprime integers · Covariance matrix · Cyclic vector
D
Density matrix · Dephasing · Derivative in the series example · Detail coefficient · Determinant · Diagonalizable operator · Differential equation · Dimension · Direct sum · Discrete memory maps · Domain and codomain · Dyadic rational
E
Eigenspace · Eigenvalue · Eigenvector · Elimination · Exact · Exact Gaussian gain · Exact operator calibration · Extension field
F
Factorization through a map · Feasibility · Fiber · Field · Field norm · Field trace · Finite check · Finite conditional expectation · Finite proof field · Finite repair menu · Finite-dimensional Gaussian model · Finite-field Frobenius · Formal reciprocal · Free linear repair
H
Haar pair · Hermitian matrix · Heuristic · Hidden state · Hypothesis
I
Ideal · Identifiability relative to a model class · Identity operator · Image · Inclusion-minimal certificate · Initial condition · Injective map · Inner product · Integer congruence · Intertwiner · Invariant subspace · Inverse · Irreducible polynomial
J
K
L
Lean correspondence · Least certificate · Left inverse · Lift · Lift branch · Likelihood · Linear extension · Linear independence · Linear isomorphism · Linear map · Linear obstruction witness · Localization at a prime
M
Matrix · Matrix trace · Minimal polynomial · Minimum-cost certificate · Modular inverse · Modular reduction · Module · Module annihilator · Module presentation · Module support · Multiplicity in the module example · Mutual annihilation
N
Nilpotent operator · Norm · Normalization · Nullity · Numerical · Numerical ternary
O
Observation innovation · Obstruction · Operator algebra · Operator conjugation · Operator relation · Orthogonal matrix · Orthogonal projector
P
p-adic integer · Packet · Polynomial in an operator · Polyphase decomposition · Positive semidefinite matrix · Posterior distribution · Power series · Precision · Precision matrix · Prepared hidden initialization · Prime field · Prime ideal · Prime power · Prior distribution · Projector · Proof · Purity of a density matrix
Q
Quantum amplitude · Quotient space
R
Rank · Rank–nullity identity · Realization · Reconstruction · Recorded inference rule · Redundant coordinates · Refinement · Repair direction · Repair selection cost · Residual · Residue class · Reusable calibrated core · Root of unity · Rounding
S
Scalar · Schur complement · Seed · Seed rank · Semigroup law for evolution maps · Span · Spectral projector · State augmentation · Subspace · Surjective map · Survival to a finite level
T
Theorem · Tolerance · Transfer block · Truncation · Typed path · Typed system
U
V
Vector · Vector space · Verification closure · Visible state
Z
Reading routes · Hand-worked examples · First runs · Browse works