Q-Vandermonde Identity - Proofs of The Identity

Proofs of The Identity

As with the (non-q) Chu-Vandermonde identity, there are several possible proofs of the q-Vandermonde identity. We give one proof here, using the q-binomial theorem.

One standard proof of the Chu-Vandermonde identity is to expand the product in two different ways. Following Stanley, we can tweak this proof to prove the q-Vandermonde identity, as well. First, observe that the product

can be expanded by the q-binomial theorem as

Less obviously, we can write

and we may expand both subproducts separately using the q-binomial theorem. This yields

Multiplying this latter product out and combining like terms gives

Finally, equating powers of between the two expressions yields the desired result.

This argument may also be phrased in terms of expanding the product in two different ways, where A and B are operators (for example, a pair of matrices) that "q-commute," that is, that satisfy .


Read more about this topic:  Q-Vandermonde Identity

Famous quotes containing the words proofs of, proofs and/or identity:

    A man’s women folk, whatever their outward show of respect for his merit and authority, always regard him secretly as an ass, and with something akin to pity. His most gaudy sayings and doings seldom deceive them; they see the actual man within, and know him for a shallow and pathetic fellow. In this fact, perhaps, lies one of the best proofs of feminine intelligence, or, as the common phrase makes it, feminine intuition.
    —H.L. (Henry Lewis)

    I do not think that a Physician should be admitted into the College till he could bring proofs of his having cured, in his own person, at least four incurable distempers.
    Philip Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl Chesterfield (1694–1773)

    The adolescent does not develop her identity and individuality by moving outside her family. She is not triggered by some magic unconscious dynamic whereby she rejects her family in favour of her peers or of a larger society.... She continues to develop in relation to her parents. Her mother continues to have more influence over her than either her father or her friends.
    Terri Apter (20th century)