Skip to main content
Skip to calculator
Advertisement

Last updated: July 31, 2026

Eigenvalue and Eigenvector Calculator

Helpful
Not helpful
Save as image
Share
Embed
Cite
Write feedback

Formula

For matrix [[a,b],[c,d]]: λ = (trace ± √(trace² - 4det))/2; eigenvectors solved from (A-λI)v=0

Where:

  • a=a
  • b=b
  • c=c
  • d=d
Eigenvalue and EigenvectorA matrix applied to an eigenvector only stretches it by the eigenvalue, without changing its direction.vAv = λvFormulaAv = λvdet(A - λI) = 0λ = eigenvaluev = eigenvector
An eigenvector keeps its direction under the matrix transformation, scaled only by its eigenvalue λ.

Worked Examples

Distinct real eigenvalues

Matrix [[4,1],[2,3]].

  1. 1trace=7, det=10
  2. 2λ=(7±3)/2 => 5 and 2
  3. 3Compute normalized eigenvectors
Final Answer: lambda1=5, lambda2=2, v1≈(0.707107,0.707107), v2≈(0.447214,-0.894427)

Diagonal matrix

Matrix [[2,0],[0,5]].

  1. 1Eigenvalues are diagonal entries
  2. 2Standard basis vectors are eigenvectors
Final Answer: lambda1=5, lambda2=2, eigenvectors align with axes

Symmetric matrix

Matrix [[3,1],[1,3]].

  1. 1trace=6, det=8
  2. 2λ=4 and 2
  3. 3Compute orthogonal eigenvectors
Final Answer: lambda1=4, lambda2=2 with normalized vectors returned

Introduction

Find real eigenvalues and normalized eigenvectors for a 2×2 matrix, ideal for linear algebra checks and study.

Formula and Method

Eigenvalue and Eigenvector Calculator uses: For matrix [[a,b],[c,d]]: λ = (trace ± √(trace² - 4det))/2; eigenvectors solved from (A-λI)v=0

  • Enter all required inputs

  • Apply the underlying math formula(s)

  • Compute supporting terms where needed

  • Round numeric outputs for stable display

Input Fields

Provide values for: a, b, c, d.

  1. 1

    a: a

  2. 2

    b: b

  3. 3

    c: c

  4. 4

    d: d

Output Fields

The calculator returns: lambda1, lambda2, v1x, v1y, v2x, v2y.

  1. 1

    lambda1: First real eigenvalue

  2. 2

    lambda2: Second real eigenvalue

  3. 3

    v1x: x-component of normalized eigenvector for lambda1

  4. 4

    v1y: y-component of normalized eigenvector for lambda1

  5. 5

    v2x: x-component of normalized eigenvector for lambda2

  6. 6

    v2y: y-component of normalized eigenvector for lambda2

Validation Rules

Input validation is applied before calculation to prevent invalid math states.

  • All matrix entries must be finite numbers.

  • Only real eigenvalues are supported (discriminant must be non-negative).

  • Eigenvectors are normalized to unit length.

  • Outputs are rounded to 6 decimals.

How to Use This Calculator

Fill in the inputs, run the calculator, and review primary output first.

  • Enter the required values

  • Click calculate

  • Check the primary output

  • Use example scenarios for verification

Practical Uses

This calculator supports learning, quick checks, and day-to-day technical problem solving.

  • Homework and exam preparation

  • Engineering and science sanity checks

  • Classroom demonstrations

  • Fast recalculation with different inputs

FAQs

What does the Eigenvalue and Eigenvector Calculator compute?

Find real eigenvalues and normalized eigenvectors for a 2×2 matrix, ideal for linear algebra checks and study.

Which inputs are required?

Required inputs: a, b, c, d.

How should I format numbers?

Use finite numeric values; decimals and negative numbers are allowed unless restricted by validation rules.

How are results rounded?

Numeric outputs are rounded to about 6 decimal places for readability.

Why might I see an error?

All matrix entries must be finite numbers.

Can I use this for learning and verification?

Yes. Use the examples and formula section to verify manual calculations quickly.