The Trace

The trace of a square matrix is the sum of its diagonal elements. It’s a simple number that provides useful information about the matrix’s properties, such as its eigenvalues and behavior in transformations. For example, in physics and engineering, the trace can relate to quantities like total energy or system stability. In mathematics, it's often used in matrix calculations and proofs. Overall, the trace condenses key information about the matrix into a single, easy-to-understand value.