On the relation between Moore's and Penrose's conditions (Q1608196)

Denote an \(m \times n\) finite matrix over the field of complex numbers by \(A\) and its conjugate transpose by \(A^*\). \textit{E. H. Moore} [Bull. Am. Math. Soc. 26, 394-395 (1920)] defined the reciprocal \(\Lambda\) of the matrix \(A\) by three conditions. Later, \textit{R. Penrose} [Proc. Cambr. Philos. Soc. 51, 406-413 (1955; Zbl 0065.24603)] defined the same inversion called the general inverse \(A^{\dagger}\) of a matrix \(A\) as the solution of four equations. The so-called weak Moore-Penrose inverses (or weak generalized inverses) satisfy only some above mentioned conditions and also play an important role in applications as the Moore-Penrose inverses (M-P inverses) themselves. In this paper the definitions of the M-P inverses are given showing an important relation between Moore's and Penrose's conditions. Emphasis is given to Moore's definition which has been overlooked mainly due to Moore's unique notation. In some cases combined applications of Moore's and Penrose's conditions can simplify approaches to a great extent. Two examples are given showing the combined application of Moore's and Penrose's conditions. The second example gives the correct proof of \textit{A. Ben-Israel}'s lemma [Math. Proc. Cambr. Philos. Soc. 100, 407-425 (1986; Zbl 0616.15003)] which interpretes Moore's results in a more readable manner.