Fixed $n \geq 2$ and consider $A,B \in GL(n,\mathbb{Z}).$ We know that we have the Smith normal form. One can find $U, V \in SL(n,\mathbb{Z})$ such that $A=UDV.$ So as $B$. The Smith normal form is easy to compute by using Mathematica.
We also define Two matrices $A,B$ are congruent if there exists $X \in PSL(n,\mathbb{Z})$ such that $X^TAX=B$. One can see the related question here.
Now we have the following, if two matrices are congruent, then they have the same $D$. But now I want to ask is that I have two 4 by 4 matrices. I have checked they have the same $D$ in the smith normal form. But how do I know how to verify they are congruent. If it is, I have to find such $X.$
To be more specific, suppose $A=\left( \begin{array}{cccc} 2 & -1 & -1 & -1 \\ -1 & 2 & 0 & 0 \\ -1 & 0 & 2 & 0 \\ -1 & 0 & 0 & 2 \\ \end{array} \right), B=\left( \begin{array}{cccc} 4 & -6 & 4 & -2 \\ -6 & 12 & -8 & 4 \\ 4 & -8 & 6 & -3 \\ -2 & 4 & -3 & 2 \\ \end{array} \right).$ I want to ask whether $A,B$ are congruent. I listed what I already tried.
- $A$, $B$ both have the same $D=\left( \begin{array}{cccc} 1 & 0 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 1 & 0 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & 2 & 0 \\ 0 & 0 & 0 & 2 \\ \end{array} \right)$ in the smith normal form. So they define the same integer lattices. But I do not know whether they are congruent.
- Both of them have 4 positive eigenvalues. So Sylvester theorem show that they are real congruent. But may not be integer congruent.
- I try to use Mathematica to find $X$ but it cost a lot.
I suspect that they are congruent but I do have an idea on how to solve them. Any ideas or comments are really appreciated. Btw, $A$ is the Cartanf matrix of $SO(8).$ I think it will not help.