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Matrix

from class:

Algebra and Trigonometry

Definition

A matrix is a rectangular array of numbers arranged in rows and columns. Matrices are used to represent and solve systems of linear equations.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Matrices can be added or subtracted if they have the same dimensions.
  2. The product of two matrices is only defined if the number of columns in the first matrix equals the number of rows in the second matrix.
  3. The identity matrix is a square matrix with ones on the diagonal and zeros elsewhere.
  4. The inverse of a matrix exists only if the matrix is square and its determinant is non-zero.
  5. Gaussian elimination involves using row operations to transform a matrix into its reduced row echelon form to solve systems of linear equations.

Review Questions

  • What are the conditions for adding two matrices?
  • How do you determine if a matrix has an inverse?
  • What is the purpose of Gaussian elimination?
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