Table of contents
- 0. Review of Algebra4h 16m
- 1. Equations & Inequalities3h 18m
- 2. Graphs of Equations43m
- 3. Functions2h 17m
- 4. Polynomial Functions1h 44m
- 5. Rational Functions1h 23m
- 6. Exponential & Logarithmic Functions2h 28m
- 7. Systems of Equations & Matrices4h 6m
- 8. Conic Sections2h 23m
- 9. Sequences, Series, & Induction1h 19m
- 10. Combinatorics & Probability1h 45m
7. Systems of Equations & Matrices
Introduction to Matrices
Problem 21b
Textbook Question
In Exercises 21–38, solve each system of equations using matrices. Use Gaussian elimination with back-substitution or Gauss-Jordan elimination. ![System of equations for exercise 21 in college algebra, chapter on matrices.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/b8259486424169c7-1678240233109.jpg)
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1
Write the augmented matrix for the system of equations: \( \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 & -1 & | & -2 \\ 2 & -1 & 1 & | & 5 \\ -1 & 2 & 2 & | & 1 \end{bmatrix} \).
Use Gaussian elimination to create zeros below the first pivot (1 in the first row, first column) by replacing row 2 with \( \text{Row 2} - 2 \times \text{Row 1} \) and row 3 with \( \text{Row 3} + \text{Row 1} \).
Simplify the matrix to get: \( \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 & -1 & | & -2 \\ 0 & -3 & 3 & | & 9 \\ 0 & 3 & 1 & | & -1 \end{bmatrix} \).
Use Gaussian elimination to create a zero below the second pivot (the -3 in the second row, second column) by replacing row 3 with \( \text{Row 3} + \text{Row 2} \).
Simplify the matrix to get: \( \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 & -1 & | & -2 \\ 0 & -3 & 3 & | & 9 \\ 0 & 0 & 4 & | & 8 \end{bmatrix} \).
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