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
Determinants and Cramer's Rule
Problem 47a
Textbook Question
In Exercises 45–48, explain why the system of equations cannot be solved using Cramer's Rule. Then use Gaussian elimination to solve the system.
4x - 3y - 2z = 12
8x - 6y - 4z = 22![Two equations from a system for Exercise 47 in college algebra on determinants and Cramer's Rule.](https://lightcat-files.s3.amazonaws.com/problem_images/445f5ae1895d7864-1678236844942.jpg)
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1
Identify that the system of equations is composed of two equations with three variables, which means it cannot be solved using Cramer's Rule as it requires a square matrix (same number of equations as variables).
Write the augmented matrix for the system of equations: \[ \begin{bmatrix} 4 & -3 & -2 & | & 12 \\ 8 & -6 & -4 & | & 22 \end{bmatrix} \].
Perform row operations to simplify the matrix. Start by dividing the first row by 4 to make the leading coefficient 1: \[ \begin{bmatrix} 1 & -\frac{3}{4} & -\frac{1}{2} & | & 3 \\ 8 & -6 & -4 & | & 22 \end{bmatrix} \].
Subtract 8 times the first row from the second row to eliminate the x-term in the second row: \[ \begin{bmatrix} 1 & -\frac{3}{4} & -\frac{1}{2} & | & 3 \\ 0 & 0 & 0 & | & -2 \end{bmatrix} \].
Interpret the resulting matrix: The second row indicates a contradiction (0 = -2), which means the system is inconsistent and has no solution.
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