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#1 2009-12-06 08:46:35

simquasions
Guest

Using Matrices to Solve Simultaneous Equations?

I was told that you could solve the simultaneous equation;

2x + 3y = 4
6x - 5y = 8

By using matrices.

But how exactly is this done? I know how to multiply matrices, but the diagram I saw:

mat10a7.GIF

Doesn't make sense because it's a 2x2 multiplied by a 1x2, and the first column number and the second row number have to be the same. Help!

#2 2009-12-06 12:29:59

bobbym
bumpkin
From: Bumpkinland
Registered: 2009-04-12
Posts: 109,606

Re: Using Matrices to Solve Simultaneous Equations?

Hi simquasions;

That picture makes perfect sense. That is 2 X 2  times 2 X 1 . Rows first and then columns. That is the matrix notation for a 2x2 simultaneous set. And yes, you can solve it totally with matrix operations.


In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.

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