Are AB and BA both defined if they are square matrices?

In summary, a square matrix is a type of matrix in linear algebra with an equal number of rows and columns. Its main difference from a non-square matrix is that it can have a determinant and be inverted. The determinant of a square matrix is a scalar value used for solving equations and finding the inverse. The inverse can be found by calculating the determinant and using a formula. Square matrices have applications in various fields, including computer graphics, economics, engineering, and physics, as well as in machine learning and data analysis.
  • #1
georgeh
68
0
So i have the following question
a) Show that if AB and BA are both defined, then AB and BA are square matrices..
this is what i tried doing..
If AB and BA are both tdefined then
A=[n x p ] matrix
B=[p x l ] matrix
AB=[nxl] matrix
IF and only IF l=n, then BA will be defined.
then BA=[p x p] matrix
and
AB=[l x l] matrix
then by definition both AB and BA will be square matrices..
is this correct? i think it is wrong.
 
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  • #2
That's correct.
 

What is a square matrix?

A square matrix is a type of matrix in linear algebra that has the same number of rows and columns. It is represented by a capital letter and can be used to solve systems of equations and perform other mathematical operations.

What is the difference between a square matrix and a non-square matrix?

The main difference between a square matrix and a non-square matrix is that a square matrix has the same number of rows and columns, while a non-square matrix has a different number of rows and columns. This means that a square matrix can have a determinant and be inverted, while a non-square matrix cannot.

What is the determinant of a square matrix?

The determinant of a square matrix is a scalar value that can be calculated from the elements of the matrix. It is used to determine the solvability of a system of equations and to calculate the inverse of a matrix. It can also provide information about the scaling factor of a linear transformation.

How do you find the inverse of a square matrix?

The inverse of a square matrix can be found by first calculating the determinant of the matrix. If the determinant is non-zero, then the matrix is invertible and the inverse can be found by using a formula involving the determinant and the transpose of the matrix. If the determinant is zero, then the matrix is not invertible.

What are some applications of square matrices in real life?

Square matrices have various applications in real life, including in computer graphics, economics, engineering, and physics. They are used to solve systems of equations, perform transformations, and analyze data in these fields. They are also used in machine learning and data analysis to process and manipulate large datasets.

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