311.3.1.1 - Determinants And Cofactor Expansion

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the computation of determinants using cofactor expansion, specifically comparing methods of expansion across different rows and columns of a given matrix. The context includes both theoretical understanding and practical application of linear algebra concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a matrix and attempts to compute the determinant using cofactor expansion across the first row, arriving at a value of 1.
  • The same participant also computes the determinant using cofactor expansion down the second column, noting a transformation of the original matrix and again arriving at a value of 1.
  • Another participant suggests that there are various methods to compute determinants and anticipates contributions from others with more expertise in linear algebra.
  • A third participant comments on the appropriateness of the thread title, indicating it lacks descriptive clarity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion does not present a consensus on the methods used, as participants are sharing different approaches and insights without resolving any disagreements.

Contextual Notes

Some participants may have differing levels of familiarity with linear algebra concepts, which could affect their interpretations and methods of computation. The discussion includes various approaches to the same problem without establishing a definitive method as superior.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and individuals interested in linear algebra, particularly those learning about determinants and cofactor expansion methods.

karush
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311 Determinants And Cofactor Expansion (3.1.1)

a. Compare the determinants using a cofactor expansion across the first row.

b. compute the determinant by a cofactor expansion down the second column.

$$\left|
\begin{array}{rrr}
3&0& 4\\
2&3& 2\\
0&5&-1\\
\end{array}
\right|$$

ok I accually start this class tomorro but thot I would try some basic stuff
already stuck...
 
Last edited:
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Re: 311.3.1.1

karush said:
a. Compare the determinants using a cofactor expansion across the first row.

b. compute the determinant by a cofactor expansion down the second column.

$$\left|
\begin{array}{rrr}
3&0& 4\\
2&3& 2\\
0&5&-1\\
\end{array}
\right|$$

ok I accually start this class tomorro but thot I would try some basic stuff
already stuck...

(a)

$3\begin{vmatrix}
3 & 2\\
5 & -1
\end{vmatrix} - 0\begin{vmatrix}
2 &2 \\
0 & -1
\end{vmatrix}+4\begin{vmatrix}
2 & 3\\
0& 5
\end{vmatrix} =3(-3-10)-0(-2-0)+4(10-0)=1$

(b)

note $\begin{vmatrix}
3 & 0 & 4\\
2 & 3 & 2\\
0 & 5& -1
\end{vmatrix}=\begin{vmatrix}
0 & 4 & 3\\
3 & 2 & 2\\
5 & -1 & 0
\end{vmatrix}$

the second determinant is formed by moving the 1st column in the original matrix to the 3rd column. Now use the new 1st column and its cofactors ...

$0\begin{vmatrix}
2 & 2\\
-1 & 0
\end{vmatrix}-3\begin{vmatrix}
4 & 3\\
-1 & 0
\end{vmatrix}+5\begin{vmatrix}
4 &3 \\
2 & 2
\end{vmatrix}=0[0-(-2)]-3[0-(-3)]+5(8-6)=1$

This is a method I learned in undergrad physics that "stuck". There are other methods to do these ... I'm sure someone else well-versed in linear algebra will contribute.
 
Please give threads titles that briefly describe the thread topic. A thread title that is simply a series of digits and periods is not what we consider a good thread title. :)
 
https://dl.orangedox.com/GXEVNm73NxaGC9F7Cy

SSCwt.png
 

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