Are the columns linear independent?

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SUMMARY

The columns of matrix A, given in row reduced echelon form as 1 2 0 0, 0 0 1 0, 0 0 0 1, are linearly dependent. This conclusion arises from the fact that the first two columns are multiples of each other, indicating that there exists a non-trivial solution to the equation A x = 0. The hint provided in the homework emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of row reduction on linear independence, reinforcing that the only solution to the equation must be the trivial solution for the columns to be independent.

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  • Understanding of linear independence and dependence
  • Familiarity with row reduced echelon form (RREF)
  • Knowledge of solving linear equations
  • Basic concepts of vector spaces
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Homework Statement



Were the columns of A linearly independent?
The matrix A is given in row reduced echeleon form
1 2 0 0
0 0 1 0
0 0 0 1


Homework Equations


Hint: Consider the solution set to A x = 0


The Attempt at a Solution


I think that the colums were linearly dependent since the first two columns in their row reduced forms are multiple of each other. Is that correct? If yes, and my explanation seems logical, then why is the hint given?
 
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Perhaps they want you to see why "the first two columns in their row reduced forms are multiple of each other" implies that the columns of A are linearly dependent. In other words, the definition of linear independence says the vectors v1, v2, v3, and v4 are independent if the only solution of c1 v1+c2 v2+c3 v3+c4 v4=0 is c1=c2=c3=c4=0. How does what you said about the row-reduced matrix lead to the conclusion that the original columns of A are linearly dependent according to the definition above?
 

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