Are there any pivot columns in this matrix?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying pivot columns in a given matrix and understanding the implications of pivot columns on the consistency of a system of equations. The matrix in question is a 3 x 5 coefficient matrix.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to define pivot columns and questions whether the provided matrix contains them. They also inquire about the relationship between the number of pivot columns and the consistency of the system. Other participants clarify the definitions of pivot columns and pivot positions, and question the original poster's understanding of these concepts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing clarifications on definitions and questioning the original poster's assumptions. There is no explicit consensus yet, as participants are exploring different aspects of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a discrepancy in the last column of the matrix and seeks guidance on LaTeX formatting for augmented matrices. There is also a reference to a book's claim regarding the consistency of the system, which is being debated.

flyingpig
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Homework Statement




Just need help identifying pivots columns

\begin{bmatrix}<br /> 1 &amp; 1 &amp; 1 &amp;1 &amp;1\\ <br /> 0&amp; 0&amp; 0&amp; 0&amp;0\\ <br /> 0&amp; 0&amp; 0&amp; 0&amp;9<br /> \end{bmatrix}

From my understanding, any column with 1s and everything below it 0s are all pivot columns right?

Is the above all pivot columns? Also for a 3 x 5 coefficient matrix that has three pivot columns, is the system consistent?

The book says it is not, but why? The one above is a counterargument given by me. Does anyone know the LaTeX code to make an augmented matrix? Like put a bar before the constants
 
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The last column number should be a 0 not 9
 
remember, the definition of a pivot column is essentially that the column contains a pivot position in reduced echelon form. a pivot is the first nonzero term in the row (which needs to be a 1 for it to be reduced echelon form). how many of your rows in that matrix have a pivot in them?
 
Last edited:
There can only be one pivot column in every row?
 
There can only be one pivot position in each row. Notice that there is a subtle difference between a pivot column and a pivot itself.
 

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