MHB Convert infinite solution to vector form

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The discussion focuses on converting a solution with infinite possibilities into vector form. The original solution is expressed with free variables x3 and x4, leading to a particular solution of [4/3, 2, 0, 0]^T. The general solution is represented as a combination of this particular solution and vectors associated with the free variables. Participants suggest using parameters for the free variables to simplify understanding of the solution's vector representation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity in expressing the general solution parametrically.
ibwev
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I know the solution has an infinite number of solutions. It is represented as follows:

x1= 4/3 + (1/3)x3 - (5/3)x4
x2= 2 + (1/3)x3 + (1/3)x4
x3= Free
x4= Free

How do I put the above solution into vector form as illustrated in the original question?
 

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Hi ibwev,

If you set the free variables $x_3, x_4$ equal to zero, you find that $\begin{bmatrix}4/3 & 2 & 0 & 0\end{bmatrix}^T$ is a particular solution. So the general solution can be written$$x = \begin{bmatrix}4/3\\2\\0\\0\end{bmatrix} + x_3\begin{bmatrix}1/3\\1/3\\1\\0\end{bmatrix} + x_4\begin{bmatrix}-5/3\\1/3\\0\\1\end{bmatrix}.$$
 
Thank you so much. I have been trying to figure this out for 2 days. I really appreciate the help.
 

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The $1$'s come from the trivial equations $x_3 = x_3$ and $x_4 = x_4$.
 
Euge said:
The $1$'s come from the trivial equations $x_3 = x_3$ and $x_4 = x_4$.

Most people use a parameter for the free variables, such as $ t = x_4 $ and $ s = x_3 $. It is much easier to see the vector form of the line of solution (or in this case, hyper-line of solution).
 
I want to make it clear that in practice I use different letters in place of the free variables to express the general solution parametrically.
 

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