Convert infinite solution to vector form

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around converting a solution with infinite possibilities into vector form. Participants explore how to represent the solution involving free variables in a structured format, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects of the conversion process.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a solution with infinite possibilities, specifying equations for variables x1, x2, x3, and x4, indicating that x3 and x4 are free variables.
  • Another participant suggests setting the free variables to zero to find a particular solution and provides a general solution in vector form, including specific vectors for the free variables.
  • One participant expresses gratitude for the assistance received in understanding the conversion process.
  • Another participant mentions the trivial equations for the free variables, explaining their contribution to the vector form representation.
  • A similar point is reiterated about using parameters for free variables, suggesting that this approach simplifies the visualization of the solution's vector form.
  • One participant clarifies their practice of using different letters for free variables when expressing the general solution parametrically.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method of converting the solution to vector form, but there are variations in how they denote free variables and express the general solution parametrically. No consensus is reached on a single preferred notation or approach.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations in the discussion include the dependence on the definitions of free variables and the specific notation used, which may affect clarity in the representation of the solution.

ibwev
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View attachment 4014

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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