Factoring Determinant of 3x3 Matrix - Step by Step Solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around factoring the determinant of a 3x3 matrix involving polynomial expressions in terms of a variable x. The original poster presents a matrix and claims a specific factored form of the determinant.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Problem interpretation, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest using co-factor expansion and consider the implications of having a column of ones in the matrix. There is a question about the outcome of the suggested expansions.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the problem and explore different methods for calculating the determinant. Some participants express confusion, while others provide insights into potential approaches without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

One participant mentions a language barrier affecting their understanding of the problem, indicating potential communication challenges in the discussion.

takercena
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Homework Statement


Code:
| x       x^2   1  |
| x^2      x    1  |
| x^3    x^3   1  |

The answer is = x^2(1-x)^2(1+2x)

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution


By factoring the matrix step by step.

Thanks :)
 
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What's the problem here? Just use co-factor expansion along any row or column.
 
Take advantage of the fact that you have a column of ones in the third column...

[tex]\begin{vmatrix}<br /> x & x^2 & 1 \\<br /> x^2 & x & 1 \\<br /> x^3 & x^3 & 1<br /> \end{vmatrix}<br /> = <br /> \begin{vmatrix}<br /> x^2 & x \\<br /> x^3 & x^3 <br /> \end{vmatrix} -<br /> \begin{vmatrix}<br /> x & x^2 \\<br /> x^3 & x^3 <br /> \end{vmatrix} +<br /> \begin{vmatrix}<br /> x & x^2 \\<br /> x^2 & x <br /> \end{vmatrix}[/tex]

So what does this end up being?
 
Sorry for the question. I was confused by the question a moment ago because of language barrier.
 

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