Help with math Matrices problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the reduced row echelon form of a given matrix. The problem involves understanding matrix transformations and the specific requirements for achieving reduced row echelon form.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the original poster's attempts at reducing the matrix and question whether further reductions are necessary, particularly regarding the last row. There is also a focus on clarifying the distinction between row echelon form and reduced row echelon form.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the need to reduce all elements in the last row, while others have pointed out assumptions made about the constants in the matrix. The conversation reflects a mix of interpretations and attempts to clarify the requirements for the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the original poster may have misunderstood the role of the last row in the matrix, which led to confusion in their attempts. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly interpreting the structure of the matrix in relation to the problem's requirements.

ThomasHW
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Homework Statement


Find the reduced row echelon form of the following matrix:

[tex] \begin{array}{c}\ \\ \\ \end{array}\;\begin{vmatrix}\;-4 & 0 & 4\;\\\;2 & -4 & 1\\\;-4 & 4 & -2\end{vmatrix}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


[tex] \begin{array}{c}\ \\ \\ \end{array}\;\begin{vmatrix}\;1 & 0 & 1\;\\\;0 & 1 & \frac{1}{4}\\\;0 & 0 & 1\end{vmatrix}[/tex]

I've tried it a few times and keep getting that answer. I've inputted that answer and it's wrong. Am I supposed to keep reducing the third row (even though those are constants?)
 
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Look at your last row. It says 0x+0y=1 (Assuming this is an augmented matrix)
 
I figured it out. I was supposed to make the 1 and 1/4 in the third row zero's as well.
 
Yes, what you showed was "row echelon" form. "Reduced row echelon reduces above the diagonal also. Actually, until you get down to a row all 0s you will have just the identity matrix.
 
I had assumed not to touch the last row because that is usually the row of constants. In this case it wasn't - I had just assumed it was. :cool:
 

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