How do i find the basis of subspace U

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    Basis Subspace
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To find the basis of subspace U, the matrix provided must be correctly reduced using elementary row operations. The user initially obtained an incorrect reduced form, leading to a discrepancy in the basis vectors compared to the textbook solution. The correct reduction should yield a matrix that indicates the basis vectors for the column space of the original matrix. Clarification on which subspace is being referenced is essential, as multiple interpretations exist, including row space, column space, null space, and image. Ensuring the correct identification of the subspace and accurate matrix reduction is crucial for obtaining the right basis.
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Homework Statement


In this case find the basis of subspace U
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8
-6 -8 -10 12

Homework Equations


elementary row operations


The Attempt at a Solution


alright, so i know i have to reduce the matrix and i have done so
1 2 3 4
0 1 2 3
0 0 0 1
now the answer i get is
[1 5 -6]^T [2 6 -8]^T [4 8 12]^T
but the answer in the back of my textbook is
[1 5 -6]^T [2 6 8]^T
what have i done wrong, it seems they have one less column, is it my reduction of the matrix?
 
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You just had an error in reducing your matrix somewhere. Check over your work, because the matrix should have been
1 0 -1 -2
0 1 2 3
0 0 0 0
it was probably a simple algebra mistake.
 
What "subspace U" are you talking about? You give an array of numbers which you refer to as a matrix. I can think of 4 different subspaces that might be meant here:

The row space of the matrix.
The column space of the matrix.
The null space (kernel) of the matrix.
The image of the matrix.

Since you are row-reducing the matrix, you probably mean the column space but it would be a good idea to say so!
 
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