Linear Algebra - Homework help

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the properties of determinants and matrix operations involving n × n matrices A and B. It is established that statement (i) is false; having equal determinants does not imply that the determinant of their difference is zero. Statement (ii) is also false; the product of two symmetric matrices is not guaranteed to be symmetric. Statement (iii) is true; the sum of a skew-symmetric matrix and its transpose results in another skew-symmetric matrix. The incorrect equation presented, det(A+B) = det(A) + det(B), is clarified as a misconception.

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Aseeb
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Homework Statement


Let A and B be n × n matrices. Which of the following statements are always true?

(i) If det(A) = det(B) then det(A − B) = 0.
(ii) If A and B are symmetric, then the matrix AB is also symmetric.
(iii) If A and B are skew-symmetric, then the matrix AT + B is also skew-symmetric.

Some explanation for i), ii), and iii) is kindly requested.
(Due to a load full of mid terms, I havn't been able to grasp the new concepts.)


Homework Equations


det(A+B) = det(A) + det(b)


The Attempt at a Solution



Well, I've carried out some examples on paper and part ii) seems to not hold true but I'm not sure if my examples would work for all applicable matrices. Part i), however, I am considering to be wrong since if we were to plug in numbers, it would make sense.
e.g,
det(A) = 5, det(B) = 5. Then det(5-5) = 0
Part iii) is tricky for me.
 
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Aseeb said:

Homework Equations


det(A+B) = det(A) + det(b)
Where on Earth did you see/learn this? This is completely wrong!
 
Last edited:

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