Master Matrix Multiplication: Solving Size Confusion | Homework Help

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around understanding the dimensions of matrices resulting from multiplication, specifically how to determine the size of the product matrix when multiplying a 3xN matrix by an Nx1 matrix.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definition of matrix multiplication and the relationship between the dimensions of the matrices involved. Questions arise regarding the lecturer's method of determining the resulting matrix size, particularly the interpretation of vectors as special cases of matrices.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the dimensions of matrices and the nature of vectors, while others express confusion about the lecturer's explanation. There is an ongoing exploration of the definitions and assumptions related to matrix multiplication.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential misunderstanding regarding the basic definitions of matrix multiplication, and a suggestion to refer to additional resources for visual aids. A recommendation to move the discussion to a different forum is also noted.

DiamondV
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Homework Statement


Well, basically my issue isn't exactly with how to multiply matrices. I know how to do that, my issue is the way my lecturer shows how to find the size of the new matrix, this is all that he shows:
e6e8784ec7.png


I mean how is he getting AX to be a 3x1 matrix?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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In order to do matrix multiplication, the number of columns of the first matrix must fit the number of rows of the second and this goes by definition. Then what specifies the dimensions of the new matrix, is the number of rows of the first and the number of columns of the second.
 
DiamondV said:

Homework Statement


Well, basically my issue isn't exactly with how to multiply matrices. I know how to do that, my issue is the way my lecturer shows how to find the size of the new matrix, this is all that he shows:
e6e8784ec7.png


I mean how is he getting AX to be a 3x1 matrix?
You said above that you know how to multiply matrices. If you calculate AX, with A and X as shown in the image, what do you get?
Possibly your problem is not understanding that vectors are special cases of matrices, with only one row (row vector) or one column (column vector).

The vector/matrix X shown here is a column vector, with three rows and one column; i.e., a 3 X 1 matrix.
DiamondV said:

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
This is the only definition of matrix multiplication I have ever been aware of, so I am not sure what you mean that you know how to multiply matrices.
Here is a website with arrows and pictures.
https://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/matrix-multiplying.html

Recommend: move to precalculus forum.
 
RUber said:
Recommend: move to precalculus forum.
Done...
 
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