Nonhomogeneous system of linear equations

In summary, To solve the given system of equations, you can set up an augmented matrix and apply row operations. Alternatively, you can factorize one of the equations and consider the possible values of a for which the resulting equation has zero, one, or many solutions.
  • #1
salistoun
14
0
Hi all,

How do u go about doing this question?

x - 2y +z =4
y- z =3
(a^2 - a - 2)z = a+1

Determine values of a for which the system has no solution, one solution and many solutions

Stephen
 
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  • #2
salistoun said:
Hi all,

How do u go about doing this question?

x - 2y +z =4
y- z =3
(a^2 - a - 2)z = a+1

Determine values of a for which the system has no solution, one solution and many solutions

Stephen

Hey Stephen and welcome to the forums.

You should for this problem set up an augmented system and apply row-operations.

You could use MATLAB though and invert the matrix in terms an unknown number a and then check that you don't get an inconsistent system since a is in the RHS vector.

Show us what augmented system have and row operations to get your reduced system
 
  • #3
What Chiro said is true, but it's probably quicker to start by factorizing ## (a^2 - a - 2)z = a+1## into ## (a+1)(a-2)z = a+1 ##, and thinking about when that equation has zero, one, or many solutions.
 

1. What is a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations?

A nonhomogeneous system of linear equations is a set of equations in which the constant term is not equal to zero. This means that the equations do not have a common solution and cannot be solved by setting all variables equal to zero.

2. How is a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations different from a homogeneous system?

In a homogeneous system, all of the constant terms are equal to zero. This means that the equations have a common solution and can be solved by setting all variables equal to zero. In a nonhomogeneous system, at least one of the constant terms is not equal to zero, making it more complex to solve.

3. What is the best method for solving a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations?

The best method for solving a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations is through the use of Gaussian elimination or matrix operations. These methods involve transforming the equations into a simpler form and solving for the variables.

4. Can a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations have a unique solution?

Yes, a nonhomogeneous system of linear equations can have a unique solution if the equations are consistent (have a common solution) and the number of equations is equal to the number of variables. In this case, the solution can be found using Gaussian elimination or matrix operations.

5. What are some real-life applications of nonhomogeneous systems of linear equations?

Nonhomogeneous systems of linear equations are used in many areas of science and engineering, such as predicting population growth, analyzing chemical reactions, and modeling financial markets. They can also be used to solve problems in physics, biology, and other fields where variables are related to one another.

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