System of equations / matrices

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a system of equations involving variables h and k, specifically examining conditions under which the system has no solutions, a unique solution, or infinitely many solutions. The equations presented are hx + 6y = 2 and x(h + 1)y = 2k, which leads to considerations of matrix representation and determinants.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the determinant and its implications for the system's solutions. There are questions about the correctness of determinant values and the application of Gaussian elimination. Some participants express uncertainty about the relationship between h, k, and the types of solutions available.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring various interpretations of the determinant and its role in determining the nature of the solutions. There is a focus on case-by-case analysis regarding the values of h and k, and how they affect the system's solvability. Guidance has been provided regarding the implications of the determinant being zero or non-zero.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through the complexities of matrix representation and the implications of specific values for h and k. There is an acknowledgment of potential confusion regarding the setup of the equations and the need for clarity in interpreting the results of the matrix operations.

  • #31
Mark44 said:
OK. Can you summarize, in complete sentences, what you have found so far? Each sentence should show the specific values of h and k and should say whether there are a) no solutions, b) a unique solution, c) an infinite number of solutions.

Note that we still have some work to do, but I'm checking to see if you understand where we've gotten to at this point.

For h = 2, k = 1/2 and h = -3, k = -1/3, there are infinitely many solutions.

For h = 2, k ≠ 1/2 and h = -3 and k ≠ -1/3, there are no solutions.


I don't think we've agreed on something for b)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
What you have looks good.
Here's your augmented matrix, nicely formatted in LaTeX:
$$\begin{bmatrix} h & 6 & | & 2 \\ 0 & h^2 + h - 6 & | & 2hk - 2\end{bmatrix} $$

In your work above, you have said what the situation is if h = 2 or if h = -3. Now suppose that h ≠ 2, and h ≠ -3. What can you conclude about the augmented matrix, and from it, the system of equations?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K