What is the correct way to convert a matrix to reduced row echelon form?

AI Thread Summary
A reduced row echelon matrix requires that each leading one is the only non-zero entry in its column. The initial conversion provided was incorrect due to arithmetic errors, particularly in the last row. The corrected form presented by another user shows proper leading ones and zeros in the appropriate positions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accurate calculations in achieving the correct reduced row echelon form. Overall, clarity in the steps taken to convert matrices is crucial for accurate results.
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What exactly is a reduced row echelon matrix.

I had to convert this to one:
1 2 1 1 1 1
-3 -6 -2 0 -1 -3
2 4 2 1 3 -3

And got:
1 2 1 1 1 1
0 0 1 3 2 0
0 0 0 1 -1 5

Is this right and, if not, why?

Thanks for the help.
 
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Assuming your arithmetic is correct, that is row echelon form. Reduced row echelon form requires that each column with a leading one have nothing else but zeros in it.
 
You have the signs on the last row wrong. You are subtracting 2 times the first row from the third and should have 1- 2(1)= -1, 3- 2(1)= 1, and -3-2(1)= -5.
 
Thanks for the help.

I got
1 2 0 0 3 -11
0 0 1 0 5 -15
0 0 0 1 -1 5

I think this is right.

I did it the other way round HallsofIvy.
 

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