Drag image here or click to upload

Or press Ctrl + V to paste
Resources
Login
  • Grasping Matrix Concepts

  • Deciphering Determinants

  • Exploring the \(2\times 2\) Matrix Determinant

  • \(3\times 3\) Matrix Determinant Examination

  • Diagonal Matrix Determinant Calculation

  • Inversion Matrix Determinant Analysis

  • Matrix Determinant - Essential Insights

Home > Resources > Matrix Determinant Definition & Formulas

Matrix Determinant Definition & Formulas

Ever pondered the method by which one might verify the solvability of a set of simultaneous equations? An approach involves organizing these equations into a matrix and evaluating its determinant. By doing so, you can ascertain the presence of a solution for the equation set.

Continue reading to uncover more details about this technique.

Grasping Matrix Concepts

A matrix represents a structured array for data organization and manipulation, featuring elements in specified rows and columns.

Grasping the concept and utility of a determinant necessitates a preliminary understanding of matrices.

Matrix as an organizational tool - for illustration, a matrix format allows representation of simultaneous equations, assigning columns to variables and rows to the equations themselves, with solutions embodying a column vector. This matrix structure simplifies the transformation and resolution processes for data sets, particularly with more than two equations at hand.

But, what's the mechanism for matrix resolution? Here, determinants play a critical role - they are the key to unlocking matrix resolutions.

Within general matrix notation, \(m\) symbolizes the count of columns and \(n\) the count of rows. Matrix elements are thus delineated as:\[A_{m,n} = \begin{bmatrix}a_{1,1} & a_{1,2} & \cdots & a_{1,n} \\a_{2,1} & a_{2,2} & \cdots & a_{2,n} \\\vdots & \vdots & \ddots & \vdots \\a_{m,1} & a_{m,2} & \cdots & a_{m,n} \end{bmatrix}\]

Delve into our detailed guide on Fundamental Matrices for additional insights and exemplifications.

Illustrative \(2\times 2\) matrix\[A_{2,2}=\begin{bmatrix}3&7\\12&-3\end{bmatrix}\]

Illustrative \(2\times 3\) matrix\[A_{2,3}=\begin{bmatrix}2&-4&19\\11&23&5\end{bmatrix}\]

Illustrative \(4\times 3\) matrix\[A_{4,3}=\begin{bmatrix}2&8&4\\-2&-5&-3\\13&9&7\\-7&3&-2\end{bmatrix}\]

Matrices serve as immensely efficient structures for compiling and accessing substantial data volumes and find their application across mathematics, physics, and engineering at advanced study levels.

Deciphering Determinants

Having introduced matrix basics, the next query arises - what exactly constitutes a determinant, and its relevance?

A determinant represents a calculable scalar value for any square matrix, instrumental for deducing the matrix's inverse.

A square matrix is characterized by matching row and column numbers, i.e., \(m=n.\)

Observe below, square matrices exhibit equal rows and columns, presenting a square configuration.

Square \(2\times 2\) matrix sample \[A_{2,2}=\begin{bmatrix}3&7\\12&-3\end{bmatrix}\]

Square \(3\times 3\) matrix sample \[A_{3,3}=\begin{bmatrix}1&2&3\\4&5&6\\7&8&9\end{bmatrix}\]

A reversible matrix embodies a matrix for which an alternative matrix can be identified, yielding the identity matrix \((I)\) upon their multiplication.

The principal matrix is indicated by \(A\) while its inverse is represented by \(A^{-1}\), establishing the identity \[AA^{-1}=I.\] Consider inverse matrices akin to the matrix domain reciprocals.

The determinant also serves as an indicator if a matrix has the capability for inversion. Let \(\det{A}\) symbolize the determinant of matrix A.

  • Should the determinant of matrix A be \(\det{A} = 0\), the matrix is identified as singular lacking an inverse, hence unsolvable.
  • Provided the determinant of matrix A is \(\det{A} \neq 0\), the matrix is construed as non-singular possessing an inverse, hence solvable.

Explore our Inverting Matrices article for thorough elucidation and case studies.

Exploring the \(2\times 2\) Matrix Determinant

With the determinant's role and application established, our focus turns to its operational foundation.

Embarking with the elementary \(2\times 2\) matrix determinant, the computation encapsulates cross-multiplication followed by the subtraction of these products.

Examining the subsequent matrix,\[A_{2,2} = \begin{bmatrix}a_{1,1} & a_{1,2} \\a_{2,1} & a_{2,2}\end{bmatrix}\]we revert to differentiated elements for clarity in methodology. Consequently,\[A_{2,2} = \begin{bmatrix}a&b\\c&d\end{bmatrix}\]Cross-multiplicating - top left with bottom right, then top right with bottom left - and subtracting the latter from the former, we have,\[\det{A}=ad-cb\]In our initial notation, this equates to,\[\det{A}=a_{1,1}a_{2,2}-a_{1,2}a_{2,1}\]Let's proceed to a practical illustration.

Determine the determinant for matrix \(A\) beneath, and ascertain its revertibility.\[A=\begin{bmatrix}4&9\\-2&8\end{bmatrix}\]

Resolution

Initial Step. Ascertain the determinant

\[\begin{align} \det{A}&=ad-cb\\&=(4\cdot 8)-(9\cdot -2)\\&=32-(-18)\\&=50\end{align}\]

Following Step. Determine matrix \(A\) revertibility

\(\det{A} \neq 0\) inferring the matrix \(A\) as non-singular hence revertible.

We advance to elucidate upon determining a \(3\times 3\) matrix determinant.

\(3\times 3\) Matrix Determinant Examination

Transitioning from the \(2\times 2\) matrix determinant's exploration, we encounter \(3\times 3\) matrix scenarios within Advanced Maths. Let's navigate through determinant calculations for these instances.

The computation complexity escalates beyond a \(2\times 2\) determinant, however, the foundational principles persist. Observing the ensuing matrix,\[A_{3,3}=\begin{bmatrix}a&b&c\\d&e&f\\g&h&i\end{bmatrix}\]the determinant entails decomposition into \(2\times 2\) matrix subsets.

Executing this involves traversing the top row, multiplying each element against the determinant of its designated minor.

A \(3\times 3\) matrix's minor constitutes the residue after axing the row and column emanating from the chosen element.

Initiating with element \(a\), its minor equates to the residual \(2\times 2\) matrix post-omission of allied horizontal and vertical values.\[\begin{bmatrix}a&-&-\\|&e&f\\|&h&i\end{bmatrix}\]The comprehensive determinant for our \(3\times 3\) matrix derives from evaluating all top row minors, resulting in:\[\begin{align}\det{A}&=a\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}e&f\\h&i\end{bmatrix}}-b\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}d&f\\g&i\end{bmatrix}}+c\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}d&e\\g&h\end{bmatrix}} \\ & =a(ei-fh)-b(di-fg)+c(dh-eg)\end{align} \]

The determinant formula adheres to the alternating sign convention, symbolized as \(+,-,+\).

Adhering to the sign convention delineation, the cofactors for the matrix's first row are evident.

While extending beyond the expected knowledge scope, every matrix element associates with specific cofactors.

Hence, determinant calculation can also proceed via the second or third rows as starting points, provided appropriate cofactors application.

Nevertheless, immediate focus remains on the top row and the \(+,-,+\) sequence.

Progressing to demonstrate its application:

Ascertain the determinant for the following matrix.\[A_{3,3}=\begin{bmatrix}4&8&12\\7&19&2\\0&5&2\end{bmatrix}\]

Resolution

Applying our determinant formula.\[\begin{align}\det{A}&=a(ei-fh)-b(di-fg)+c(dh-eg)\\&=4[(19\cdot 2)-(2\cdot 5)]-8[(7\cdot 2)-(2\cdot 0)]+12[(7\cdot 5)-(19\cdot 0)]\\&=4[(38)-(10)]-8[(14)-(0)]+12[(35)-(0)]\\&=4(28)-8(14)+12(35)\\&=112-112+420\\&=420 \end{align}\]

A subsequent discussion will elaborate on determining a diagonal matrix's determinant following its definition.

Diagonal Matrix Determinant Calculation

Determining a diagonal matrix's determinant necessitates an initial comprehension of its essence.

A diagonal matrix typifies a matrix where every off-diagonal component equals 0, not precluding diagonal elements from assuming a null value, yet mandating all non-diagonal elements to be null.

It assumes the configuration of,

\[A=\begin{bmatrix}a_{1,1} & 0 &0& \cdots & 0 \\0 & a_{2,2} & 0&\cdots & 0 \\0&0&a_{3,3}&\cdots &0\\\vdots & \vdots &\vdots & \ddots & \vdots \\0 & 0 &0& \cdots & a_{m,n} \end{bmatrix}\]

Multiplying the diagonal elements yields a diagonal matrix's determinant.

The diagonal matrix determinant culminates from the diagonal elements' multiplication, expressed as,

\[\det{A}=a_{1,1}\cdot a_{2,2}\cdot a_{3,3} \cdot \quad \cdots \quad \cdot a_{m,n}\]

Exclusively non-zero diagonal elements facilitate a non-singular matrix; any incorporation of a \(0\) yields a singular, non-reversible matrix.

Illustrated through an example:

Evaluate \(\det{A}\) for,\[A_{5,5}=\begin{bmatrix}13&0&0&0&0\\0&-6&0&0&0\\0&0&7&0&0\\0&0&0&-1&0\\0&0&0&0&3\end{bmatrix}\]

Resolution

Recognizing the diagonal matrix determinant arises from diagonal element multiplication. \[\begin{align} \det{A}&=a_{1,1}\cdot a_{2,2}\cdot a_{3,3}\cdot a_{4,4}\cdot a_{5,5}\\&=(13)\cdot (-6)\cdot (7)\cdot (-1)\cdot (3)\\&=1638.\end{align}\]

Is determining an inverse matrix's determinant feasible? Affirmatively!

Inversion Matrix Determinant Analysis

The concluding matrix determinant inquiry regards the inversion matrix.

The origination matrix's had a non-null determinant for the inversion matrix's existence, previously analogizing the inversion matrix to the primary matrix's reciprocal, relevant once more herein.

The inversion matrix's determinant parallels the original matrix's determinant inverse or reciprocal. Mathematically, the inversion matrix determinant adopts the formula,\[\det{A^{-1}}=\frac{1}{\det{A}}.\]

Considering the ensuing example.

Examine matrix \(A\) beneath for revertibility. Upon confirming \(A\)'s invertibility, deduce its inverse matrix's determinant.

\[A=\begin{bmatrix}6&2\\12&9\end{bmatrix}\]

Resolution

Primary Step. Ascertain \(A\)'s determinant

\[\begin{align} \det{A}&=ad-cb\\&=(6\cdot 9)-(12\cdot 2)\\&=54-24\\&=30\end{align}\]

Subsequent Step. Affirm \(A\)'s revertibility

\(\det{A} \neq 0\), classifying the matrix \(A\) as non-singular thus revertible.

Final Step. Compute the inverse matrix's determinant

\[\begin{align}\det{A^{-1}}&=\frac{1}{\det{A}}\\&=\frac{1}{30}. \end{align}\]

Matrix Determinant - Essential Insights

  • The determinant for a \(2\times 2\) matrix manifests as,\[\det{A}=ad-bc\]
  • A \(3\times 3\) matrix's determinant capitalizes on top row elements and their minor's determinants for its calculation, formulated as,\[\begin{align}\det{A}&=a\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}e&f\\h&i\end{bmatrix}}-b\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}d&f\\g&i\end{bmatrix}}+c\cdot \det{\begin{bmatrix}d&e\\g&h\end{bmatrix}} \\ & =a(ei-fh)-b(di-fg)+c(dh-eg)\end{align} \]
  • The determinant for a diagonal matrix results from the diagonal components' multiplication, which alone may assume non-null values, demonstrated in, \[\det{A}=a_{1,1}\cdot a_{2,2}\cdot a_{3,3} \cdot \quad \cdots \quad \cdot a_{m,n}\]
  • An inverse matrix's determinant mirrors the original matrix determinant's reciprocal, rendered as, \[\det{A^{-1}}=\frac{1}{\det{A}}\]

Related Posts

Rates of Change: Key Definitions, Formula & Examples

Explore how the rate of change, a critical mathematical concept used in formulas for velocity and acceleration, underpins practical and political phenomena, with real-world examples.

Average Rate of Change: Definitions & Calculation Examples

Explore the critical aspects of the average rate of change, its equations, and real-world applications, offering deep insights into mathematical and practical calculations.

Algebraic Fractions: A Comprehensive Guide

Dive into our comprehensive guide on Algebraic Fractions to uncover the essentials of simplifying, operating, and applying these pivotal mathematical expressions in real-world scenarios and advanced mathematics.

Linear Interpolation: Definition, Formula, & Example

Discover the concept of linear interpolation with Mathful. Learn the definition, explore the formula, and delve into real-life examples that illustrate the application of linear interpolation in mathematical analysis. Enhance your understanding of this valuable technique through this comprehensive resource from Mathful.