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2 x 2 and 3 x 3 Matrices
Note that Matrix is the
Matrices singular form, matrices is
the plural form!
A matrix is an array of
numbers that are 1 3
arranged in rows and
columns. -½ 0
A matrix is “square” if
it has the same
number of rows as -3 8 ¼
columns.
We will consider only 2 0 -¾
2x2 and 3x3 square
matrices 4 180 11
Note the difference in the
matrix and the
Determinants determinant of the matrix!
1 3
Every square matrix
has a determinant. -½ 0
The determinant of a
matrix is a number.
We will consider the -3 8 ¼
determinants only of
2x2 and 3x3 matrices. 2 0 -¾
4 180 11
Determinant of a 2x2 matrix
1 3
1 0 3 1 2 3 2
-½ 0
Determinant of a 3x3 matrix
Imagine crossing out the first row. Now take the double-crossed element. . .
And the first column. And multiply it by the determinant of the
remaining 2x2 matrix
-3 8 ¼
2 0 -¾
3 0 11
3 4 180
4 180 11
Determinant of a 3x3 matrix
Now keep the first row crossed. •Now take the negative of the double-
Cross out the second column. crossed element.
•And multiply it by the determinant of the
remaining 2x2 matrix.
•Add it to the previous result.
-3 8 ¼
2 0 -¾
3 0 11 3 4 180 8 211 3 4 4
4 180 11
Determinant of a 3x3 matrix
Finally, cross out first •Now take the double-crossed element.
row and last column. •Multiply it by the determinant of the
remaining 2x2 matrix.
•Then add it to the previous piece.
-3 8 ¼
2 0 -¾ 4 180 8 211 3 4 4
3 0 11 3