Difference between revisions of "Determinant of a matrix"
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Revision as of 10:48, 22 May 2014
← Back: Minors and cofactors | Overview: Matrices | Next: Matrix inversion → |
The determinant can be computed for an n-by-n square matrix. In the context of matrices the determinant of a matrix is a special function that assigns a scalar value to the matrix. It is denoted with or in matrix structure with vertical lines:
Considering a matrix as a linear system the determinant provides information about its solvability. If the determinant is nonzero the linear system is clearly solvable. This feature is also important for matrix inversion.
2-by-2 matrices
For a 2-by-2 matrix the determinant can easily computed as follows:
Example: Determinant of a 2-by-2 matrix
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3-by-3 matrices
For 3-by-3 matrices there is a formula to compute the determinant using cramer's rule. The Khan Academy[1] provides a good video [2] where this formula is explained. Please watch the video for further information about the computation of the determinant of a 3-by-3 matrix.
4-by-4 matrices
One possibility to compute the determinant of a 4-by-4 matrix is a formula that uses the minors and cofactors of a matrix. First one row or column has to be choosen. The sum of the four corresponding values of the row or column multiplied by the related cofactors results in the determinant:
Example: determinant of a 4-by-4 matrix
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References
- ↑ https://www.khanacademy.org/ Khan Academy
- ↑ https://www.khanacademy.org/.../finding-the-determinant-of-a-3x3-matrix-method-1 Determinant of a 3-by-3 matrix