Math-305, Numerical Methods & Matrices
Section 2.2(d) — Homogeneous Systems

Dr. Kevin G. TeBeest

 
  1. Given the system:
    x1 + 2x2 + 3x3 = 0,

    7x1 + 9x2 + 8x3 = 0 ,

    3x1 + x2 – 4x3 = 0.

    1. Is the system homogeneous or nonhomogeneous?
    2. Show that   x = [0, 0, 0]T   is a solution.
    3. Show that   x = [11, –13, 5]T   is a solution.
    4. Show that   x = [–22, 26, –10]T   is a solution.

  2. Based on the findings in Problem 1, what is det(A)?  (Answer this without actually calculating det(A).)

  3. Based on Problem 2, how many solutions does the system in Problem 1 actually have?

  4. Based on Problem 2, is matrix A singular or nonsingular?

  5. Use Gauss elimination/LU factorization to calculate det(A) in Problem 1.

  6. What is the difference between 0 and 0 ?

  7. Suppose we have a system Ax = 0.
    1. What can be said if det(A) = 0?
    2. What can be said if det(A) ≠ 0?


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