Linear Algebra and Its Applications (5th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 032198238X
ISBN 13: 978-0-32198-238-4

Chapter 1 - Linear Equations in Linear Algebra - 1.5 Exercises - Page 49: 32

Answer

a.$Ax=0$ has a nontrivial solution. b. $Ax=b$ has at least one solution for every possible b.

Work Step by Step

a) Because $A$ has two pivot positions and A is a 2 by 4 matrix, it has two free variables. To have a nontrivial solution to the equation $Ax=0$, A must have a free variable. Thus, $Ax=0$ has a nontrivial solution. b) Because $A$ has two pivot positions and $A$ is a 2 by 4 matrix, its columns span $\mathbb{R}^2$. For $Ax=b$ to have at least one solution for every possible b, A must have columns which span $\mathbb{R}^2$. Thus, $Ax=b$ has at least one solution for every possible b.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.