Question

a) Given the following equations:

            5x + y = 16

            2x + y = 7

Set up the equations in matrix algebra form. Solve for x and y by premultiplying both sides of the equation by the inverse of the square matrix, (using the rules for computing the inverse of a 2 x 2 matrix given in class).

b) Given the following equations:

            5x + 2y = 9

            10x + 4y = 18

Attempt to solve for x and y using the method outlined above. Is a unique solution possible? Why or why not?

Answer 1

a) Matrix equation form is

Let

  

  

2)

Hence unique solution not possible