Need help finding the reduced row echelon form of a matrix

[nighthawk]

Hello, my calculus teacher gave us these set of problems to do. I'm having a problem on the matrices however...

Find the reduced row echelon form of the matrices:

[ 2 1 1 1]
[-3 -1 -2 1]
[ 5 2 2 3]

and

[ 1 -2 0 4]
[-2 5 3 -6]
[ 2 -4 1 9]

Both of these matrices are 3x4s I have to show all my work so i would appreciate a thorough explanation, but any help is appreciated. Thank you!!!

Thanks!!!

 

[tkhunny]

Re: Need help finding the reduced row echelon form of a matr

Well, then. I suggest you show SOME work and then we can get started.

 

[nighthawk]

Re: Need help finding the reduced row echelon form of a matr

Thanks for your reply.
But, thats the problem... I'm not entirely sure, where to start.

 

[tkhunny]

Re: Need help finding the reduced row echelon form of a matr

Have you attended class?
Have you read the required materials?
I simply do not believe you have NO idea unless you are simply in the wrong class and should back up and start over.

What should it look like when you are done?
How can you change it to get it to look like that? Maybe some elementary row operations?

You MUST know SOMETHING or you need to have a very honest chat with your academic advisor.

 

[mmm4444bot]

I'm having a problem on the matrices

Please be specific. Describe this problem of yours, and I will try to help you.

The FreeMathHelp boards do not comprise an on-line classroom. We're here to answer your specific questions about what you don't understand from lessons and lectures.

On the first matrix, you could begin with the following row operations.

Multiply Row 1 by 1/2

Add 3 times Row 1 to Row 2

Add -5 times Row 1 to Row 3

Column 1 will then be finished.



On the second matrix, you could begin with the following row operations.

Add 2 times Row 1 to Row 2

Add -2 times Row 1 to Row 3

Column 1 will then be finished.