17.

MATRICES AND MATRIX TRANSFORMATIONS

MATRICES
⎛ 2 1 3 0 ⎞
A matrix is a rectangular array of numbers (or M =⎜ 5 7 −6 8 ⎟ 3 × 4
symbols) enclosed in brackets either curved or ⎜ ⎟
⎜⎝ 9 −2 6 −3 ⎟⎠
square. The constituents of a matrix are called entries
or elements. A matrix is usually named by a letter for ⎛ 4 5 7 ⎞
convenience. Some examples are shown below. ⎜ −2 3 ⎟
N= ⎜
6
⎟ 4×3
⎜ −7 1 0 ⎟
æ3 1 4ö ⎜⎝ 9 −5 8 ⎟⎠
X =ç
è2 -7 0 ÷ø Note that the orders 3 × 4 and 4 × 3 are NOT the
æ3 -1 4 2 6ö same.
A=ç
è0 0 1 0 -5 ÷ø
Row matrices
⎡ a b ⎤
F=⎢ ⎥
⎣ c d ⎦ If a matrix is composed only of one row, then it is
called a row matrix (regardless of its number of
⎡ 4 1 2 ⎤
⎢ ⎥ elements). The matrices 𝐽, 𝐾 and 𝐿 are row matrices,
Y = ⎢ 3 −1 5 ⎥
⎢ 6 −2 10 ⎥
⎣ ⎦ J = ( 4 1 3) L = (3 0 -4 2)

⎛ 1 0 ⎞ K = ( 2 1)
I =⎜
⎝ 0 1 ⎟⎠
Column matrices
Rows and Columns If a matrix is composed of only one column, then it is
called a column matrix (regardless of the number of
The elements of a matrix are arranged in rows and elements). The matrices 𝑃, 𝑄 and 𝑅 are column
columns. Elements that are written from left to right matrices.
(horizontally) are called rows. Elements that are
written from top to bottom (vertically) are called ⎛ ⎞
columns. The first row is called ‘row 1’, the second ⎛ 4 ⎞ 6
⎛ 1 ⎞ ⎜ ⎟
Q=⎜ 0 ⎟
‘row 2’, and so on. The first column is called 7
P=⎜ R= ⎜ ⎟
‘column 1, the second ‘column 2’, and so on. ⎝ 2 ⎟⎠ ⎜ ⎟
⎜⎝ 3 ⎟⎠ ⎜ 8 ⎟
⎜⎝ 9 ⎟⎠
⎛ 3 1 4 −1 ⎞ Row 1
⎜ ⎟ Square matrices
M = ⎜ 0 11 −5 8 ⎟ Row 2
⎜ 2 1 6 −4 ⎟ Row 3
⎝ ⎠ If a matrix has the same number of rows as the
Col 1 Col 2 Col 3 Col 4
number of columns, then it is called square. For
example, a matrix that has 6 rows and 6 columns is a
⎛ 3 1 4 −1 ⎞ square matrix. We may describe such a matrix as
⎜ ⎟ being square of order 6 or simply a 6 ´ 6 matrix. An
N =⎜ 0 11 −5 8 ⎟
⎜ 2 m ´ m matrix is a square matrix of order m. Q and S
⎝ 1 6 − 4 ⎟⎠
are square matrices.

Order of a matrix æ 1 -1 ö æ 1 2 4ö
Q=ç
è4 2 ÷ø S = çç -1 -1 2 ÷÷
The order of a matrix is written as 𝑚 × 𝑛, where m ç 0 0 11÷
represents the number of rows and n represents the 2´2 è ø
number of columns. A matrix of order 4 × 3, consists 3´ 3
of 4 rows and 3 columns while a matrix of order
3 × 4 consists of 3 rows and 4 columns.

160
The position of elements in a matrix Diagonal matrices

Every single entry in a matrix has a specific position A diagonal matrix is a square matrix whose non-
that can be uniquely described. In describing the diagonal elements are zero. T and V are diagonal
position, we use the notation aij where the subscript, matrices.
i, refers to the row number and the subscript j refers
to the column number of the element. ⎛ 3 0 0 ⎞
Since each position is unique, no two entries can ⎛ 2 0 ⎞ V = ⎜ 0 −5 0 ⎟
T =⎜ ⎜ ⎟
have the same row and column number. The symbol ⎝ 0 5 ⎟⎠ ⎜⎝ 0 0 7 ⎟⎠
a represents an element.
th
aij belongs to the i th row and the j column.
a42 belongs to the 4th row and the 2nd column. Zero matrix
a24 belongs to the 2nd row and the 4th column. If all the elements of any matrix are zero(s), then the
For the matrix, A, defined below, we can assign each matrix is called a zero matrix. Some examples are
element its unique position shown below. Notice shown below. A zero matrix can be of any order.
aij ≠ a ji . For example, a13 ≠ a31 .
⎡ 0 0 ⎤ ⎡ 0 0 0 ⎤ ⎡ 0 0 0 ⎤
⎢ ⎥ ⎢ ⎥ ⎣ ⎦
⎛ 4 1 3 2 ⎞ ⎣ 0 0 ⎦ ⎣ 0 0 0 ⎦
⎜ ⎟
A = ⎜ 0 −11 6 5 ⎟
⎜ 5 −10 −2 1 ⎟
⎝ ⎠ Operations on Matrices

Col 1 Col 2 Col 3 Col 4 In performing operations on matrices, there are some
restrictions. Unlike numbers, one cannot always add,
⎛ 4 112 313 214 ⎞ Row 1
11 subtract or multiply any two matrices. In fact, a
⎜ ⎟
A = ⎜ 021 − 1122 623 524 ⎟ Row 2 division of two matrices is not even possible.
⎜ ⎟
⎝ 531 − 1032 − 233 134 ⎠ Row 3
Addition

Diagonal elements Matrices can only be added if they are of the same
order. This is done by adding or subtracting
Diagonal elements are the elements positioned along corresponding entries. The resulting matrix will also
the diagonal of a square matrix. A and B are square be of the same order.
matrices and have diagonal elements of the type aii .
é1 2 -1ù é 0 -4 2 ù
Square matrix with three diagonal A= ê ú B=ê ú
elements ë 4 3 -5û ë -1 6 3 û
æ 311 1 4 ö 2´3 2´3
A = çç 2 022 6 ÷÷ é1
A + B = ê 11
212 -113 ù é 011
+
-412 213 ù
ç -11 5 - 833 ÷ø ë 421 322 -523 úû êë -121 622 323 úû
è
2´3 2´3
Square matrix with two diagonal é (1 + 0 )11 ( 2 + ( -4 ) ) ( -1 + 2 )13 ù
elements A+ B = ê 12
ú
êë( 4 + ( -1) )21 ( 3 + 6 )22 (5 + 3)23 úû
æ 1 4 ö 2´3
B = ç 11
è 0 622 ÷ø
é1 -2 1ù
A+ B = ê ú
ë 3 9 8û
2´3

161
Subtraction
Solution
Matrices can only be subtracted if they are of the æ 2 1ö æ6 3ö
same order. This is done by subtracting (i) 3 A = 3 ç ÷=ç ÷
corresponding entries. The resulting matrix will also è 3 4 ø è 9 12 ø
be of the same order.
æ 4 -1 2 ö æ -8 2 -1 ö
(ii) -2 B = -2 ç ÷=ç ÷
é1 2 -1ù
A= ê ú è 0 7 -3 ø è 0 14 -6 ø
ë 4 3 -5û
2´3
é 0 -4 2 ù
B=ê ú Equal matrices
ë -1 6 3 û
2´3 Two matrices are equal if:
é1 212 -113 ù é 011 -412 213 ù 1. They are of the same order
A - B = ê 11 - 2. Their corresponding entries are equal.
ë 421 322 -523 úû êë -121 622 323 úû
2´3 2´3 Both conditions must be satisfied before we can
deduce that the matrices are equal. Conversely, if
é (1 - 0 )11 ( 2 - ( -4 ) ) ( -1 - 2 )13 ù matrices are equal then we can deduce that they must
A- B = ê 12
ú
êë( 4 - ( -1) )21 ( 3 - 6 )22 (5 - 3)23 úû be of the same order and that their corresponding
entries are equal. Consider the matrices S and T. They
2´3 are of the same order and their corresponding entries
é1 6 -3ù are the same. Therefore, S = T .
A- B = ê ú
ë5 -3 2 û
æ 1 3ö æ 1 3ö
2´3
S = çç 4 -6 ÷÷ T = çç 4 -6 ÷÷
ç 2 0÷ ç 2 0÷
Rule for addition and subtraction of matrices è ø è ø

If two matrices have the same order, the matrices Example 2

are said to be conformable to addition and é 4 2xù é4 6ù
subtraction. We obtain the resulting matrix by Given that A= ê ú B=ê ú and
adding or subtracting corresponding elements. ë - y -2 û ë 2 -2û
A = B , find the value of x and of y.

Scalar multiplication Solution

If A = B , then A and B are of the same order and
If a matrix is multiplied by a scalar then each element their corresponding entries are the same.
of the matrix is multiplied by the scalar. The resulting Equating corresponding entries:
matrix is of the same order. 2x = 6 -y=2
æa b c ö \x = 3 \ y = -2
A=ç ÷
èd e f ø
æ ka kb kc ö Example 3
kA = ç ÷ , k is a scalar
è kd ke kf ø æ 1 -2 ö æ 0 1ö
Given that A=ç ÷ and B = ç ÷ and
è1 3 ø è 4 3ø
Example 1
æ2 1ö
æ1 2x ö
(i) If A = ç ÷ , then calculate 3𝐴 ç
A - 2B = y ÷ , find the value of x, y and z.
è 3 4ø ç -z ÷
è2 ø
æ 4 -1 2 ö
(ii) If B = ç ÷ , then calculate −2𝐵
è 0 7 -3 ø

162
Solution
We first need to obtain a single matrix for A – 2B. Order of A Order of B Order of C
æ1 2x ö 2´3 3´2 2´2
A - 2B = ç y ÷ 3´4 4´2 3´2
ç -z ÷
è2 ø 4´2 2´3 4´3
4´3 3´2 4´2
æ1 2x ö
æ 1 -2 ö æ 0 1ö ç ÷
ç1 3 ÷ - 2 =
ç 4 3÷ ç y If two matrices cannot be multiplied, they are said to
è ø è ø - z ÷
è2 ø be non-conformable to multiplication. For example,
the product YX is not possible since the number of
æ1 2x ö columns of Y (2) ≠ the number of rows of X, (4)
æ 1 -2 ö æ 0 2 ö ç ÷
ç1 3 ÷ - ç 8 6 ÷ = ç y ´ X Þ This cannot be done.
è ø è ø -z ÷ Y
è2 ø
3´ 2 4´3
æ 1 2 xö
æ 1 -4 ö ç ÷
ç -7 -3 ÷ = ç y We will now illustrate how two matrices can be
è ø -z ÷
è2 ø multiplied using the matrices A and B below.
Equating corresponding entries æ 1 2 3 2ö
-4 = 2 x y -3 = - z æ 1 4 -1 ö ç ÷
-7 = A=ç ÷ and B = ç -1 -1 1 -1 ÷
2 x = -4 2 - z = -3 è 2 0 -3 ø ç 0 4 6 2÷
y è ø
-4 = -7 z=3
x= 2 We wish to determine the matrix AB.
2
y = -7 ( 2 )
x = -2
y = -14 First, check to see if this is possible.
A ´ B = C
2´3 3´ 4 2´4
The Identity or Unit matrix
Based on the above rule, the matrix product 𝐴𝐵 exists
If all the diagonal elements of a diagonal matrix are and the product, 𝐶 will be a 2´4 matrix.
equal to one, then it is called the unit or identity
matrix and is denoted by U or I only. We write out the structure of the answer, that is, what
C looks like. We set up a 2´4 matrix, using the
A unit matrix of A unit matrix of order 3 symbol e, to represent an element.
order 2 æ1 0 0ö
U = çç 0 1 0 ÷÷
æ1 0ö C1 C2 C 3 C 4
I =ç ÷
è0 1ø ç0 0 1÷ ⎛ e11 e12 e13 e14 ⎞ R1
è ø C=⎜ ⎟
⎝ e21 e22 e23 e24 ⎠ R2

Matrix multiplication We then set up the multiplication in the correct order:

Unlike addition and subtraction, the order of two æ 1 2 3 2ö

matrices need not be the same for multiplication. If A æ 1 4 -1 ö ç ÷
A´ B = ç ÷ ç -1 -1 1 -1 ÷
´
and B are two matrices, for A ´ B to be possible, then è 2 0 - 3 ø ç 0 4 6 2÷
the number of columns of A must be equal to the è ø
number of rows of B. We write this symbolically as: 2´3 3´ 4

A ´ B = C Each element in the product is calculated by

m´n n´ p m´ p multiplying corresponding elements, for example, to
compute e13, we multiply corresponding elements of
Row 1 from the first matrix, A, with elements of
The table below list some examples of this principle, Column 3 from the second matrix, B.
for 2 matrices A and B.

163
Each element in the product is the sum of three terms. Commutative Property
For example, 𝑒77 is the product of the elements of
Row 1 and Column 1. The commutative law of multiplication is not obeyed
1 in matrices. Consider two matrices 𝐴, and 𝐵, such
𝑅7 𝐶7 = (1 4 −1) <−1>. that:
0
Notice that there are 3 elements in each row and 3 A ´ B = C
elements in each column. Hence, there is a one-one
correspondence between the elements. We simply 4´2 2´4 4´4
match corresponding elements in order and multiply B ´ A = D
each pair. The sum of the three products is the value 2´4 4´2 2´2
of the element. The computation is completed below.
The product, 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐶 and 𝐶 is a 4´4 matrix.
e11 = 1 ´ 1 + 4 ´ ( -1) + ( -1) ´ 0 = 1 - 4 + 0 = -3 The product 𝐵𝐴 = 𝐷 and 𝐷 is a 2´2 matrix.
e12 = 1 ´ 2 + 4 ´ ( -1) + ( -1) ´ 4 = 2 - 4 - 4 = -6 Since the order of 𝐶 and 𝐷 is not the same, C and D
cannot be equal, C¹D, and it follows that 𝐴𝐵¹𝐵𝐶.
e13 = 1 ´ 3 + 4 ´ 1 + ( -1) ´ 6 = 3 + 4 - 6 = 1
e21 = 2 ´ 1 + 0 ´ ( -1) + ( -3) ´ 0 = 2 + 0 + 0 = 2 We can conclude that matrix multiplication is not
communicative.
e22 = 2 ´ 2 + 0 ´ ( -1) + ( -3) ´ 4 = 4 + 0 - 12 = -8
e23 = 2 ´ 3 + 0 ´ 1 + ( -3) ´ 6 = 6 + 0 - 18 = -12 Example 5
e24 = 2 ´ 2 + 0 ´ ( -1) + ( -3) ´ ( -2 ) = 4 + 0 + 6 = 10 æ1ö
Given that A = (1 -1) and B = ç ÷ .
æ -3 -6 1 0ö è2ø
\ A´ B = ç ÷ Calculate (i) AB (ii) BA
è 2 -8 -12 10 ø
Comment on the products.
Example 4
Solution
æ 1 -1ö (i) A ´ B = C
æ 2 -1 0 ö ç ÷
Given that P = ç
1 4 1 ÷ and Q = ç 4 1 ÷ , 1´ 2 2 ´1 Þ 1´1
è ø ç 0 1÷
è ø C = ( e11 )
find PQ. A ´ B = C
Solution æ1ö
(1 -1) ´ ç ÷ = ( e11 )
First, we check the order of the resulting matrix: è2ø
P ´ Q = R e11 = 1´1 + ( -1) ´ 2 = 1 - 2 = -1
2´3 3´ 2 Þ 2 ´ 2
\ AB = ( -1)
Now set up the multiplication, equating it to the
structure of the product B ´ A = D
(ii)
P ´ Q = R 2 ´1 1´ 2 Þ 2 ´ 2
æ 1 -1ö æe e ö
æ 2 -1 0 ö ç ÷ æ e11 e12 ö D = ç 11 12 ÷
ç 1 4 1 ÷ ´ ç 4 1÷ = ç e ÷ è e21 e22 ø
è ø ç 0 1 ÷ è 21 e22 ø
è ø æ1ö æ e11 e12 ö
Multiply corresponding elements as follows: ç 2 ÷ ´ (1 -1) = ç e ÷
è ø è 21 e22 ø
e11 = 2 ´ 1 + ( -1) ´ 4 + 0 ´ 0 = -2
𝑒77 = 1 × 1 = 1
e12 = 2 ´ ( -1) + ( -1) ´ 1 + 0 ´ 1 = -3 𝑒7@ = 1 × −1 = −1
e21 = 1 ´ 1 + 4 ´ 4 + 2 ´ 0 = 17 𝑒@7 = 2 × 1 = 2
𝑒@@ = 2 × −1 = −2
e22 = 1 ´ ( -1) + 4 ´ 1 + 2 ´ 1 = 5 1 −1
𝐵𝐴 = A B
2 −2
The products 𝐴𝐵 ≠ 𝐵𝐴. This illustrates the non-
æ -2 -3 ö
\ PQ = ç commutative property of matrix multiplication.
è 17 5 ÷ø

164
Example 6 We can apply the same concept.
æ -1 0 ö æ 3 -1 ö
Given that A=ç ÷, B=ç ÷ and The additive inverse of a matrix M is -M because
è 2 3ø è0 4ø M + − M = Zero Matrix
æ 2a -b ö
↑ ↑ ↑
AB = ç d ÷÷ , calculate the values of a, b, c and d.
ç c Matrix Inverse Identity
è 3ø

Solution The null or zero matrix is the identity element for the
æ -1 0 ö æ 3 -1 ö addition of matrices because adding the zero matrix
A´ B = ç ÷´ç ÷ to any matrix leaves the matrix unchanged.
è 2 3ø è 0 4 ø A
𝑎 𝑏
B+A
0 0
B = A
𝑎 𝑏
B
2´2 2´2 𝑐 𝑑 0 0 𝑐 𝑑
2´2
¬¾¾ ®
æe e ö
A ´ B = ç 11 12 ÷ We will now recall the terms multiplicative identity
è e21 e22 ø elements and multiplicative inverses in relation to
e11 = ( -1) ´ 3 + 0 ´ 0 = -3 numbers.
e12 = ( -1) ´ ( -1) + 0 ´ 4 = 1
The multiplicative inverse of a number, N is 𝑁 L7
e21 = 2 ´ 3 + 3 ´ 0 = 6 because
e22 = 2 ´ ( -1) + 3 ´ 4 = 10 𝑁 × 𝑁 L7 = 1
æ -3 1 ö ↑ ↑ ↑
\ AB = ç ÷
è 6 10 ø Number Inverse Identity
Element
æ 2a -b ö
ç æ -3 1 ö The identity element for multiplication of
ç c d ÷÷ = ç ÷ numbers is 1 because multiplying any number
è 6 10 ø
è 3ø by 1 leaves the number unchanged. If N
Equating corresponding elements: represents any number, then
𝑁×1 =𝑁
-3 = 2a -b = 1 By d
= 10
2a = -3 b = -1 inspection 3
3 c=6 d = 10 ´ 3 We can apply the same concept to matrices, whereby,
a=-
2 d = 30
The multiplicative inverse of a matrix, 𝑀 is
𝑀L7 because
𝑀 × 𝑀L7 = 𝐼
Identity elements and inverses - 2×2 matrices
↑ ↑ ↑
We have encountered the terms additive identity Matrix Inverse Identity Matrix
elements and additive inverses in relation to numbers.
The identity element for multiplication of matrices is
The additive inverse of a number N is -N because the identity matrix, I because multiplying any matrix
N + −N = Zero
by I leaves the matrix unchanged. If M represents
↑ ↑ ↑ any 2×2 matrix, then
Number Inverse Identity 𝑎 𝑏 1 0 𝑎 𝑏
A B×A B = A B
𝑐 𝑑 0 1 𝑐 𝑑

Zero is called the identity element for addition

because adding zero to any number leaves the
number unchanged. If 𝑵 represents any number,
then N + 0 = N
To find the additive inverse of a matrix, we simply
reverse the directions of all its elements. However, to
find the multiplicative inverse of a matrix requires a
number of steps. We will now illustrate how to carry
these steps in relation to 2×2 matrices only.

165
Inverse of a 2×2 matrix Example 8
Show that the matrix, N is singular where
The inverse of a matrix requires applying a set of æ6 4ö
procedures and is not as simple as finding the inverse N =ç ÷.
of a number. In addition, all matrices do not have è 3 2ø
inverses. To determine if a matrix has an inverse we
must examine its determinant. Solution
N = ( 6 ´ 2 ) - ( 4 ´ 3)
The determinant of a 2×2 matrix = 12 - 12
æa bö =0
If M = ç ÷ then M or det M = ad - bc .
èc dø N = 0 Þ N is singular and has no inverse.
If det M or M = 0 , then the matrix does not have an
inverse and is singular.

After establishing that the matrix is non-singular we Example 9

proceed to find its adjunct. æ4 aö
Given that A = ç and that A is singular, find
The adjunct of a 2×2 matrix è2 -3 ÷ø
The adjunct of a 2x2 matrix is found by a.
rearranging the elements on the main diagonal and
changing the signs of the elements on the other Solution
diagonal. If A is singular then A = 0 .
æa bö ( 4 ´ -3) - ( a ´ 2 ) = 0
If M = ç ÷ , then the adjunct of M, is
èc dø - 12 - 2a = 0
𝑑 −𝑏
A B - 2a = 12
−𝑐 𝑎
a = -6
The inverse of a 2×2 matrix
æa bö Property of the inverse
If , M = ç ÷ and A = ad - bc , where
èc dø
ad - bc ¹ 0 , then Only square matrices have inverses. The product of a
matrix and its inverse is the identity inverse. This is
7 true regardless of its order.
𝑀L7=|Q| (adjoint of A)
1 𝑑 −𝑏 Example 10
𝑀L7 = A B
𝑎𝑑 − 𝑏𝑐 −𝑐 𝑎 æ 2 -1 ö L7
Given that Q = ç ÷ , find 𝑄 . Show that
è 4 -3 ø
𝑄 × 𝑄L7 = 𝐼.
Example 7
æ6 2ö -1 Solution
Given that B = ç
3 4 ÷ , find B .
è ø Det Q = (2 × −3) − (−1 × 4) = −6 − (−4) = −2
Determinant is non-zero, Q has an inverse
Solution 1 −3 1 3 1
𝑄L7 = A B = <2 − 2>
First, examine the value 1 æ 4 - (2) ö −2 −4 2
of the determinant. B -1 = ç ÷ 2 −1
18 è - ( 3) 6 ø
det B = ( 6 ´ 4 ) - ( 2 ´ 3) 3 1
æ 4 2ö 2 −1 <
= 24 - 6 𝑄 × 𝑄L7 = A B 2 − 2>
ç 18 - 18 ÷ 4 −3
= 18 =ç ÷ 2 −1
ç- 3 6 ÷ 3 − 1 −1 + 1 1 0
Since det B is not zero, B ç ÷ 𝑄 × 𝑄L7 =A B=A B
è 18 18 ø 6 − 6 −2 + 3 0 1
has an inverse.

166
Using matrices to solve a pair of simultaneous Pre-multiply the matrix equation
-1
by A on both
equations sides to isolate the unknown matrix.
æ 5 3 ö æ 5 3 ö
To solve a pair of simultaneous equations using the ç 47 47 ÷ æ 7 -3 ö æ x ö ç 47 47 ÷ æ 11 ö
ç ÷ =ç ÷
7 ÷ çè 4 5 ÷ø çè y ÷ø ç 4 7 ÷ çè 13 ÷ø
matrix method, we must first convert the pair of
ç- 4
equations to the matrix form. ç ÷ ç- ÷
è 47 47 ø è 47 47 ø
This is done by extracting the coefficients of the
variables to form a 2´2 matrix. This matrix of The left-hand side simplifies to:
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥 𝑥
coefficients multiplied by the matrix A𝑦 B should 𝐴 × 𝐴L7 A𝑦 B = 𝐼 A𝑦 B = A𝑦 B
produce the left-hand side of the matrix equation, as
shown in the examples below. 3. Simplify the right-hand side:
æ 5 3 ö
3x + 2 y = 8 4x - 3y = 1 ç 47 47 ÷ æ 11ö æ e11 ö
ç ÷ =ç ÷
5x - 6 y = 4 5 x + 7 y = 12 ç- 4 7 ÷ çè 13 ÷ø è e21 ø
ç ÷
The matrix equation is: The matrix equation is è 47 47 ø
æ3 2öæ x ö æ8ö æ 4 -3 ö æ x ö æ 1 ö 2´2 2 ´1 2 ´1
ç 5 -6 ÷ ç y ÷ = ç 4 ÷ ç 5 7 ÷ ç y ÷ = ç 12 ÷
è øè ø è ø è øè ø è ø æ 5 ö æ 3 ö
e11 = ç ´ 11÷ + ç ´ 13 ÷ = 2
è 47 ø è 47 ø
æ 4 ö æ 7 ö
Using a matrix method, we will solve for x and y in: e21 = ç - ´ 11÷ + ç ´ 13 ÷ = 1
7 x - 3 y = 11 …(1) è 47 ø è 47 ø
4 x + 5 y = 13 …(2)
Equating LHS to RHS gives
æ x ö æ 2ö
1. Rewrite as a matrix equation: ç y ÷ = ç1÷
æ 7 -3 ö æ x ö æ 11ö è ø è ø
\ç ÷ç ÷ = ç ÷ Equating corresponding elements,
è 4 5 ø è y ø è 13 ø x = 2 and y = 1
This is of the form 𝐴𝑋 = 𝐵, where 𝐴, 𝑋 and 𝐵 are
Summary of steps in solving simultaneous
matrices with
𝑥 equations using the matrix method.
7 −3 11
𝐴=A B , 𝑋 = A𝑦 B and 𝐵 = A B
4 5 13
1. Express the pair of equations as a matrix
𝑥 equation.
2. Isolate 𝑋 = A𝑦 B -1
2. Find A , the inverse of A, which is the
In our study of simple equations, we used inverses to 2 ´ 2 matrix in the matrix equation
isolate the variable and solve the equation. We do 3. Pre-multiply both sides of the equation by
likewise when solving matrix equations. To isolate 𝑥
the unknown matrix, 𝑋, we need to determine the A-1 , this simplifies to: A𝑦 B = 𝐴L7 𝐵
inverse of the matrix, 𝐴. 4. Simplify the right-hand side to obtain a
æ 7 -3 ö A = ( 7 ´ 5) - ( -3 ´ 4 ) 2 × 1 matrix.
Let A = ç ÷ , now 5. Equate corresponding elements to obtain
è 4 5ø = 47
the values of the unknowns.
So, the inverse of A is
1 æ 5 - ( -3) ö It should now be noted that so far, we have
A-1 = ç ÷
47 è - ( 4 ) 7 ø encountered three methods to solve a pair of
simultaneous equations. These are:
æ 5 3ö 1. Algebraic methods (elimination and substitution)
ç 47 47 ÷ 2. Graphical method
=ç ÷
ç- 4 7 ÷ 3. Matrix method
ç ÷
è 47 47 ø
In some cases, we are asked to use a specific method
and so it is necessary to be familiar with all three

167
methods. Of course, when we have a choice we select producing three sizes of T-shirts may sell different
the one that is most efficient and easy for us to apply. quantities of each size on a particular day. They may
record their sales in a table after 2 days as such:
Example 10
Express the equations Small Medium Large
2𝑥 + 5𝑦 = 6 Day 1 8 12 3
3𝑥 + 4𝑦 = 8 Day 2 6 10 5
in the form 𝐴𝑋 = 𝐵, where 𝐴, 𝑋 and 𝐵 are matrices.
Hence, solve for 𝑥 and 𝑦 using the matrix method.
Their prices can also be recorded in another table,
such as:
Solution
The equations in a matrix form are: Small Medium Large
æ 2 5ö æ x ö æ6ö Cost $15 $20 $25
çç ÷÷ çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷
è 3 4ø è y ø è8ø
AX = B If we wish to determine the total sales for each day,
´ A-1 we can set up a pair of matrices whose product will
produce these totals.
A ´ A-1 ´ X = A -1 ´ B
I ´ X = A-1 B We can represent the matrix of quantities sold as
follows: Each cell refers to the number of T-shirts
X = A-1 B sold on a particular day in a given size. Two
possibilities exist, a 2 × 3 or a 3 × 1.
Det A = 2 × 4 − 5 × 3 = −7
æ 4 5ö 8 6
ç- ÷ 8 12 3
7 7 A B or <12 10>
A =ç
-1
÷ 6 10 5
çç 3 - 2 ÷÷ 6 5
è 7 7ø
We can also represent the cost of each size as a
æ 4 5ö
matrix, either a 3 × 1 or a 1 × 3 matrix can be used.
æ xö ç- 7 ÷
7 ÷ æç 6 ö÷
çç ÷÷ = ç ç ÷ This would look like:
è y ø çç 3 - 2 ÷÷ è 8 ø
è 7 7ø 15
æ æ 4 ö æ5 ö ö (15 20 25) or <20>
ç ç - ´ 6÷ + ç ´ 8÷ ÷ 25
7 ø è7 ø ÷
=ç è
ç æ3 ö æ 2 ö÷ Assuming we wish to calculate the total sales on each
ç ç ´ 6÷ + ç - ´ 8÷ ÷
è è7 ø è 7 øø day, we can set up a multiplication of two matrices
æ 24 40 ö such that the product yields the total.
ç- + ÷
=ç 7 7 ÷
Using our rules for matrix multiplication, we can
çç 18 - 16 ÷÷
è 7 7 ø come up with the following product:
æ 2ö 15
ç2 ÷ 8 12 3 < >.
= ç 7÷
A B 20
6 10 5
çç 2 ÷÷ 25
è 7ø
@ @ This product is conformable to multiplication
Hence, 𝑥 = 2 , 𝑦 =
_ _ because a 2 × 3 multiplied by a 3 × 1 results in a
2 × 1 matrix. We now set up the multiplication.

Using matrices to solve word problems 15

8 12 3
A B <20>
6 10 5
A single matrix can capture an array of numbers and 25
it is sometimes convenient to use such arrays to 8 × 15 + 12 × 20 + 3 × 25
represent information. For example, a company =A B
6 × 15 + 10 × 20 + 5 × 25

168
 120 + 240 + 75 435 needed to know the geometric properties of the
=A B=A B
90 + 200 + 125 415 transformations so that we can locate their images.
This is interpreted as:
In this section, we will learn how to perform
The total sales of T-shirts for day 1 is $435.
geometric transformations using matrices – this
The total sales of T-shirts for day 2 is $415
method relies on algebraic rather than geometric
techniques and can be quite effective. In fact, we do
Example 11 not need to use a Cartesian Plane to locate the image,
A business makes toy trucks and toy cars. The we simply calculate the coordinates of the image
following table is used in calculating the cost of points using the appropriate matrix.
manufacturing each toy.

Labour Wood Paint Matrices for Translation

(Hours) (Blocks) (Tins)
Trucks 6 8 3 When we performed a translation, we used a column
Cars 3 4 2 matrix to locate the image. For example, to determine
Boats 5 7 1 the coordinates of the image of P(5, 4) under a
translation of 3 units parallel to the X-axis, we
Labour costs $80 per hour, wood costs $10 per block represent both the object point and translation as
and paint costs $20 per tin. column vectors. Then we added vectors to obtain the
Using matrix multiplication, calculate the cost of image point.
manufacturing each toy.
5 3 8
A B + A B = A B
4 0 4
Solution
The matrix for the quantities of toys manufactured is
6 8 3 Object Point Translation vector Image Point
<3 4 2>
5 7 1
80
The cost matrix is written as follows: <20>. Hence, the coordinates of the image of P is (8, 4).
Note that for the purpose of computation, we write
10
The required product is: the coordinates of (x, y) as a column matrix.

6 8 3 80 240 + 160 + 30 Translation matrices are written as 2×1 matrices, also

<3 4 2> <20> = < 240 + 80 + 20 > called column vectors because a translation is really a
5 7 1 10 400 + 140 + 10 vector. To perform any of the other geometric
3×3 3×1 3×1 transformations, we use 2× 2 matrices.
430
= <340> Deriving Matrices for Transformations
560
We now interpret the product as
The matrices for performing reflections, rotations and
Cost of producing trucks is $430, dilations are all 2× 2 matrices. To derive these
Cost of producing cars $340 and matrices, we use a general principle that holds for
Cost of producing boats $560. transforming an object point (𝑥, 𝑦) to its
corresponding image point (𝑥 b , 𝑦′).

This general principle is stated below.

MATRIX TRANSFORMATIONS In general, the image of a point (x, y), under a
𝑎 𝑏
transformation, defined by a 2× 2 matrix A B,
𝑐 𝑑
In our study of transformations so far, we examined b
is the point (𝑥 , 𝑦′), where
different types of movements and their effect on 𝑎 𝑏 𝑥 𝑥′
plane shapes. To perform these movements, we A B A B = d e,
𝑐 𝑑 𝑦 𝑦′

169
Our knowledge of the geometric properties of these Reflection in the X-axis
transformations will be applied to determine the
matrices for each transformation. (1, 0 ) ⟶ (1, 0) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (0, −1)
Hence, Hence,
Consider a unit square, drawn in the first quadrant 𝑎 𝑏 1 1 𝑎 𝑏 0 0
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
whose coordinates are (0, 0), (1, 0), (1, 1) and (0, 1). 𝑐 𝑑 0 0 𝑐 𝑑 1 −1
Under a given transformation each point (x, y) will Multiplying Multiplying
𝑎 1 𝑏 0
move to (𝑥 b , 𝑦′) where, A B=A B A B=A B
𝑐 0 𝑑 −1
𝑎 𝑏 𝑥 𝑥b Therefore Therefore
A B A𝑦 B = d b e 𝑎 = 1 and 𝑐 = 0 𝑏 = 0 and 𝑑 = −1
𝑐 𝑑 𝑦

We can calculate the values of 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐, and 𝑑 by 1 0

The matrix for reflection in the X-axis is A B
substituting two pairs of object and image points in 0 −1
the above matrix equation.

Unit square y
Reflection in the Y-axis

(1, 0 ) ⟶ (−1, 0) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (0, 1)

D(0,1) C(1,1) Hence, Hence,
𝑎 𝑏 1 −1 𝑎 𝑏 0 0
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
𝑐 𝑑 0 0 𝑐 𝑑 1 1
Multiplying Multiplying
𝑎 −1 𝑏 0
A(0,0) B(1, 0) x A B=A B A B=A B
𝑐 0 𝑑 1
Therefore Therefore
𝑎 = −1 and 𝑐 = 0 𝑏 = 0 and 𝑑 = 1

−1 0
The matrix for reflection in the Y-axis is A B
0 1

Matrices for Reflection

We will start with the matrix for reflection in the 𝑥
axis. Under this reflection, the unit square will flip so Reflection in the line 𝒚 = 𝒙
that it is now in the fourth quadrant.
(1, 0 ) ⟶ (0, 1) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (1, 0)
Unit square and Hence, Hence,
its image after a 𝑎 𝑏 1 0 𝑎 𝑏 0 1
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
reflection in the 𝑐 𝑑 0 1 𝑐 𝑑 1 0
Multiplying Multiplying
𝑥-axis. 𝑎 0
A B=A B 𝑏 1
(1, 0) ⟶ (1, 0) 𝑐 A B=A B
1 𝑑 0
(0, 1) ⟶ (0, −1) Therefore Therefore
(1, 1) ⟶ (1, −1) 𝑎 = 0 and 𝑐 = 1 𝑏 = 1 and 𝑑 = 0
(0, 0) ⟶ (0, 0)

0 1
The matrix for reflection in the X-axis is A B
1 0

For convenience, we select the two points (1, 0) and

(0, 1), This is repeated for each of the transformations
performed below.

170
 Reflection in the line 𝒚 = −𝒙 A rotation about the origin through 1800

(1, 0 ) ⟶ (0, −1) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (−1, 0) (1, 0 ) ⟶ (−1, 0) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (0, −1)
Hence, Hence, Hence, Hence,
𝑎 𝑏 1 0 𝑎 𝑏 0 −1 𝑎 𝑏 1 −1 𝑎 𝑏 0 0
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
𝑐 𝑑 0 −1 𝑐 𝑑 1 0 𝑐 𝑑 0 0 𝑐 𝑑 1 −1
Multiplying Multiplying Multiplying Multiplying
𝑎 0 𝑏 −1 𝑎 −1 𝑏 0
A B=A B A B=A B A B=A B A B=A B
𝑐 −1 𝑑 0 𝑐 0 𝑑 −1
Therefore Therefore Therefore Therefore
𝑎 = 0 and 𝑐 = −1 𝑏 = −1 and 𝑑 = 0 𝑎 = −1 and 𝑐 = 0 𝑏 = 0 and 𝑑 = −1
The matrix for reflection in the line 𝑦 = −𝑥 is The matrix for a rotation about
0 −1 −1 0
A B the origin through 1800 is A B
−1 0 0 −1
0
Note that for a 180 rotation, there is no need to
specify the direction since clockwise or anticlockwise
Matrices for Rotation turns will produce the same image.

The matrices derived for rotation are defined for an

anticlockwise rotation about the origin. In each case, General matrix for rotation
𝑎 𝑏
the matrix A B represents an anticlockwise
𝑐 𝑑 The above matrices are confined to angles that are
rotation about the origin. Also, we should note that an multiples of 900 degrees. If one has to perform a
anticlockwise rotation of 900 is the same as a rotation through other angles, there is a general
clockwise rotation of 2700 so we need not derive matrix for rotation of 𝜃 j about the origin in an
matrices for clockwise rotations. anticlockwise direction where 𝜃 can be any angle.
The matrix for an anticlockwise rotation through
𝜃 j about the origin is
Anticlockwise rotation about the origin
through 900 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃 −𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃
A B
(1, 0 ) ⟶ (0, 1) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (−1, 0) 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝜃
Hence, Hence,
𝑎 𝑏 1 0 𝑎 𝑏 −1 −1
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
𝑐 𝑑 0 1 𝑐 𝑑 0 0 Matrix for Dilation (enlargement)
Multiplying Multiplying
𝑎 0 𝑏 −1 𝑎 𝑏
A B=A B A B=A B Let A B represent the matrix for a dilation. We
𝑐 1 𝑑 0 𝑐 𝑑
Therefore Therefore can now derive the general matrix for a dilation with
𝑎 = 0 and 𝑐 = 1 𝑏 = −1 and 𝑑 = 0 scale factor, k, about the origin. Recall that under a
The matrix for an anticlockwise rotation about dilation, a point (x, y) is mapped onto (kx, ky). So, the
0 −1
the origin through 900 is A B unit square will have sides that are 𝑘 units in length.
1 0
Enlargement with center origin, scale factor, k
Anticlockwise rotation about the origin
through 2700 (1, 0 ) ⟶ (𝑘, 0) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (0, 𝑘)
(1, 0 ) ⟶ (0, −1) (0, 1 ) ⟶ (1, 0) Hence, Hence,
Hence, Hence, 𝑎 𝑏 1 𝑘 𝑎 𝑏 0 0
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B
𝑎 𝑏 1 0 𝑎 𝑏 0 1 𝑐 𝑑 0 0 𝑐 𝑑 1 𝑘
A BA B = A B A BA B = A B Multiplying Multiplying
𝑐 𝑑 0 −1 𝑐 𝑑 1 0 𝑎
Multiplying Multiplying 𝑘 𝑏 0
A B=A B A B=A B
𝑎 0 𝑏 1 𝑐 0 𝑑 𝑘
A B=A B A B=A B Therefore Therefore
𝑐 −1 𝑑 0
Therefore Therefore 𝑎 = 𝑘 and 𝑐 = 0 𝑏 = 0 and 𝑑 = 𝑘
𝑎 = 0 and 𝑐 = −1 𝑏 = 1 and 𝑑 = 0 The matrix for enlargement with centre origin,
The matrix for an anticlockwise rotation about 𝑘 0
scale factor, k is A B
0 1 0 𝑘
the origin through 2700 is A B
−1 0

171
Example 12 Example 14
The triangle PQR has coordinates P(3, 5), Q(6, 5)
and R(6, 7). The triangle LMN has coordinates L(1, 4), M(3, 4)
Determine the coordinates of the image of triangle and N(1, 6). Determine the coordinates of the image
PQR under a reflection in the 𝑦- axis of triangle LMN under an enlargement with center (0,
0) with scale factor 3.
Solution
Solution
−1 0
Matrix for reflection in the Y axis is A B. Matrix for enlargement with center (0, 0), k=3 is
0 1 3 0
To calculate the image of P, Q and R under the A B.
reflection, pre-multiply as follows: 0 3
To calculate the image of P, Q and R under the
enlargement, pre-multiply as follows:
−1 0 3 −3
A B A B = A B, hence
0 1 5 5 3 0 1 3
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝑃(3,5) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝑃b (−3,5) A B A B = A B, hence
0 3 4 12
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝐿(1,4) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝐿b (3,12)
−1 0 6 −6
A B A B = A B, hence
0 1 5 5 3 0 3 9
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝑃(6,5) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝑄b (−6,5) A B A B = A B, hence
0 3 4 12
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝑀(3,4) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝑀b (9,12)
−1 0 6 −6
A B A B = A B, hence
0 1 7 7 3 0 1 3
tu vwxxyz {|}{ A B A B = A B, hence
𝑃(6,7) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝑅b (−6,7) 0 3 6 18
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝑁(1,6) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝑁 b (3,18)
Under the reflection in the Y-axis, triangle PQR is
mapped onto triangle 𝑃′𝑄′𝑅′ where Under the reflection in the Y-axis, triangle LMN is
𝑃b (−3,5), 𝑄b (−6,5) and 𝑅b (−6,7). mapped onto triangle 𝐿′𝑀′𝑁′ where
𝐿b (3,12), 𝑀b (9,12) and 𝑁 b (3,18).
Example 13

The triangle ABC has coordinates A(2, 4), B(7, 4) and

C(2, 7). Determine the coordinates of the image of
triangle ABC under a rotation about the origin Matrices for combined transformations
through 1800
It is possible to obtain a single matrix to describe a
Solution combination of two transformations. Once we know
Matrix for rotation about the origin through 1800 is the 2×2 matrix for each of the transformations we
−1 0 can multiply them to obtain this single matrix using
A B.
0 −1 the following rule.
To calculate the image of P, Q and R under the
rotation, pre-multiply as follows: If A and B are both 2×2 matrices representing two
geometric transformations, then the matrix product
−1 0 2 −2 AB represents the combined transformation B
A B A B = A B, hence
0 −1 4 −4 followed by A.
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝐴(3,5) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝐴b (−2, −4)
−1 0 7 −7 Example 14
A B A B = A B, hence
0 −1 4 −4 The transformation, M is a reflection in the line 𝑦 =
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝐵(6,5) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝐵 b (−7, −5) −𝑥. The transformation N, is an enlargement, centre
−1 0 2 −2 origin, k= 2.
A B A B = A B, hence
0 −1 7 −7 (i) Write down the 2×2 matrices for M and N.
tu vwxxyz {|}{
𝐶(6,7) ~⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯€ 𝐶 b (−2, −7) (ii) The matrix, P represents the combined
transformation, M followed by N. Determine the
Under the reflection in the Y-axis, triangle PQR is matrix P.
mapped onto triangle 𝐴′𝐵′𝐶′ where (iii) Determine the coordinates of the image of (−3,
𝐴b (−2, −4), 𝐵 b (−7, −5) and 𝐶 b (−2, −7). 4) under P.

172
Solution Solution – Example 15, part (iii)
(i) M is a reflection in the line 𝑦 = −𝑥, The transformation M represents a rotation of 90º
0 −1 clockwise about O. This is deduced by applying
M= A B.
−1 0 geometrical properties of rotation of having
N is an enlargement, center origin, 𝑘 = 2, knowledge of the matrix for the rotation.
2 0
N=A B.
0 2
(3, 5)
(ii) The combined transformation, M followed by
N is NM.
2 0 0 −1
𝑃 = 𝑁𝑀 = A BA B
0 2 −1 0
0 −2
= A B (5, −3)
−2 0

(iii) The image of (−3, 4) under P:

0 −2 −3 −8 Alternative Method for Example 15 Part (i)
A BA B = A B
−2 0 4 6
The image of (−3, 4) is (−8, 6). M ´V = V¢ Simultaneous equations for
æ a b ö æ 3ö æ 5 ö 𝑉(3, 5) ⟶ 𝑉 b (5, −3)
çç ÷÷ çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷
Example 15 è c d ø è 5 ø è - 3ø 3𝑎 + 5𝑏 = 5 … (1)
𝑎 𝑏
Under a matrix transformation, 𝑀 = A B , the æ 3a + 5b ö æ 5 ö 3𝑐 + 5𝑑 = −3 … (2)
𝑐 𝑑 \ çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷
points 𝑉 and 𝑊 are mapped onto 𝑉′ and 𝑊′ such è 3c + 5d ø è - 3 ø
that: 𝑀 × 𝑊 = 𝑊′ Simultaneous equations for
𝑉(3, 5) ⟶ 𝑉 b (5, −3) æa b ö æ7ö æ 2 ö 𝑊(7, 2) ⟶ 𝑉 b (2, −7)
𝑊(7, 2) ⟶ 𝑉 b (2, −7) çç ÷÷ çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷ 7𝑎 + 2𝑏 = 2 … (3)
è c d ø è 2ø è - 7ø
(i) Determine the values of 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐, and 𝑑. 7𝑐 + 2𝑑 = −7 … (4)
(ii) State the coordinates of Z such that æ 7a + 2b ö æ 2 ö
\ çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷
𝑍(𝑥, 𝑦) ⟶ 𝑉 b (5, 1) under the è 7c + 2d ø è - 7 ø
transformation, 𝑀. Consider equations (1) and (3)
(iii) Describe fully the geometric transformation, Equation (1) × 7 21𝑎 + 35𝑏 = 35 … (5)
𝑀 Equation (3) × −3 −21𝑎 − 6𝑏 = −6 … (6)
Equation (5) + (6) 29𝑏 = 29
𝑏 = 1
Solution- parts (i) and (ii) Substitute 𝑏 = 1 into equation (1)
(i) We note that under the transformation, 𝑀 a 3a + 5(1) = 5
point reverses its coordinates and changes the sign
of the y coordinate. By inspection, the matrix for 3a = 0
this transformation M is derived by consideration \a = 0
of the following products: Consider equations (2) and (4)
0 1 3 5 Equation (2) × 7 21𝑐 + 35𝑑 = −21 … (7)
A BA B = A B
−1 0 5 −3 Equation (4) × −3 −21𝑐 − 6𝑑 = 21 … (8)
0 1 7 2 29𝑑 = 0
A BA B = A B Equation (7) + (8)
−1 0 2 −7 𝑑 = 0
𝑎 𝑏 0 1 Substitute 𝑑 = 0 into equation (2)
𝑀=A
𝑐 𝑑
B=A
−1 0
B 3c + 5(0) = -3
3c = -3
(ii) (𝑥, 𝑦) ⟶ 𝑉 b (5, 1)
0 1 𝑥 5 \ c = -1
A BA B = A B
−1 0 𝑦 1 Therefore,
𝑦 5
A B=A B æ a b ö æ 0 1ö
−𝑥 1 çç ÷÷ = çç ÷÷
𝑦 = 5, 𝑥 = −1 è c d ø è -1 0ø
(𝑥, 𝑦) = (−1, 5)

173