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 - 1.2 Exercises - Page 22: 22

Answer

a. False b. False c. True d. True e. True

Work Step by Step

a. False, the reduced echelon form is unique, but there can be many echelon forms. Here is a trivial counterexample, showing two row echelon forms of the same matrix: $$ \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 & 4\\ 0 & 1 & 3 \end{bmatrix} \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 2 & 7 \\ 0 & 1 & 3 \end{bmatrix} $$ b. False, the reduced row echelon form is unique and thus so are the pivot positions. c. True, by the definition of the forward phase of row reduction. d. True, because if there are free variables, there can be infinite solutions (assuming the domain of is $\mathbb{R}$). e. True, by definition.
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.