Mathematics
Grade 10
15 min
Add and subtract matrices
Add and subtract matrices
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Define a matrix and identify its dimensions.
Determine if two matrices can be added or subtracted based on their dimensions.
Accurately perform matrix addition on two or more compatible matrices.
Accurately perform matrix subtraction on two compatible matrices.
Solve simple matrix equations involving addition and subtraction to find unknown elements.
Apply the properties of the zero matrix in addition and subtraction.
How do video games keep track of player stats for multiple teams in a tournament? š® They use organized tables of numbers called matrices!
In this tutorial, you will learn what matrices are and how to perform two fundamental operations on them: addition and subtraction. Mastering this skill is the first step to understanding how matrices ar...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
MatrixA rectangular array of numbers, symbols, or expressions, arranged in rows and columns.Matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & -1 \\ 0 & 5 \end{bmatrix}
ElementEach individual number or entry within a matrix.In the matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & -1 \\ 0 & 5 \end{bmatrix}, the number 5 is an element.
Dimensions (or Order)The size of a matrix, given as the number of rows by the number of columns (rows x columns).The matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & -1 \\ 0 & 5 \end{bmatrix} has dimensions 2x2 because it has 2 rows and 2 columns.
RowA horizontal line of elements in a matrix.In matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & -1 \\ 0 & 5 \end{bmatrix}, the first row is [2, -1].
ColumnA vertical line of elements in a matrix.In matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 2 & -1...
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Core Formulas
Condition for Addition and Subtraction
Matrices A and B can be added or subtracted only if they have the exact same dimensions (m x n).
Before attempting to add or subtract, always check if the number of rows and columns are identical for both matrices. If they are not, the operation is undefined.
Matrix Addition
If A = [a_{ij}] and B = [b_{ij}] are m x n matrices, then their sum A + B is the m x n matrix C = [c_{ij}] where c_{ij} = a_{ij} + b_{ij}.
To add two matrices, you add the corresponding elementsāthe elements that are in the same row and column position.
Matrix Subtraction
If A = [a_{ij}] and B = [b_{ij}] are m x n matrices, then their difference A - B is the m x n matrix D = [d_{ij}] where d_{ij} = a_{ij} - b_{ij}.
To subtract matrix B from matrix A, you sub...
4 more steps in this tutorial
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Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Easy
What are the dimensions of the matrix A = \begin{bmatrix} 4 & 9 & 2 \\ 1 & 0 & 5 \end{bmatrix}?
A.3x2
B.2x3
C.6
D.5
Easy
Under what condition can two matrices, A and B, be added together to find A + B?
A.They must both be square matrices.
B.The number of columns in A must equal the number of rows in B.
C.They must have the exact same dimensions.
D.They must contain the same number of negative elements.
Easy
Find the sum: \begin{bmatrix} 5 \\ 2 \end{bmatrix} + \begin{bmatrix} 3 \\ 6 \end{bmatrix}
A.\begin{bmatrix} 8 \\ 8 \end{bmatrix}
B.\begin{bmatrix} 8 & 8 \end{bmatrix}
C.\begin{bmatrix} 16 \end{bmatrix}
D.The operation is undefined.
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