Linear Algebra

How to solve

An invertible 2×2 matrix undoes itself via A⁻¹ = (1/det) [[d, −b], [−c, a]]. First ensure det = ad − bc ≠ 0; these drills ask for the (1,1) entry of that inverse as a simplified fraction.

Steps

  1. Compute det = ad − bc and confirm it is nonzero.
  2. Form (1/det) [[d, −b], [−c, a]].
  3. Report the (1,1) entry d/det in lowest terms.

Example

For A = [[2, 1], [1, 2]], find the (1,1) entry of A⁻¹.

  1. det = 2 · 2 − 1 · 1 = 3.
  2. A⁻¹ = (1/3) [[2, −1], [−1, 2]].
  3. (1,1) entry = 2/3.

Answer: 2/3

How to type answers

  • Enter a simplified fraction like 3/5 or -1/2
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