Question 23
Matrices and DeterminantsDetermine x + y if (2 −3; −1 4)(x; y) = (−1; 8)
(matrices written row by row, rows separated by ';')
- A.3
- B.4
- C.7
- D.12
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: C (7)
Explanation
The matrix equation gives 2x − 3y = −1 and −x + 4y = 8. From the second, x = 4y − 8; substituting, 5y − 16 = −1, so y = 3 and x = 4. Hence x + y = 7.