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There are many ways to multiply matrices. We can multiply them by other matrices, identity matrices, determinants, and much more. But what happens when we multiply a matrix by a real number? Is this even possible? Why would we want to do this? Let''s find out:
When we multiply a matrix by a real number, we call this "scalar multiplication." The real number in this operation is called a "scalar." When we carry out this operation, we multiply each element in our matrix by the given scalar. Remember that elements are the numbers that lie inside the matrix.
We can write this as:
And for the matrix :
As we can see, the concept is really quite simple. If we can do basic arithmetic multiplication, scalar multiplication shouldn''t be too difficult.
Now let''s try a scalar multiplication operation using the skills that we have just learned. Consider the following matrix:
What happens if we multiply this matrix by the scalar 4? In other words, what is the value of 4A?
We need to multiply each element in our matrix by the scalar 4:
We are left with:
As we can see, scalar multiplication operates based on the same basic principles of arithmetic multiplication. However, there are a few rules or "properties" that we must keep in mind. In this set of rules, we can assume that A and B are matrices. represents the zero matrices, while p and q both represent scalars:
Technically speaking, scalar multiplication and matrix multiplication are two different things. Although both operations involve multiplying matrices, there are different rules and properties that apply.
Scalar multiplication involves multiplying a matrix by a scalar (a single real or complex number). Each entry of the matrix is multiplied by this scalar. The operation is straightforward and shares many properties with ordinary number multiplication, such as associativity, commutativity, and distributivity.
Matrix multiplication, on the other hand, entails multiplying two matrices together. This operation is more complex and involves a series of multiplications and additions between the elements of the matrices. Furthermore, matrix multiplication doesn''t always obey the same rules as scalar multiplication or standard arithmetic multiplication. Notably, matrix multiplication is not generally commutative, meaning that the order in which you multiply matrices matters: for two matrices and , it''s not always the case that .
It''s also worth mentioning that many operations in linear algebra and matrix theory involve both scalar and matrix multiplications. For example, when calculating the inverse of a matrix, one may multiply a scalar such as by a matrix.
Understanding both scalar multiplication and matrix multiplication is key to a range of applications, from solving systems of linear equations to transformations in computer graphics and data analysis in statistics.
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Scalar multiplication involves many familiar concepts, but it also requires students to learn new rules and properties. A smart way to memorize these new concepts is to work alongside a tutor in a 1-on-1 environment. A tutor can help your student memorize concepts using strategies that match their learning style. For example, a verbal learner can memorize the properties of scalar multiplication through rhymes and acronyms, while a visual learner can memorize them with flashcards. Tutors can also answer questions that your student might not have had the chance to ask during class. Reach out to our Educational Directors today to learn more, and remember: Varsity Tutors can match your student with a suitable math professional.