1. ## Inconsistency matrix question...

Ok.. Have a look at this problem and then look at the second post:

2. ## Re: Inconsistency matrix question...

Can anyone explain the second examiners solution? I understand the first and third approach but what is happening in the second method below, In particular what does trianglex, triangle y , trianglez mean in the second line of the solution i have circled in red?

3. ## Re: Inconsistency matrix question...

The " $\Delta$" is, of course the determinant. Since that is 0 it follows that there cannot be a unique solution. But I think when they say "Showig $\Delta= 0$ and thinking this is it" they the mean that alone does NOT show that the system is inconsistent- there might be an infinite number of solutions. I do think that "and $\Delta_x$, $\Delta_y$, $\Delta_z$= 0" is misleading. In order to have the system inconsistent, you must show that $\Delta= 0$ and that at least one of $\Delta_x$, $\Delta_y$, $\Delta_z$ is NOT 0.

I am rather disappointed that the most direct demonstration is not given:

If you add the second and third equations, the "y" and "-y" terms cancel leaving 11x+ 11z= 37.

Multiplying the second equation by 2 gives 6x+ 2y- 8z= 14 and adding the first equation to that gives 7x+ 7z= 14. Do you see why those two equations are impossible?

4. ## Re: Inconsistency matrix question...

Sorry but i still don't know what Det(x), det(y), det(z) actually mean? I know how to work out the det of matrix but never come across det(x) etc?
How do you actually work that out of a matrix?