beautypg.com

Additional linear algebra topics, Eigenvalues and eigenvectors, To compute the eigenvalues for a square matrix – HP 48g Graphing Calculator User Manual

Page 184

Attention! The text in this document has been recognized automatically. To view the original document, you can use the "Original mode".

background image

To compute the row-reduced echelon form of a matrix:

1

.

2

,

14

Enter the matrix onto the stack. If you are attempting to solve a

system of linear equations, the matrix should be the augmented
matrix representation of the system (see discussion above).
Optional: Set flag —54 if you do not want “tiny” elements replaced

with zero during the computation: Press

MODES)

F L F i G 54

m S F . “Tiny” elements, which can be generated due to

roundoff errors during computation, are those elements that are less
than 1 x times the size of the largest element in their column.

Unless you set flag —54, the HP 48 replaces any “tiny” elements

with zero.

Press

f'MTH

) M H

T

R

F fi C T R

R R E F .

Additional Linear Algebra Topics

The HP 48 offers a selection of other linear algebra commands that
give you additional problem-solving power and flexibility.

Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors

A square (n x n) matrix A is said to have an eigenvalue X and a

corresponding eigenvector x if Ax = Ax.

Eigenvalues are the roots of the characteristic equation,

det(A — AI) = 0, which is a polynomial of degree n. Thus, A has n

eigenvalues, although they are not always distinct. Each eigenvalue
has a corresponding eigenvector.

The HP 48 allows you to compute either the eigenvalues only (a

faster computation) or both the eigenvalues and their corresponding
eigenvectors.

To

compute the

eigenvalues

for

a square matrix:

1. Enter the square (n x n) matrix onto the stack.

2. Press fivrfHl

eigenvalues.

Mfl'l R fNXT) E G V L to compute a vector of n

14-20 Matrices and Linear Aigebra

This manual is related to the following products: