Matrix Fundamentals

A matrix is a rectangular array of data.

The dimensions are listed as row x column, or n x m, where n represents the number of rows and m represents the number of columns. Be careful that you know the difference between a row and a column - and don't mix them up!

*Important Note: Rows go across, and columns go up and down.

Example #1: Look below to see how to write the dimensions of a matrix.

Make sure that you are careful not to write (4 x 2). The order matters! It must always be (row x column), not the other way around!

Example #2: Look at the additional examples below for practice.

Matrices are named with capital letters; there elements are named with lowercase letters and subscripts. The first number of the subscript is the row, and the second number is the column (again, think row x column).

Look at the image below to learn how to identify elements within matrices.

Many operations can be performed with matrices: addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, multiplication, inverses, and more.

Now that you know matrix fundamentals, you can move onto more interesting problems.

You may also want to return to GradeA's free algebra help or vist the homepage for other free math help resources..