Matrix Meaning

Explore the meaning behind the algebra and geometry of matrices with these 10 individual problems.

Nine Eigen

Stage: 5 Challenge Level:

Why do this problem?

This problem asks a series of questions designed to provoke students' thinking about matrices which leave vectors fixed, and the properties that such matrices and vectors would have.

Possible approach

It may be worthwhile to start with some preliminary work about matrices in three dimensions. Students could find some examples of $3 \times 3$ matrices which represent simple rotations and reflections, which could be used in answering the problem.

The questions divide neatly into three sections - questions 1-3, 4-6 and 7-9. Students could tackle these questions in those three sections, perhaps working with a partner, and feed back ideas to the rest of the class after each section is answered.

For each section of questions, ask students to think about what they are being asked to do, use their intuition to make any initial comments, then think about the geometry of the situation and finally use some examples to support their thoughts algebraically.

Key questions

What can you say about a rotation that leaves the direction of a vector unchanged?

What can you say about a reflection that leaves the direction of a vector unchanged?

Possible extension

Fix Me or Crush Me investigates matrices which fix certain vectors and vectors which are fixed by certain matrices.

Possible support

Matrix Meaning provides some simpler questions about the possible effects of different types of $3 \times 3$ matrices.

Mathematical modelling. Matrices. Vectors. Matrix transformations. Vector products. Scalar products. biology. Investigations. Maths Supporting SET. Eigenvalues and eigenvectors.

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