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key term - ~

Definition

The tilde symbol (~) is a mathematical operator used in various contexts, including systems of linear equations and Gaussian elimination. In the context of solving systems with Gaussian elimination, the tilde represents the transformation of the original system of equations into an equivalent system with a reduced row echelon form (RREF).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The tilde symbol (~) indicates that the original system of equations has been transformed into an equivalent system using Gaussian elimination.
  2. Gaussian elimination involves performing a series of elementary row operations to convert the coefficient matrix of the system into reduced row echelon form (RREF).
  3. The RREF form of the system reveals the solutions, including the number of solutions (unique, infinite, or no solution) and the values of the variables.
  4. The tilde symbol is used to denote the transformed system, which is equivalent to the original system but in a simpler, more manageable form.
  5. Mastering the use of the tilde symbol and understanding its role in Gaussian elimination is crucial for solving systems of linear equations effectively.

Review Questions

  • Explain the purpose of the tilde symbol (~) in the context of solving systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination.
    • The tilde symbol (~) is used to indicate that the original system of linear equations has been transformed into an equivalent system through the process of Gaussian elimination. This transformation involves performing a series of elementary row operations, such as row swapping, row scaling, and row addition, to convert the coefficient matrix of the system into a reduced row echelon form (RREF). The RREF form of the system reveals important information about the solutions, including the number of solutions (unique, infinite, or no solution) and the values of the variables. The tilde symbol serves as a visual cue to differentiate the transformed, simplified system from the original system, making it easier to understand and work with the solutions.
  • Describe the role of elementary row operations in the Gaussian elimination process and how they are related to the tilde symbol (~).
    • The tilde symbol (~) is closely tied to the elementary row operations performed during Gaussian elimination. These operations, which include row swapping, row scaling, and row addition, are used to transform the original system of linear equations into an equivalent system with a reduced row echelon form (RREF). The tilde symbol indicates that these elementary row operations have been applied, resulting in a simplified system that is easier to solve. The RREF form of the system, denoted by the tilde, reveals the solutions and the number of solutions (unique, infinite, or no solution). Understanding the connection between the tilde symbol and the elementary row operations is crucial for successfully navigating the Gaussian elimination process and interpreting the final solutions.
  • Analyze the significance of the tilde symbol (~) in the context of solving systems of linear equations and how it relates to the concept of equivalent systems.
    • The tilde symbol (~) plays a pivotal role in the context of solving systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination. It represents the transformation of the original system into an equivalent system, where the coefficient matrix has been converted into a reduced row echelon form (RREF). This transformation, achieved through a series of elementary row operations, preserves the solutions of the original system, meaning that the transformed system has the same solutions as the original. The tilde symbol serves as a visual cue to indicate that the system has been simplified and is now in a more manageable form, making it easier to identify the number of solutions and the values of the variables. Understanding the significance of the tilde symbol and its connection to the concept of equivalent systems is essential for effectively solving systems of linear equations using Gaussian elimination.