The determinant function is a scalar value that can be computed from the elements of a square matrix and provides important information about the matrix's properties. It can indicate whether a matrix is invertible, with a non-zero determinant signaling that an inverse exists, while a zero determinant implies that the matrix does not have full rank. This function plays a crucial role in various mathematical contexts, such as solving linear equations, finding eigenvalues, and understanding transformations in geometry.
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