Interactive Mathematics by Kunio Mitsuma, Ph.D.

KU Interactive Mathematics

This tutorial will show you how to set up the augmented matrix for a system of linear equations and use the rref (= reduced row-echelon form) command to solve it in a single step.

What to Enter	Screen Shots
Press 2ND then MATRIX (above the x^–1 button). Then, you will see this:
Scroll right to highlight EDIT. Then, you will see this:
Press ENTER. Then, you will see this:
Suppose that we are solving the following system of linear equations:	x + y + z = 192 x – y – z = 0 x – 3z = 0
You want to enter a matrix of size 3x4. So, press 3 ENTER 4 ENTER. Then, you will see the screen on the right. Note that the fourth column is not shown due to the screen size.
As you enter a number and press ENTER, the cursor advances to the next entry. In the end, you will see this:
Scroll to bring the cursor back to the starting location. (This step is optional.)
This step is important. Press 2ND then QUIT (above the MODE button). You will return to the Home Screen.
Press 2ND then MATRIX. Then, you will see that matrix A is stored as a 3x4 matrix.
Scroll right to highlight MATH.
Scroll up to select B: rref(.
Press ENTER. Then, you will see this:
Press 2ND then MATRIX. As 1: [A] 3x4 is highlighted, press ENTER.
Press the right parenthesis ) and press ENTER.
Then, you will see this:
The system of linear equations has been solved.	(x, y, z) = (96, 64, 32)

KU Interactive Mathematics

Disclaimer • Updated September 4, 2008

Email: mitsuma@kutztown.edu
Phone: +1 (610) 462-WPJW