ACT Math · Matrices and vectors
Is the matrix bmatrix 4 & 6 \\ 2 & 3 bmatrix invertible?
Is the matrix invertible?
Answer and explanation
Answer: D: No, since its determinant is zero.
A square matrix is invertible exactly when its determinant is not zero. The determinant is , so the matrix is not invertible, choice D. You can also notice that the first row is twice the second row, so the rows are dependent. Choice A claims a nonzero determinant, which is false. Choice B is wrong because the matrix is square (). Choice C is wrong because positive entries do not guarantee invertibility, as this example shows. The determinant is the test.
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