Proving Linear Dependence of 3 Vectors with 3 Unknowns

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In summary, the conversation is discussing how to prove that three given vectors are dependent. The method of using three equations with three unknowns is mentioned, but the speaker is unsure of how to proceed as the constants should not equal 0 in order to prove dependence. Alternatively, the option of evaluating the determinant or using row reduction to determine linear dependence is also suggested.
  • #1
lo2
I have these 3 vectors. And I have to prove that they are dependent.

a=(-1,7,-4)

b=(3,5,-6)

a=(15,-1,-12)

I have tried to make 3 equtations with 3 unknows and the solve it. But I just get that the constants should be 0, what they should not be in order to prove they are dependent?
 
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  • #2
So [tex] A = \begin{bmatrix}
-1&7&4 \\

\end{bmatrix}[/tex]

So [tex] B = \begin{bmatrix}
3&5&-6 \\

\end{bmatrix}[/tex]

So [tex] C = \begin{bmatrix}
15&-1&-12 \\

\end{bmatrix}[/tex]

For the vectors to be linearly dependent, [tex] \left| \begin{array} {ccc} -1 & 7 & 4 \\ 3 & 5& -6 \\ 15 & -1 & -12 \\ \end{array} \right|= 0[/tex]
 
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  • #3
Alternatively, if you don't like evaluating determinants you could try row reduction to the echelon form (obtaining a final row of zeros would indicate LD).
 

FAQ: Proving Linear Dependence of 3 Vectors with 3 Unknowns

What does it mean to prove linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns?

Proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns means to determine whether the three vectors can be expressed as linear combinations of each other. In other words, if one of the vectors can be written as a combination of the other two, then the three vectors are linearly dependent.

Why is it important to prove linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns?

Proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns is important because it allows us to understand the relationship between the three vectors and how they are connected. It also helps us to determine if one of the vectors is redundant or unnecessary.

What are the methods used to prove linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns?

There are a few methods that can be used to prove linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns, including the row reduction method and the determinant method. These methods involve performing mathematical operations on the vectors to determine if they can be expressed as linear combinations of each other.

What is the role of the determinant in proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns?

The determinant is a key factor in proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns. If the determinant of the matrix formed by the three vectors is equal to zero, then the three vectors are linearly dependent. If the determinant is not equal to zero, then the vectors are linearly independent.

What are some real-world applications of proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns?

Proving linear dependence of 3 vectors with 3 unknowns has many real-world applications, including in physics, engineering, and computer graphics. It can be used to solve systems of equations, determine the stability of a structure, and create 3D models and animations.

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