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Dependence and independence of two vectors

Mathematics — first biennium · Lesson

Biennium · Scientific profile

Dependence and independence of two vectors

In the plane two non-zero vectors are dependent when one is a scalar multiple of the other. Equivalently, the determinant of their components is zero.

Key idea
Formula matematica
Similar example
Formula matematica

Prerequisites: Linear combinations

Goal: Recognize when two plane vectors are scalar multiples and connect dependence with a zero determinant.

What you need to know before the exercises

In this lesson: Recognize when two plane vectors are scalar multiples and connect dependence with a zero determinant.

New concept: Two plane vectors are linearly dependent when one is a scalar multiple of the other: they have the same direction, possibly opposite orientation. If neither is a multiple of the other, they are linearly independent.

How to proceed: One component ratio is not enough: the factor must be the same in both directions. The determinant provides one combined check.

You can already assume: Linear combinations.

Geometry view

Read the diagram

SVG
Geometry diagram for the exercise The arrows lie on the same direction: one is a scalar multiple of the other. O u v xyu=(4,0)v=(-12,0)

The arrows lie on the same direction: one is a scalar multiple of the other.

Try it now

Check whether the same scale factor works for both components and verify with the determinant.

Guided

Completed exercises: 0/5 · Correct on first attempt: 0

How to reason

One component ratio is not enough: the factor must be the same in both directions. The determinant provides one combined check.

Data / situation: u=(4,0), v=(-12,0).

Formula matematica
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