ABSTRACT
Determinants and matrices are systems for handling numbers in applications such as solving simultaneous equations, etc. These systems are suitable for use with computers to solve problems. A determinant is an array of numbers, called elements, arranged in columns and rows. These numbers multiply out according to given rules to produce a single final answer. A determinant, therefore, represents an arithmetic or algebraic number. Determinants have the advantage that rows and columns may be changed in certain ways so as to alter the value of the determinant in a prescribed way or to leave it unchanged. This chapter describes the solution of simultaneous equations by Cramer’s method. A matrix is an array of numbers which does not reduce to a single figure through internal multiplication. The chapter discusses special matrices such as square matrix, diagonal matrix, unit matrix, transpose matrix, adjoint matrix, and inverse matrix.
