๐Ÿงฎ

Matrix Addition and Subtraction

Aug 25, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the basics of matrix addition and subtraction, including requirements for these operations, worked examples, and key properties of matrix addition.

Matrix Addition and Subtraction

  • To add or subtract matrices, they must have the same dimensions.
  • The result of addition or subtraction has the same size as the original matrices.
  • Addition is performed by adding corresponding entries from each matrix.
  • Subtraction is performed by subtracting corresponding entries in order (A - B โ‰  B - A).
  • Matrix addition or subtraction is not possible if matrices have different sizes.

Example Problems

  • D - C: Both are 2ร—3 matrices; subtract corresponding entries to get the resulting 2ร—3 matrix.
  • C - B: Not possible; C is 2ร—3, B is 2ร—2 (different sizes).
  • A + B: Both are 2ร—2 matrices (with variables possible); add corresponding entries for the 2ร—2 result.

Using a Calculator for Matrix Operations

  • Numeric matrices can be entered into a calculator using the matrix menu.
  • Enter matrices under โ€˜Edit,โ€™ specify size, input values, then perform operations using the โ€˜Namesโ€™ menu.
  • Matrix operations with variables cannot be done on a calculator and must be performed by hand.

Properties of Matrix Addition

  • Commutative Property: A + B = B + A (only for addition, not subtraction).
  • Associative Property: (A + B) + C = A + (B + C), as long as matrices are the same size.
  • Identity Property: Adding a zero matrix (all zeros) of the same size does not change the matrix (A + 0 = A).
  • Inverse Property: Each matrix has an additive inverse (all entries have opposite signs); adding a matrix to its inverse gives the zero matrix.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Matrix โ€” a rectangular array of numbers arranged in rows and columns.
  • Dimensions โ€” the number of rows and columns in a matrix (e.g., 2ร—3).
  • Zero Matrix (Additive Identity) โ€” a matrix with all entries equal to zero.
  • Additive Inverse โ€” a matrix where each entry is the opposite sign of the original.
  • Commutative Property โ€” order of addition does not affect the result.
  • Associative Property โ€” grouping of addition does not affect the result.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review and practice addition and subtraction of matrices with same and different sizes.
  • Complete assigned problems from pages 2โ€“4 of your lecture notes.