Writing a system of equations as an augmented matrix is a compact and organized way to represent the coefficients and constants from the system of linear equations. This is particularly useful for solving systems using matrix methods like Gaussian elimination or Gauss-Jordan elimination.

Steps to Write a System of Equations as an Augmented Matrix:

1. Write the system of equations in standard form: Each equation should have the variables on the left side and constants on the right side. $a_1x + b_1y + c_1z = d_1$ $a_2x + b_2y + c_2z = d_2$ $a_3x + b_3y + c_3z = d_3$

2. Extract the coefficients of the variables: Form a matrix where each row consists of the coefficients of the variables from each equation. The last column consists of the constants on the right-hand side of the equations.

3. Construct the augmented matrix: Combine the matrix of coefficients with the column of constants. This is the augmented matrix.

   For example, consider the system of equations: $2x + 3y + z = 5$ $4x + y - z = 3$ $-2x + 2y + 3z = -1$

   The augmented matrix will be:

   2 & 3 & 1 & | & 5 \\ 4 & 1 & -1 & | & 3 \\ -2 & 2 & 3 & | & -1 \end{pmatrix}$$ Here, the vertical bar (|) separates the matrix of coefficients from the column of constants.

Explanation:

• Rows: Each row corresponds to one equation.
• Columns: The first few columns correspond to the coefficients of the variables in the equations, and the last column corresponds to the constants.
• Use: This format makes it easier to apply matrix operations for solving systems of linear equations.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

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Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

1. How can you solve a system of equations using Gaussian elimination?
2. What are the advantages of using augmented matrices in solving systems of linear equations?
3. How do you interpret the solution of a system from its reduced row echelon form?
4. How can you handle systems with no solution or infinitely many solutions using augmented matrices?
5. How does the size of the augmented matrix change for larger systems of equations?

Tip: Always double-check the accuracy of your matrix entries, as even a small mistake in the coefficients can lead to incorrect solutions!