Multiplication of Matrices

Multiplying two matrices together involves a few more steps than adding or subtracting matrices. Just like in addition and subtraction, not all matrices can be multiplied. There is a simple test that you can run to see if the matrices can be multiplied.

Suppose you want to multiply two matrices together that have dimensions 2 x 3 and 3 x 1. In order for these matrices to have a product, the inner dimensions must be the same.

The outer dimensions will tell you what kind of matrix will make up the product. In this case when you multiply a 2 x 3 matrix and a 3 x 1 matrix the product will be a 2 x 1 matrix.

Next: Section A, page 12

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