Skill: Determine the transpose of a matrix

Explanation and Free Practice Resources

The transpose of a finite matrix with real entries is formed by interchanging its rows and columns: an entry in row ii, column jj moves to row jj, column ii, so an m×nm \times n matrix becomes an n×mn \times m matrix. This preserves every entry while changing its position; abstract generalizations beyond ordinary matrices are not included.

Detailed Explanation: Determine the transpose of a matrix

To find the transpose of a matrix, interchange its rows and columns. Each entry in row ii, column jj moves to row jj, column ii. The matrix’s dimensions switch from m×nm \times n to n×mn \times m.

For example, find the transpose of

A=[147258].A=\begin{bmatrix} 1 & 4 & 7\\ 2 & 5 & 8 \end{bmatrix}.
  1. The first row, [1  4  7][1\ \ 4\ \ 7], becomes the first column.
  2. The second row, [2  5  8][2\ \ 5\ \ 8], becomes the second column.

Therefore,

AT=[124578].A^T=\begin{bmatrix} 1 & 2\\ 4 & 5\\ 7 & 8 \end{bmatrix}.

The original matrix is 2×32 \times 3, and its transpose is 3×23 \times 2. All the entries stay the same; only their positions change.

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Matrices - Transpose (3x3) - Matrix to Answer


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