Question

Ok, i want to discuss a problem i have ... if it fits here ... =] i'm a physics student, and i have problem when it comes to solve 3-5 variables equation systems, usually i don't know what to do first and how to find the easy way out ... and those type of problems occur a-lot in physics .. someone here have any idea what can i do to get better at this ? because usually the problems in the books don't contain that kind of nasty algebra, but our test do =]

Answer 1

if it's the equations are all linear then you can use a number of matrix techniques

Answer 2

Physics \(\implies\) Turing

Answer 3

it's a math question though

Answer 4

Numerical analysis?

Answer 5

yes, it's more of a math problem .. the physics part is the one i'm good at =] can you refer me to some information about matrix techniques ? =] thanks again !

Answer 6

Gauss-Siedal

Answer 7

Gauss-Jordon

Answer 8

Use Mathematica.

Answer 9

haha turing will refer you to thie site http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/LinAlg/SystemsOfEqns.aspx

Answer 10

Pippa is right!
there's always gaussian elimination
http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/LinAlg/SolvingSystemsOfEqns.aspx
cramer's rule is not to bad, but you need a few more techniques to be able to take the determinant of matrices larger than 3x3 if you want to use it
http://tutorial.math.lamar.edu/Classes/LinAlg/CramersRule.aspx

Answer 11

Cool!

Answer 12

if it's more than 3 variables I mean...
then you need method of cofactors or something
so in general, study linear algebra

Answer 13

haha ! thanks guys !! i guess i should start right away ! ;] i can see the BIG difference between physics and mathmaticians every day in the university !!

Answer 14

it's physicist!