A 2×2 matrix has eigenvalues -2 and 5. What are the trace and determinant?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. trace 3, determinant -10

  1. Step 1: The trace equals the sum of the eigenvalues and the determinant equals their product. Step 2. Sum = 3, product = -10. Answer: trace 3, determinant -10. Why not the others: trace -10, determinant 3 is what you get if you swap the two quantities. trace -7, determinant -10 is what you get if you subtract the eigenvalues. trace 3, determinant 3 is what you get if you use the sum twice.

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