A 2×2 matrix has eigenvalues -1 and 5. What are the trace and determinant?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. trace 4, determinant -5

  1. Step 1: The trace equals the sum of the eigenvalues and the determinant equals their product. Step 2. Sum = 4, product = -5. Answer: trace 4, determinant -5. Why not the others: trace -5, determinant 4 is what you get if you swap the two quantities. trace -6, determinant -5 is what you get if you subtract the eigenvalues. trace 4, determinant 4 is what you get if you use the sum twice.

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