Example 1.  Use the determinant method to find the line through the points (1,4) and {5,3).

Solution 1.

The matrix  A  for the system of equations is:

 

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_4.gif]

Enter the points (1,4) and (5,3) and put them into rows 2 and 3 of the matrix A:

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_5.gif]


[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_6.gif]

Form the equation for the line by setting the determinant of  A  equal to zero.

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_7.gif]


[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_8.gif]

Then graph the line.

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_9.gif]


[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_10.gif]

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_11.gif]

[Graphics:../Images/ConicFitMod_gr_12.gif]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(c) John H. Mathews 2004