Find the inverse of the general 2x2 matrix A= ([a, b],[c, d]) when does this inverse exist?

This is a typical further maths question, doing it correctly is a matter of carrying out a two-step process. 

Start by finding the determinant of the matrix,

det(A)=ad-bc

Then swap the entries a d and negate the other entries. After dividing by the determinant the inverse of A is given.

A^-1=1/(ad-bc)([d -b],[-c, a]).

LR

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Prove that (AB)^-1 = B^-1 A^-1


When and how do I use proof by induction?


Integrate xcos(x) with respect to x


How do I find and plot the roots of a polynomial with complex roots on an Argand diagram? e.g. f(z) =z^3 -3z^2 + z + 5 where one of the roots is known to be 2+i