What are matrices, and in what life situations do they apply, and how?

Question

In my algebra 2 class my teacher is starting to teach us the System of Matrix and Matrices or something like that...I don't get it.

Answer 1

In mathematics, a matrix (plural matrices) is a rectangular table of numbers or, more generally, a table consisting of abstract quantities that can be added and multiplied. Matrices are used to describe linear equations, keep track of the coefficients of linear transformations and to record data that depend on two parameters. Matrices can be added, multiplied, and decomposed in various ways, making them a key concept in linear algebra and matrix theory.

Answer 2

Matrices are used in many types of engineering design. You can write equations of heat flow and temperatures on spacecraft parts and use matrices to study it's thermal response.

They are used in weather models, structural models. They are used extensively in the process of animating movies.

What you'll be learning is a convenient way to organize linear equations. Then by looking at the properties of the matrices you can tell what kind of solutions you can get.