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Markov Matrices

Age 14 to 18
Challenge Level Yellow star
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This problem introduces the idea of using a matrix to represent the probabilities of moving between different states, and also how these can be used to investigate long term behaviour.

The problem starts with a situation where movement is between two states, and then moves onto introducing a third state.

Students might find these Matrix Power calculators useful:

  • Matrix Power Calculator (decimal version)
  • Matrix Power Calculator (fraction version)

They will be especially useful when investigating the long term behaviour of the problem.  The decimal calculator might be more useful for this case.

The problem Pass the Parcel takes these ideas and applies them to a popular children's party game.

There are more matrix problems in this feature.

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8 Methods for Three by One

This problem in geometry has been solved in no less than EIGHT ways by a pair of students. How would you solve it? How many of their solutions can you follow? How are they the same or different? Which do you like best?

Rots and Refs

Follow hints using a little coordinate geometry, plane geometry and trig to see how matrices are used to work on transformations of the plane.

Reflect Again

Follow hints to investigate the matrix which gives a reflection of the plane in the line y=tanx. Show that the combination of two reflections in intersecting lines is a rotation.

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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