Matrix and Its Computer-Based
Applications
1. Introduction to Matrices
Definition: A matrix is a rectangular array of numbers arranged in rows and columns.
Notation: A matrix is usually denoted by uppercase letters like A, B, C etc.
Types of Matrices:
- Row matrix
- Column matrix
- Square matrix
- Diagonal matrix
- Identity matrix
Basic Operations:
- Addition, Subtraction
- Scalar Multiplication
- Matrix Multiplication
- Transpose
- Inverse (if exists)
2. Applications of Matrices in Computers
Data Representation: In graphics, images are stored as matrices of pixel values.
Transformation in Graphics: Rotation, scaling, and translation of images using matrix
multiplication.
Computer Algorithms: Solving linear equations, neural networks (weights are matrices).
Cryptography: Encryption algorithms often use matrices.
3. Projection of 3D Images
What is 3D Projection? It's the process of mapping three-dimensional points to a two-
dimensional plane.
Use of Matrices: 3D points are represented as column vectors. Transformation matrices
rotate, scale, and project these vectors to simulate 3D views.
Types of Projections:
- Orthographic Projection
- Perspective Projection
Example:
A 3D point P = (x, y, z) can be projected onto a 2D screen using a projection matrix:
[ x' ] [ 1 0 a ] [ x ]
[ y' ] = [ 0 1 b ] × [ y ]
[0 0 1] [z]
Where a and b depend on the type of projection.
4. Google Page Ranking Algorithm (PageRank)
What is PageRank? An algorithm used by Google Search to rank web pages in search results.
Matrix Involvement: Web pages are nodes, and links between them form a link matrix.
The matrix is stochastic (columns sum to 1).
How it works: Each page is assigned a rank. Repeatedly multiply the link matrix by a rank
vector until it converges.
Formula:
PR(A) = (1 - d)/N + d × (PR(T1)/C(T1) + ... + PR(Tn)/C(Tn))
Where:
- PR(A): PageRank of page A
- d: Damping factor (usually 0.85)
- Ti: Pages that link to A
- C(Ti): Number of outbound links on page Ti
5. Real-Life Examples & Visualization
3D Image Projection: Used in animation, CAD software, and video games.
Google PageRank: Improves search result accuracy and relevance.
Other Applications: Machine learning (e.g., image recognition), social network analysis
6. Conclusion
Matrices are fundamental in various computer applications, from rendering 3D images to
ranking web pages. Their ability to represent and manipulate complex data structures
efficiently makes them essential in today’s digital world.
7. References
- Linear Algebra and Its Applications – Gilbert Strang
- Google Research Blog
- Khan Academy (3D Transformations)
- Wolfram MathWorld
