Maths WorkshopMaths problems with full solutions
Exercise 1172Algebra › Rings and fieldsL1Added 3 Nov 2026

Matrix rings and zero divisors

#matrix ring#zero divisors#non-commutative

Statement

Show that M2(R)M_2(\mathbb{R}) is a ring with unit but not an integral domain.

Hint

Matrix ring axioms hold. Find zero divisors.

Show solutionHide solution

Solution

Ring. M2(R)M_2(\mathbb{R}) with usual addition and multiplication is a non-commutative ring with unit I2I_2.

Zero divisors. (1000)(0010)=(0000)\begin{pmatrix}1&0\\0&0\end{pmatrix}\begin{pmatrix}0&0\\1&0\end{pmatrix}=\begin{pmatrix}0&0\\0&0\end{pmatrix}, with both factors nonzero.

Conclusion. M2(R)M_2(\mathbb{R}) is a non-commutative ring with unit, not an integral domain.