设 $n$ 阶方阵 $A_n=(|i-j|)_{1 \leq i, j \leq n}$ ，其行列式...

Examining the matrix

I’m working through the matrix $A_n$ and its determinant $D_n$. By evaluating the matrix for small $n$, I aim to uncover a pattern or closed-form formula for $D_n$.

Evaluating matrix determinants

For $n=2$, the determinant is $-1$, suggesting $(-1)^{(n-1)n/2}$ could be part of the formula. Moving to $n=3$, standard determinant methods will be applied to find $D_3$.

Breaking down the determinant

I’m working through the cofactor expansion of $A_3$. Calculating the minors, the final determinant comes out to 3. This highlights the step-by-step approach to larger matrices.

Verifying determinant accuracy

I’m working through the final span to confirm the determinant $D_3$ as 4. Each cofactor and matrix element is carefully checked to ensure precise summation.

Refining the matrix

Taking a closer look, I simplify the matrix through row operations, then expand along the first row to calculate the determinant. This involves computing minors and cofactors effectively.

Calculation progress

I’m mapping out the determinants for $n=3$ and $n=4$. Using row operations and minor determinants, I’m working through the matrix to confirm the determinant for $n=4$.

Refining approach

I opt for column operations, updating the matrix by subtracting multiples of the second row from the third and fourth rows. This method helps simplify the calculation of the determinant.

Breaking down the determinant

I’m piecing together the determinants by expanding along the first column and evaluating subdeterminants. Simplifying the matrix through row operations, the determinant is consistently preserved.

Piecing together

I’m focusing on the submatrix formed by removing the second row and first column, resulting in the matrix $\begin{pmatrix} 1 & 2 & 3 \\ 2 & 0 & 0 \\ 4 & 2 & 0 \end{pmatrix}$.

Mapping out the determinants

I’m expanding along the last column of the 3x3 submatrix and calculating the 2x2 determinant of a smaller submatrix. This highlights the step-by-step approach to refining the calculations.

Confirming the total

I’m piecing together the final determinant by multiplying the cofactor sign and the matrix entry, ensuring each term's contribution is correctly accounted for, leading to a total determinant of -12.

Confirming the outcome

OK, let's finalize: after rechecking the matrix and calculating the determinant expansion along the first column, the 4x4 determinant consistently results in -12.

Analyzing the sequence

I’m working through a recursive formula for the determinant sequence Dn, verifying it holds for n=2 to n=4, and hypothesizing a pattern for Dn. The sequence progression is intriguing to observe.

Solving coefficients

OK, I’m piecing together coefficients for the characteristic equation by equating known values of Dn with the general solution $D_n = (c_1 + c_2 n)(-2)^n$.

Verifying coefficients

I’m checking the coefficients $c_1$ and $c_2$ by plugging them into equations for different $n$ values, ensuring they satisfy the derived conditions.

Simplifying the formula

I’m refining the determinant formula $D_n$ to $\frac{(1-n)(-2)^n}{4}$, ensuring it holds true across the tested values $n=1$ to $n=4$.

Confirming the outcome

I’ve verified that $D_n = (-1)^n 2^{n-2} (n-1)$ is accurate by rechecking each term and confirming it aligns with the computed values for $n=1$ to $n=4$.

Piecing together

I’m validating the expression $D_n = (n-1)(-1)^{n+1} 2^{n-2}$ for $n \geq 2$, ensuring it aligns with computed values for $n=1$ to $n=4$. It’s coming together nicely.

Reasoned for 4m 15s