1. **Stating the problem:** We are given the matrix $$M = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 \\ 5 & 6 & 7 & 8 \\ 9 & 10 & 11 & 12 \\ 13 & 14 & 15 & 16 \end{bmatrix}$$ 2. **Understanding the problem:** The problem involves the matrix $M$. Since no specific operation is requested, we will explain the matrix structure and how to interpret it. 3. **Matrix explanation:** - $M$ is a $4 \times 4$ matrix, meaning it has 4 rows and 4 columns. - Each element $M_{ij}$ represents the entry in the $i$-th row and $j$-th column. 4. **Example of accessing elements:** - $M_{1,1} = 1$ (first row, first column) - $M_{4,4} = 16$ (fourth row, fourth column) 5. **Additional notes:** - Matrices like $M$ can be used in various algebraic operations such as addition, multiplication, finding determinants, inverses, etc. Since no further instructions were given, this completes the explanation of the matrix $M$.