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MODULE - I
Algebra
Notes
4
DETERMINANTSAND THEIR
APPLICATIONS
Every square matrix is associated with a unique number called the determinant of the matrix.
There are numerous applications of determinants, the most famous of which is a method of
solving system of ‘n’ linear equations in ‘n’variables called Cramer’s rule, named afterGabriel
Cramer (1704-1752).
In this lesson, we will learn various properties of determinants and also evaluate determinants
by different methods. We will also learn to solve system of linear equations by Cramer’s rule
using determinant.
OBJECTIVES
After studying this lesson, you will be able to :
• define determinant of a square matrix;
• define the minor and the cofactor of an element of a matrix;
• find the minor and the cofactor of an element of a matrix;
• find the value of a given determinant of order not exceeding 3;
• state the properties of determinants;
• evaluate a given determinant of order not exceeding 3 by using expansion method
and using SARRUS diagram;
• state the conditions for a system of linear equations in two/three variables to have a
unique solution; and
• state and apply Cramer’s rule to solve a system of linear equations.
MATHEMATICS 101
Determinants and Their Applications
a1 x + b1 y = c1
a2 x + b2 y = c2
On solving this system of equations for x and y, we get
b2 c1 − b1c2 a c − a2 c1
x= and y = 1 2 provided a1b2 − a2 b1 ≠ 0
a1b2 − a2 b1 a1b2 − a2 b1
a1 a 2
= a1 b2 − a2 b1
b1 b2
a11 a12
In the determinant, a a22
21
102 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
6 4
(i) = (6 × 2) − (8 × 4) = 12 − 32 = − 20
8 2
a +b 2b
(ii) = (a+b) (a+b) − (2a) (2b)
2a a +b
= a2+2ab + b2 − 4ab
= a2+b2 − 2ab
= (a_b)2
x2 + x + 1 x + 1
(iii) = (x2+x+1) (x_1) − (x2_x+1) (x+1)
x2 − x + 1 x − 1
= (x3_1) (x3+1)
= _2
Example 4.2 Find the value of x if
x−3 x 2x − 1 2x + 1
(i) =6 (ii) =0
x +1 x + 3 x + 1 4x + 2
Solution :
x−3 x
(i) Now, = (x_3) (x+3) − x (x+1)
x +1 x + 3
= (x2 _ 9) _x2 _ x = _x _ 9
According to the question,
_x _ 9 = 6
⇒ x = _15
2x − 1 2x + 1
(ii) Now, = (2x_1) (4x+2) _ (x+1) (2x+1)
x +1 4x + 2
= 8x2+4x _ 4x _ 2 _ 2x2 _ x _ 2x _ 1
= 6x2 _ 3x _3 = 3(2x2 _ x _1)
According to the equation
3(2x2 _ x _ 1) = 0
MATHEMATICS 103
Determinants and Their Applications
1
or, x=1,−
2
a1 b1 c1
a b2
The expression 2
c2 contains nine quantities a , b , c , a , b , c , a , b and c
1 1 1 2 2 2 3 3 3
a3 b3 c3
aranged in 3 rows and 3 columns, is called determinant of order 3 (or a determinant of third
order). A determinant of order 3 has (3)2 = 9 elements.
Using double subscript notations, viz., a11, a12, a13, a21, a22, a23, a31, a32, a33 for the elements
a1, b1, c1, a2, b2, c2, a3, b3 and c3 ,we write a determinant of order3 as follows:
LMa11 a12 OP
A=
Na21 a22 Q
= a11a22 _ a21a12
104 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
LMa 11 a12 a13 OP a11 a12 a13 Algebra
L
If A= M
a +b a OP
Example 4.4
Nb a −b Q
, find |A|
a +b a
Solution : |A| = = (a+b) (a_b) _ b × a = a2_ b2 _ ab
b a −b
= a11a22 a33 + a12 a23a31 + a13a21a32 − a11a23a32 − a12 a21a33 − a13a22 a31
MATHEMATICS 105
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I We notice that in the above method of expansion, each element of first row is multiplied by
Algebra the second order determinant obtained by deleting the row and column in which the element
lies.
Further, mark that the elements a11, a12 and a13 have been assigned positive, negative and
Notes positive signs, respectively. In other words, they are assigned positive and negative signs,
alternatively, starting with positive sign. If the sum of the subscripts of the elements is an even
number, we assign positive sign and if it is an odd number, then we assign negative sign.
Therefore, a11 has been assigned positive sign.
Note : We can expand the determinant using any row or column. The value of the determinant
will be the same whether we expand it using first row or first column or any row or column,
taking into consideration rule of sign as explained above.
Example 4.5 Expand the determinant, using the first row
1 2 3
2 4 1
3 2 5
1 2 3
4 1 2 1 2 4
Solution : ∆ =
2 4 1 = 1× _ 2 × +3 ×
2 5 3 5 3 2
3 2 5
1 2 3
3 1 2
2 3 1
1 2 3
3 1 2 3 2 1 3 1 3
Solution : ∆ = = (_1) × 2 +1 × + (_1) 3 ×
2 1 2 1 3 2
2 3 1
106 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.1
1. Find |A|, if
Notes
LM2 + 3 5 OP LMcos α sin α OP
(a) A =
N 2 2 − 3Q (b) A =
N− sin α cos α Q
(c) A = M
Lsin α + cosβ cosβ + cosαOP LMa + bi c + diOP
Ncosβ − cosα sin α − sin β Q (d)
Nc − di a − bi Q
2. Find which of the following matrices are singular matrices :
2 3 1 2 1 −5 a b c x y z
1 2 3 0 −3 0 b d e 1 2 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
3 2 1 4 2 −1 c e f 2 3 2
3 2
determinant is 7.
5 7
Example 4.7 Find the minors of the elements of the determinant
MATHEMATICS 107
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I Solution :
Algebra Let Mij denote the minor of aij. Now, a11 occurs in the 1st row and 1st column. Thus
to find the minor of a11, we delete the 1st row and 1st column of |A|.
The minor M11 of a11 is given by
Notes
a22 a23
M11 = = a22a33 _ a32a23
a32 a33
Similarly, the minor M12 of a12 is given by
a11 a12
M23 = = a11a32_ a31a12
a31 a32
Similarly we can find M31, M32 and M33.
4.6.2 Cofactors of aij in |A|
The cofactor of an element aij in a determinant is the minor of aij multiplied by
_ i+j
( 1) . It is usually denoted by Cij, Thus,
Cofactor of a = C = (_1)i+j M
ij ij ij
Example 4.8 Find the cofactors of the elements a11, a12, and a21 of the determinant
108 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
Example 4.9 Find the minors and cofactors of the elements of the second row in the MODULE - I
determinant Algebra
1 6 3
|A| =
5 2 4 Notes
7 0 8
Solution : The elements of the second row are a21=5; a22=2; a23=4.
6 3
Minor of a21 (i.e., 5) = = 48 _ 0 = 48
0 8
1 3
Minor of a22 (i.e., 2) = = 8 _ 21 = _13
7 8
1 6
and Minor of a23 (i.e., 4) = = 0 _ 42 = _ 42
7 0
= a21C21+a22C22+a23C23
= a31C31+a32C32+a33C33
where Cij is the cofactor of the element aij
3 1 7
Example 4.10 Evaluate ∆ =
−6 2 −3 in terms of the elements of first row and their
8 4 5
MATHEMATICS 109
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I corresponding cofactors, and then in terms of the elements of first column and their
Algebra corresponding cofactors. Verify that both the results are same.
Solution :
Expanding the determinant in terms of the elements of first row and their
Notes
corresponding cofactors, we have the value of ∆, if we expand by R1,
i.e. first row is given by
∆ = a11C11 + a12C12 + a13C13
First we need to evaluate C11, C12 and C13
2 −3
C11 = (_1)1+1M11 = (_1)2
4 5
= 10+12 = 22
−6 −3
C12 = (_1)1+2M12 = (_1)
8 5
= _(_30+24) = 6
−6 2
C13 = (_1)1+3M13 = (_1)1+3
8 4
= _24 _ 16 = _40
∴ ∆ = 3 × 22 + 1 × 6 + 7 × (_40) = 66 + 6 _ 280 = _208
Expanding the deteminant ∆ in terms of the elements of first column and their corresponding
cofactors, we have
∆ = a11 C11 + a21 C21 + a23 C23
2 −3
Now, C11 = (_1)1+1 M11 = (_1)2 = 10 + 12 = 22
4 5
1 7
C21 = (_1)2+1 M21 = (_1)3 = _(5_28) = 23
4 5
1 7
C31 = (_1)3+1 M31 = (_1)4 = (_3_14) = _17
2 −3
110 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
Example 4.11 Show that the sum of the products of the elements of one row (or column) MODULE - I
by the cofactors of another row (or column) is always zero. Algebra
Solution :
2 3 Notes
Consider, ∆ =
4 5
Here, C11 = 5 and C12 = _ 4
Let us find out a21 × C11 + a22 × C12
= 4 × 5 + 5 × (_4)
= 20 _ 20 = 0
Similarly, if we consider
1 2 3
∆ = 2 3 1
3 1 2
2 3
Here C 21 = (_1)2+1 = _1
1 2
1 3
C 22 = (_1)2+2 = _7
3 2
1 2
C 23 = (_1)2+3 3 1 = _(1_6) = 5
MATHEMATICS 111
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Consider the determinant :
Algebra
a11 a12 a13
a
∆ = 21
a22 a23
Notes
a31 a32 a33
First of all we write down the three columns of the determinant, and then write the first row
columns again as shown below
a11 a12 a13 a11 a12
a21 a22 a23 a21 a22
a31 a32 a33 a31 a32
From the sum of terms connected with downward arrows, we subtract the terms connected
with upwards arrows. Thus we get
a11a 22a33 + a12a23a31+a13a21a32
_a a a _ a a a _ a a a
31 22 13 32 23 11 33 21 12
= a11 (a22 a33_ a32 a23) _ a12(a21 a33 _ a23 a31 )+a13 (a21 a32_ a31 a22)
−1 2 3
∆ =
7 5 0
3 −2 −4
Solution :
−1 2 3 −1 2
7 5 0 7 5
3 −2 −4 3 −2
The value of the determinant
= (_1) (5)(_4) + 2.0.3 + 3. 7 (_2) _ 3.5.3_(_2).0. (_1) _ (_4). 7.2
= 20 + 0 _ 42 _ 45 _ 0 + 56
= _ 11
112 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.2
1. Find the minors and cofactors of the elements of the second
row of the determinant Notes
1 2 3
−4 3 6
2 −7 9
2 3 2
1 2 1
3 1 2
2 1 0 −1 0 1 3 4 5
(a)
1 0 2 (b)
0 1 −1 (c)
−6 2 −3
3 −4 3 1 −1 0 8 1 7
1 a bc b+c a a 1 a b+c
(d)
1 b ca (e)
b c+a b (f)
1 b c+a
1 c ab c c a +b 1 c a +b
2 1 −3 0 2 7 −1 − a b
(a)
1 1 −2 (b)
1 2 5 (c)
a −1 c
2 −2 4 −1 2 −1 b c 1
a h g
h b f = abc + 2fgh _ af2_ bg2 _ ch2
g f c
MATHEMATICS 113
Determinants and Their Applications
Property 1: The value of a determinant remains unchanged if its rows and columns are
interchanged.
2 −1 3
Let ∆ =
0 −3 0
4 2 −1
Expanding the determinant by first column, we have
−3 0 −1 3 −1 3
∆ =2 _ 0 +4
2 −1 2 −1 −3 0
2 0 4
∆′ =
−1 −3 2
3 0 −1
Expanding the determinant ∆′ by second column, we have (Recall that a determinant
can be expanded by any of its rows or columns)
−1 2 2 4 2 4
( −) 0 + ( −3) + ( −) 0
3 −1 3 −1 −1 2
= 0 + (_3) (_2_12) + 0
= 42
Thus, we see that ∆ = ∆′
Property 2: If two rows ( or columns) of a determinant are interchanged, then the value of
the determinant changes in sign only.
114 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
2 3 1 Algebra
Let ∆ =
1 2 3
3 1 2
Notes
Expanding the determinant by first row, we have
2 3 1 3 1 2
=2 _3 +1
1 2 3 2 3 1
3 2 1
Then ∆′ =
2 1 3
1 3 2
1 3 2 3 2 1
3 _2 +1
3 2 1 2 1 3
2 3 5 1 5 6
For example ,
1 5 6 = (_1)2
0 4 2
0 4 2 2 3 5
MATHEMATICS 115
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra a1 b1 c1
Proof : Let ∆ = a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
Notes
be a determinant with identical columns C1 and C2 and let ∆′ determinant obtained from ∆
by interchanging C1 and C2
Then,
a1 b1 c1
∆′ = a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
which is the same as ∆, but by property 2, the value of the determinant changes in sign, if its
any two adjacent rows (or columns) are interchnaged
Therefore ∆′ = −∆
Thus, we find that
or 2∆ = 0 ⇒ ∆ = 0
Hence the value of a determinant is zero, if it has two identical rows (or columns).
Property 4: If each element of a row (or column) of a determinant is multiplied by the same
constant say, k ≠ 0, then the value of the determinat is multiplied by that constant k.
2 1 −5
Let ∆ =
0 −3 0
4 2 −1
2 1 −20
∆ ′ = 0 −3 0
4 2 −4
116 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
Corollary : MODULE - I
If any two rows (or columns) of a determinant are proportional, then its value is zero. Algebra
a1 b1 ka1
a b2 ka2 Notes
Proof : Let ∆ = 2
a3 b3 ka3
Note that elements of column 3 are k times the corresponding elements of column 1
a1 b1 a1
By Property 4, ∆ =k
a2 b2 a2
a3 b3 a3
=k × 0 (by Property 2)
=0
Property 5: If each element of a row (or of a column) of a determinant is expressed as the
sum (or difference) of two or more terms, then the determinant can be expressed as the
sum (or difference) of two or more determinants of the same order whose remaining rows
(or columns) do not change.
a1 + b1 + c1 +
a2 b2 c2
Proof : Let ∆ =
a3 b3 c3
a1 b1 c1
a2 b2 c2 + a2 b2 c2
=
a3 b3 c3 a3 b3 c3
Thus, the determinant ∆ can be expressed as the sum of the determinants of the same
order.
MATHEMATICS 117
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I Property 6: The value of a determinant does not change, if to each element of a row
Algebra (or a column) be added (or subtracted) the some multiples of the corresponding elements of
one or more other rows (or columns)
Notes a1 b1 c1
Proof : Let ∆ =
a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
a1 b1 c1 a3 b3 c3
∆′ = a 2 b2 c2 + k a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3 a3 b3 c3
Now we are in a position to evaluate a determinant easily by applying the aforesaid properties.
The purpose of simplification of a determinant is to make maximum possible zeroes in a row
(or column) by using the above properties and then to expand the determinant by that row
(or column). We denote 1st, 2nd and 3rd row by R1, R2, and R3 respectively and 1st,2nd and
3rd column by C1, C2 and C3 respectively.
118 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
1 w w2 Algebra
w w2 1
Example 4.13 Show that =0
w2 1 w
Notes
where w is a non-real cube root of unity.
1 w w2
w w2 1
Solution : ∆ =
w2 1 w
Add the sum of the 2nd and 3rd column to the 1st column. We write this operation as
C1 → C1 + (C2 + C3 )
1 + w + w2 w w2 0 w w2
w + w2 + 1 w2 1 0 w2 1
∴ ∆= = = 0 (on expanding by C1)
w2 + 1 + w 1 w 0 1 w
1 a bc
Example 4.14 Show that
1 b ca = (a_b) (b_c) (c_a)
1 c ab
1 a bc
Solution : ∆ =
1 b ca
1 c ab
0 a − c bc − ab
= 0 b − c ca − ab [R → R1 − R3 and R2 → R2 − R3 ]
1
1 c ab
0 a − c b( c − a ) 0 1 −b
= 0 b−c a (c − b) = (a − c)(b − c) 0 1 − a
1 c ab 1 c ab
MATHEMATICS 119
Determinants and Their Applications
Example 4.15
b+c a a
Prove that b c+a b = 4 abc
c c a +b
b+c a a
Solution : ∆ =
b c+a b
c c a +b
0 −2c −2b
=
b c+a b [ R1 → R1 − ( R2 + R3 )]
c c a +b
c+a b b b b c+a
=0 − ( −2 c ) − 2b
c a +b c a +b c c
a −b b−c c−a
∆ =
b−c c−a a −b
c−a a −b b−c
120 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
a −b b−c c−a Algebra
Solution : ∆ =
b−c c−a a −b
c−a a −b b−c
Notes
0 b−c c−a
=
0 c−a a −b [C1 → C1 + C2 + C3 ]
0 a −b b−c
= 0, on expanding by C1
1 bc a (b + c)
1 ca b(c + a ) = 0
1 ab c(a + b)
1 bc a (b + c)
Solution : ∆ =
1 ca b(c + a )
1 ab c(a + b)
1 bc bc + ab + ac
=
1 ca ca + bc + ba [ C3 → C2 + C3 ]
1 ab ab + ca + cb
1 bc 1
= (ab + bc + ca ) 1 ca 1
1 ab 1
= ( ab + bc + ca ) × 0 (by Property 3)
=0
−a 2 ab ac
ab −b 2 bc
∆ = = 4a2b2c2
ac bc −c 2
MATHEMATICS 121
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra −a 2 ab ac
ab −b 2 bc
Solution : ∆ =
ac bc −c2
Notes
−a b c
= abc
a −b c
a b −c
−a b c
LM R → R + R OP
2 2 1
= abc
0 0 2c
0 2b 0
NR → R + R Q
3 3 1
0 2c
= abc( − a ) (on expanding by C1)
2b 0
= abc( − a )( −4bc)
= 4a2b2c2
1+ a 1 1
1 1+ a 1 = a2 (a+3)
1 1 1+ a
1+ a 1 1
Solution : ∆ =
1 1+ a 1
1 1 1+ a
a+3 1 1
=
a + 3 1+ a 1 [C1 → C1 + C2 + C3 ]
a+3 1 1+ a
122 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
1 1 1 Algebra
=
(a + 3) 1 1 + a 1
1 1 1+ a
Notes
1 0 0
(a + 3) 1 a 0
LMC → C − C OP
2 2 1
=
1 0 a
NC → C − C Q
3 3 1
a 0
= (a + 3) × (1)
0 a
= ( a + 3)( a 2 )
= a 2 ( a + 3)
x+3 x x
1. Show that
x x+3 x = 27 (x+1)
x x x+3
a −b−c 2a 2a
2. Show that
2b b−c−a 2b = ( a + b + c) 3
2c 2c c−a −b
1+ a 1 1
3. Show that
1 1+ b 1 = bc + ca + ab + abc
1 1 1+ c
a a+b a + 2b
2
a + 2b a a + b = 9 b (a + b)
4. Show that
a+b a + 2b a
MATHEMATICS 123
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra (a + 1)(a + 2) a + 2 1
5. Show that
(a + 2)(a + 3) a + 3 1 = −2
(a + 3)(a + 4) a + 4 1
Notes
7. Evaluate
a a +b a +b+c (b + c) 2 a2 a2
2a 3a + 2b 4a + 3b + 2c b2 (c + a ) 2 b2
(a) (b)
3a 6a + 3b 10a + 6b + 3c c2 c2 ( a + b) 2
8. Solve for x :
3x − 8 3 x
3 3x − 8 3 =0
3 3 3x − 8
a1 b1
If the determinant ∆ = ≠ 0, then the system of homogeneous equations has only one
a2 b2
124 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
a1 b1 Algebra
solution, i.e., the trival solution x = y = 0. However, if the determinant D = =0, then
a2 b2
the system forms a pair of dependent equations and in that case the system has infinite
number of solutions, i.e., the system has also non-trival solutions. Determinants are used Notes
mainly to solve non-homogeneous linear equations in two or more variables.In this section,
we shall learn to solve simultaneous linear equations in two/three unknowns with the help of
determinants.The method of solving simultaneous linear equations by determinants is
commonly known as Cramer’s Rule.
4.11.1 Solving a system of Linear Equation in two variables
Consider the following system of linear equations :
2 x + 3y − 5 = 0 ...... (i)
3x + 5 y − 7 = 0 ...... (ii)
2 3 2 5
i.e., y=
3 5 3 7
2 5
3 7
⇒y=
2 3 ......(A)
3 5
Observe that in the determinant of the numerator, the 1st column consists of the coefficeints
of x and the 2nd columns consist of the constant terms.
And, in the determinant of the denominator of y, the 1st column and the 2nd column consist
of the coefficients of x and y respectively.
MATHEMATICS 125
Determinants and Their Applications
5 3
7 5
⇒x=
2 3 ......(B)
3 5
Again observe that in the determinant of the numerator of x, the 1st column consists of the
constant terms and the 2nd column consists of the coefficients of y.
And, in the determinant of the denominator of x, the 1st column and the 2nd column consist
of the coefficients of x and y respectively .
5 3
7 5
D
Thus, x = 2 3 = 1 (say)
D
3 5
2 5
3 7 D
and y= = 2 (say)
2 3 D
3 5
are the solutions of the given system of equations in the determinant form.
Consider another system of equations:
x+ y = 3 ...(i)
2 x − 3y = 1 ...(ii)
126 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
Again, solving (i) and (ii) by elimination method, for x, we get MODULE - I
Algebra
− 3( x + y ) = − 3(3)
1(2 x − 3 y ) = 1
Notes
⇒
RS−3( x) − 3( y) = − 3(3) ...(iii)
T1(2 x) − 1(3y) = 1(1) ...(iv)
Subtracting (iv) from (iii), we get
3 1
1 −3 D1
⇒ x= =
1 1 D (say)
2 −3
Again, we observe that in the determinant D1, the 1st column consists of the
constant terms and the 2nd column consists of the coefficient of y. Also, in D, the 1st and
the 2nd columns consist of the coefficients of x and y respectively.
MATHEMATICS 127
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I Again, we observe that the determinant D is nothing but the determinant of the
Algebra coefficient of x and y and the determinant D2 is obtained by replacing the coefficient of y by
the constant terms.
3 1 1 3
Notes
1 −3 2 1
Thus, x= and y =
1 1 1 1
2 −3 2 −3
Therefore, if a1 x + b1 y = c1 and a2 x + b2 y = c2
is a given system of linear equations in two variables, then its solution will be
c1 b1
c b D
x= 2 2 = 1
a1 b1 D
a2 b2
a1 c1
a2 c2 D
and y= = 2
a1 b1 D
a2 b2
a1 b1
provided D = ≠0
a2 b2
4.11.2 Solution of a System of Linear Equations in Three Variables
Consider the following system of equations in three variables
x + 2 y + 3z = 4
2x + y + z = 1
...(C)
3x + 3y + 5z = 3
1 2 3
Let D= 2 1 1
3 3 5
i.e., D is the determinant of the coefficients of x, y and z.
128 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
x 2 3
MODULE - I
Algebra
Then, xD = 2 x 1 1
3x 3 5
Multiplying the 2nd column by y and the 3rd column by z and adding Notes
x + 2 y + 3z 2 3
xD = 2 x + y + z 1 1
3x + 3 y + 5z 3 5
From (C), we get
4 2 3
xD = 1 1 1 = D1 (say)
3 3 5
D1
i.e., xD = D1 ⇒ x =
D
Similarly, we will get
1 4 3 1 2 4
D2 = 2 1 1 and D3 = 2 1 1
3 3 5 3 3 3
a1 x + b1 y + c1z = d1
a2 x + b2 y + c2 z = d2
a3 x + b3 y + c3z = d3
MATHEMATICS 129
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra d1 b1 c1
d 2 b2 c2
d b c3 D
Notes x= 3 3 = 1
a1 b1 c1 D
a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
a1 d1 c1
a2 d 2 c2
a d 3 c3 D
y= 3 = 2
a1 b1 c1 D
a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
a1 b1 d1
a2 b2 d 2
a b3 d 3 D
and z= 3 = 3
a1 b1 c1 D
a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
a1 b1 c1
D = a2 b2 c2 ≠ 0
a3 b3 c3
The method used for solving the system of equations in three variables can be used in
exactly the same way to solve a system of ‘n’ equations in ‘n’ unknowns.
The method discussed above is commonly known as Cramer’s rule, after the Swiss Math-
ematician Gabriel Cramer (1704-1752).
Note: Cramer’s Rule does not apply if D = 0
Example 4.20 Solve the following system of equations by Cramer’s Rule:
2 x + 3y = 5
3x + 5 y = 7
130 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
c1 b1 5 3 Notes
D1 = = = 25 − 21 = 4
c2 b2 7 5
a1 c1 2 5
and D2 = = = 14 − 15 = −1
a2 c2 3 7
D1 4
Thus, by Cramer’s Rule x= = =4
D 1
D2 −1
and y= = = −1
D 1
are the solutions of the given system of equations.
Example 4.21 Solve the following system of equations by Cramer’s Rule:
2 x + y − 3z = 3
x + 2y + z = 5
3x − 5 y + 2 z = 1
Solution: We have,
2 1 −3
D= 1 2 1 = 2(4 + 5) − 1(2 − 3) − 3( −5 − 6) = 18 + 1 + 33 = 52 ≠ 0
3 −5 2
3 1 −3
D1 = 5 2 1 = 3(4 + 5) − 1(10 − 1) − 3( −25 − 2) = 27 − 9 + 81 = 99
1 −5 2
MATHEMATICS 131
Determinants and Their Applications
2 3
Now D= = −4−3 = −7 ≠ 0
1 −2
4 3
Also D1 = = − 8 − 9 = − 17
3 −2
2 4
and D2 = = 6−4 = 2
1 3
By Cramer’s rule
D1 −17 17
x= = =
D −7 7
D2 2 −2
and y= = =
D −7 7
Thus, we find that for D ≠ 0 and D1 ≠ 0, D2 ≠ 0, the given system of equations have
17 −2
non-zero, unique solution x = and y =
7 7
In this case, we say that the given system of equations is consistent.
132 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
0 2
Also, D1 = = 0−0 = 0
0 3
1 0
and D2 = = 0−0 = 0
−2 0
D1 0
Hence, x = = =0
D 7
D2 0
and x= = =0
D 7
Thus, we find that for D ≠ 0 and D1 = D2 = 0, the given system of equations will have only
the trivial solution x = y = 0
We already know that Cramer’s rule does not apply if D = 0. The two cases arise namely
system of equations having (i) no solution, (ii) infinitely many solutions.
2 4
Here, D= = 4−4 = 0
1 2
Since D = 0, Cramer’s rule does not apply here.
5 4
Now, D1 = = 10 − 12 = −2
3 2
2 5
and D2 = = 6−5 = 1
1 3
MATHEMATICS 133
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra Hence, if D = 0 and D1 ≠ 0, D2 ≠ 0, the equations will have no solution.
Similar is the case for a system of three equations in three variables.For that, consider the
system of equations
Notes
x+ y+z = 2
x + 2 y + 3z = 3 ...(i)
x + 3 y + 5z = 5
1 1 1
Here, D= 1 2 3 = 1(10 − 9) − 1(5 − 3) + 1(3 − 2 ) = 1 − 2 + 1 = 0
1 3 5
x 1 1
Now, xD = x 2 3
x 3 5
Multiplying the 2nd column byy and the 3rd column by z and adding them to the 1st column,
we get
x+ y+z 1 1 2 1 1
xD = x + 2 y + 3z 2 3 = 3 2 3 = D1 [using(1)]
x + 3 y + 5z 3 5 5 3 5
Thus, D1 = 2(10 − 9) − 1(15 − 15) + 1(9 − 10) = 2 − 0 − 1 = 1
So, xD = D1 ⇒ xD = 1
1 1
⇒ x= = which is undefined
D 0
1 2 1
where D2 = 1 3 3 = 1(15 − 15) − 2(5 − 3) + 1(5 − 3) = 0 − 4 + 2 = − 2
1 5 5
1 1 2
and D3 = 1 2 3 = 1(10 − 9) − 1(5 − 3) + 2(3 − 2) = 1 − 2 + 2 = 1
1 3 5
134 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
D2 −2 MODULE - I
yD = D2 ⇒ y = ⇒y= which is undefined. Algebra
D 0
D3 1
and zD = D3 ⇒ z = ⇒ z = which is undefined.
D 0
Thus, if D = 0 and D1 ≠ 0, D2 ≠ 0 and D3 ≠ 0, then the system of equations will have no Notes
solution. In this case, we say that the system of equations is inconsistent.
x − y + 3z = 6
x + 3 y − 3z = − 4
5x + 3 y + 3z = 10
1 −1 3
Here, D = 1 3 −3 = 1(9 + 9) + 1(3 + 15) + 3(3 − 15) = 18 + 18 − 36 = 0
5 3 3
6 −1 3
Also D1 = −4 3 −3 = 6(9 + 9) + 1(−12 + 30) + 3(−12 − 30) = 108 + 18 − 126 = 0
10 3 3
1 6 3
D2 = 1 −4 −3 = 1( −12 + 30) − 6(3 + 15) + 3(10 + 20) = 18 − 108 + 90 = 0
5 10 3
1 −1 6
D3 = 1 3 −4 = 1(30 + 12) + 1(10 + 20) + 6(3 − 15) = 42 + 30 = 72 = 0
5 3 10
Thus, for D = 0 and D1 = D2 = D3 = 0 for the given system of equations will have
infinitely many solutions.
x − y + 3z = 6
i.e.,
x + 3 y − 3z = − 4
MATHEMATICS 135
Determinants and Their Applications
6 − 3z −1
−4 + 3z 3 3(6 − 3z ) + 1( −4 + 3z ) 18 − 9 z − 4 + 3z 14 − 6z
x= = = =
1 −1 3+1 4 4
1 3
7 − 3z
x=
2
1 6 − 3z
1 −4 + 3z 1( −4 + 3z ) − 1(6 − 3z ) −4 + 3z − 6 + 3z −10 + 6z
and y= = = =
1 −1 3+1 4 4
1 3
−5 + 3z
y=
2
7 − 3k −5 + 3k
x= , y= and z = k
2 2
Thus, the system of equations has many solutions.
(i) If D ≠ 0 and atleast one of D1 , D2 , ..., Dn is not equal to zero, then the system will
have non-zero, unique solution.
(ii) If D ≠ 0 and each D1 = 0, then the system has only the trivial solution
x1 = x2 = ... = xn = 0
(iii) If D = 0 and some D1 ≠ 0 , then the system has no solution.
(iv) If D = 0 and each D1 = 0, then the system has infinitely many solutions.
136 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
Solution : Here,
1 1 1
D = 2 7 −3 = 1( −7 + 15) − 1( −2 + 9) + 1(10 − 21) = 8 − 7 − 11 = − 10 ≠ 0
3 5 −1
2 1 1
Now D1 = 5 7 −3 = 2( −7 + 15) − 1( −5 + 12) + 1(25 − 28) = 16 − 7 − 3 = 6
4 5 −1
1 2 1
D2 = 2 5 −3 = 1( −5 + 12) − 2( −2 + 9) + 1(8 − 15) = 7 − 14 − 7 = − 14
3 4 −1
1 1 2
D3 = 2 7 5 = 1(28 − 25) − 1(8 − 15) + 2(10 − 21) = 3 + 7 − 22 = − 12
3 5 4
MODULE - I Example 4.23 Determine which of the following systems of equations will have a unique
Algebra solution; and also find the solutions in each case:
(i) 2 x − 3y + 4z = − 9 (ii) x + 2y − z = 0
−3x + 4 y + 2 z = − 12 2 x + y + 2z = 0
Notes
4 x − 2 y − 3z = − 3 x − 3y + z = 0
(iii) x + 2y + z = 2 (iv) x + 2 y + 3z = 1
2 x + y + 2z = 3 3x − y + 2 z = 1
x − 3y + z = 4 4 x + y + 5z = 2
Solution:
(i) 2 x − 3y + 4z = − 9
−3x + 4 y + 2 z = − 12
4 x − 2 y − 3z = − 3
Here,
2 −3 4
D = −3 4 2 = 2(−12 + 4) + 3(9 − 8) + 4(6 −16) = −16 + 3 − 40 = − 53 ≠ 0
4 −2 −3
Also
−9 −3 4
D1 = −12 4 2 = −9(−12+4) +3(36+6) +4(24+12) = 72+126+144 = 342
−3 −2 −3
2 −9 4
D2 = −3 − 12 2 = 2 (36 + 6) + 9(9 − 8) + 4(9 + 48) = 84 + 9 + 228 = 321
4 −3 2
and
2 −3 −9
D3 = −3 4 −12 = 2(−12 − 24) + 3(9 + 48) − 9(6−16) = − 72 +171+ 90 = 189
4 −2 −3
Since D ≠ 0 and D1 ≠ 0 , D2 ≠ 0 , D3 ≠ 0
138 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
∴ The system of equations will have a non-zero unique solution which is MODULE - I
Algebra
D1 342 −342
x= = =
D −53 53
Notes
D 321 −321
y= 2 = =
D −53 53
D3 189 −189
and z= = =
D −53 53
(ii) x + 2y − z = 0
2 x + y + 2z = 0
x − 3y + z = 0
Here,
1 2 −1
D= 2 1 2 = 1(1 + 6) − 2(2 − 2) − 1( −6 − 1) = 7 + 7 = 14 ≠ 0
1 −3 1
Also,
0 2 −1
D1 = 0 1 2 =0 (expanding by the 1st column)
0 −3 1
1 0 −1
D2 = 2 0 2 =0
1 0 1
and
1 2 0
D3 = 2 1 0 = 0
1 −3 0
∴ The system of linear equations will not have a unique solution. In fact, it has a
trivial solution x = 0, y = 0, z = 0
MATHEMATICS 139
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I x + 2y + z = 2
(iii)
Algebra
2 x + y + 2z = 3
x − 3y + z = 4
Notes
1 2 1
Here D= 2 1 2 =0
1 −3 1
2 2 1
Also D1 = 3 1 2 = 2(1 + 6) − 2(3 − 8) + 1( −9 − 4) = 14 + 10 − 13 = 11
4 −3 1
1 2 1
D2 = 2 3 2 = 0 ( C1 = C3 )
1 4 1
1 2 2
and D3 = 2 1 3 = 1(4 + 9) − 2(8 − 3) + 2( −6 − 1) = 13 − 10 − 14 = − 11
1 −3 4
(iv) x + 2 y + 3z = 1
3x − y + 2 z = 1
4 x + y + 5z = 2
1 2 3
Here, D = 3 −1 2 = 1( −5 − 2) − 2(15 − 8) + 3(3 + 4) = − 7 − 14 + 21 = 0
4 1 5
1 2 3
Also, D1 = 1 −1 2 = 1( −5 − 2) − 2(5 − 4) + 3(1 + 2) = − 7 − 2 + 9 = 0
2 1 5
1 1 3
D2 = 3 1 2 = 1(5 − 4) − 1(15 − 8) + 3(6 − 4) = 1 − 7 + 6 = 0
4 2 5
140 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
1 2 1 Algebra
and D3 = 3 −1 1 = 1( −2 − 1) − 2(6 − 4) + 1(3 + 4) = − 3 − 4 + 7 = 0
4 1 2
Therefore, the given system of equations will have infinitely many solutions. Notes
(a) x − 2 y = 4 (b) 2x − y + z = 0
− 3 x + 5 y = −7 x + y − 2z = 0
3x + 2 y − z = 0
LET US SUM UP
a1 b1
• The expression a1b2 − a2b1 is denoted by a2 b2
MODULE - I • A determinant can be expanded using any row or column. The value of the
Algebra determinant will be the same.
• A square matrix whose determinant has the value zero, is called a singular matrix.
• The value of a determinant remains unchanged, if its rows and columns are
interchanged.
Notes
• If two rows (or columns) of a determinant are interchanged, then the value of the
determinant changes in sign only.
• If any two rows (or columns) of a determinant are identical, then the value of the
determinant is zero.
• If each element of a row (or column) of a determinant is multiplied by the same
constant, then the value of the determinant is multiplied by the constant.
• If any two rows (or columns) of a determinant are proportional, then its value is
zero.
• If each element of a row or column from of a determinant is expressed as the sum
(or differenence) of two or more terms, then the determinant can be expressed as
the sum (or difference) of two or more determinants of the same order.
• The value of a determinant does not change if to each element of a row (or column)
be added to (or subtracted from) some multiples of the corresponding elements of
one or more rows (or columns).
• The solution of a system of linear equations
a1 x + b1 y + c1z = d1
a2 x + b2 y + c2 z = d 2
a3 x + b3 y + c3 z = d 3
D1 D D
is given by x = ,y = 2 and z = 3
D D D
a1 b1 c1 d1 b1 c1 a1 d1 c1
D = a2 b2 c2 , D1 = d 2 b2 c2 , D2 = a2 d2 c2 and
a3 b3 c3 d 3 b3 c3 a3 d3 c3
a1 b1 d1
D3 = a2 b2 d 2 , provided D ≠ 0
a3 b3 d3
a1 x + b1 y + c1z = d1
a2 x + b2 y + c2 z = d 2
a3 x + b3 y + c3 z = d 3
142 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
TERMINAL EXERCISE
1 2 3
1. Find all the minors and cofactors of 3 4 2
2 3 1
43 1 6
2. Evaluate 35 7 4 by expanding it using the first column.
17 3 2
3. Using Sarrus diagram, evaluate
2 −1 2
1 2 −3
3 −1 −4
4. Solve for x, if
0 1 0
x 2 x =0
1 3 x
5. Using properties of determinants, show that
(a) 1 a a2
1 b b 2 = (b − c)(c − a )(a − b)
1 c c2
MATHEMATICS 143
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra (b) 1 x+ y x2 + y2
1 y+z y 2 + z 2 = ( x − y )( y − z )( z − x )
1 z+x z2 + x2
Notes
6. Evaluate:
12 22 32 1 w3 w5
(a) 22 32 42 (b) w3 1 w4
32 42 52 w5 w5 1
9. Determine which of the following systems of equations will have a unique solution:
(a) 2x − 6y + 1 = 0 (b) 2 x − 3y = 5
x − 3y + 2 = 0 x − 2y = 6
(c) 2 x + 3y + z = 1 (d) 3x + y + 2 z = − 1
4x − 6y + z = 3 x + 2y − z = 2
6x − 3y + 2z = 5 2 x − y + 3z = 1
144 MATHEMATICS
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
Algebra
ANSWERS
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.1
Notes
1. (a) 11 (b) 1 (c) 0 (d) (a2+b2) − (c2+d2)
17
6. (a) x = 2 (b) x = 2, 3 (c) x = 2, −
7
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.3
2 11 11
7. (a) a 3 (b) 2 abc( a + b + c) 3 8. x= , ,
3 3 3
CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.4
23 1
1. (a) x = , y= (b) x = − 1, y = 1
14 14
1 3 5
2. (a) x = − 1, y = 2, z = (b) x = − , y = 0, z =
3 4 4
(c) x = − 1, y = 2, z = 1
11 8
3. (a) x = 2, y = − 1 (b) x=− , y=−
8 9
24 7
(c) x = 1, y = −2, z = 3 (d) x = − 1, y = , z=
13 13
MATHEMATICS 145
Determinants and Their Applications
MODULE - I
4. (a) Yes; x = − 6, y = −5 (b) Yes; x = 0, y = 0, z = 0
Algebra
(c) x = 0, y = 3, z = 2
TERMINAL EXERCISE
Notes
1. M11 = − 2, M12 = − 1, M13 = 1, M 21 = − 7, M 22 = − 5, M 23 = − 1,
M 31 = − 8, M 32 = − 7, M 33 = − 2
C11 = − 2, C12 = 1, C13 = 1, C21 = 7, C22 = − 5, C23 = 1,
C31 = − 8, C32 = 7, C33 = − 2
2. 0 3. –31 4. x = 0, x = 1
6. (a) –8 (b) 0
17 2 9 5
7. (a) x = , y=− (b) x = 3, y = 1 (c) x = , y=
7 7 7 7
1 3 1
8. (a) x = 2, y = 3, z = 3 (b) x=− , y=− , z=−
2 2 2
9. (b) only
146 MATHEMATICS