Determinants and Their Applications

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

MODULE - I EXPECTED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE

Algebra
• Knowledge of solution of equations
• Knowledge of number system including complex number
Notes • Four fundamental operations on numbers and expressions

4.1 DETERMINANT OF ORDER 2

Let us consider the following system of linear equations:

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

The number a1 b2 − a2 b1 determines whether the values of x and y exist or not.

The number a1 b2 − a2 b1 is called the value of the determinant, and we write

a1 a 2
= a1 b2 − a2 b1
b1 b2

4.i.e. a11 belongs to the 1st row and 1st column

a12 belongs to the 1st row and 2nd column
a21 belongs to the 2nd row and 1st column
a22 belongs to the 2nd row and 2nd column
4.2 EXPANSION OF A DETERMINANT OF ORDER 2
A formal rule for the expansion of a determinant of order 2 may be stated as follows:

a11 a12
In the determinant, a a22
21

write the elements in the following manner :

a11 a12
a21 a22
Multiply the elements by the arrow. The sign of the arrow goingdownwards is positive, i.e.,
a11 a22 and the sign of the arrow going upwards is negative, i.e., − a21 a12
Add these two products, i.e., a11 a22 +( − a21.a12) or a11 a22 − a21 a12 which is the required
value of the determinant.

102 MATHEMATICS
 Determinants and Their Applications

Example 4.1 Evaluate : MODULE - I

Algebra
6 4 a +b 2b x2 + x + 1 x + 1
(i) (ii) (iii) 2
8 2 2a a +b x − x +1 x −1
Notes
Solution :

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

MODULE - I or, 2x2 _ x _1 = 0

Algebra
or, 2x2 − 2x + x − 1 = 0
or, 2x (x _1) +1(x _1) = 0
Notes or, (2x+1) (x _1)= 0

1
or, x=1,−
2

4.3 DETERMINANT OF ORDER 3

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:

a11 a12 a13

a21 a22 a23
a31 a32 a33

Usually a determinant, whether of order 2 or 3, is denoted by ∆ or |A|, |B| etc.

∆ = |aij| , where i = 1, 2, 3 and j = 1, 2, 3

4.4 DETERMINANT OF A SQUARE MATRIX

With each square matrix of numbers (we associate) a “determinant of the matrix”.
With the 1 × 1 matrix [a], we associate the determinant of order 1 and with the only
element a. The value of the determinant is a.

LMa 11 a12 OP be a square matrix of order 2, then the expression

If A=
Na 21 a22 Q
a11a22 _ a21a12 is defined as the determinant of order 2. It is denoted by

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

With the 3 × 3 matrix M PP

a a22 a23 , we associate the determinant a21 a22 a23
MNa
21

31 a32 a33 Q a31 a32 a33

Notes
and its value is defined to be

a22 a23 a21 a23 a21 a22

a11 × + (_1) a12 × + a13
a32 a33 a31 a33 a31 a32

LM3 6OP , find |A|

Example 4.3 If A =
N1 5Q
3 6 _
Solution : |A| = = 3 × 5 1 × 6 = 15_6 =9
1 5

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

Note : 1. The determinant of a unit matrix I is 1.

2. A square matrix whose determinant is zero, is called the singular matrix.

4.5 EXPANSION OF A DETERMINANT OF ORDER 3

In Section 4.4, we have written

a11 a12 a13

a21 a22 a23 = a a22 a23 a21 a23 a21 a22
11 × a
+ (_1)a12 × + a13 ×
a33 a31 a33 a31 a32
a31 a32 a33 32

which can be further expanded as

a11 a12 a13

a21 a22 a23 = a11 (a22 a33 − a32 a23 ) − a12 (a21a33 − a31a23 ) + a13 (a21a32 − a22 a31 )
a31 a32 a33

= 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 x (20 _ 2) _ 2 × (10 _3) + 3 × (4 _12)

= 18_14_24
= _20
Example 4.6 Expand the determinant, by using the second column

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

= _2 × (3_4) + 1 × (1_ 6) _3 × (2_9)

= 2 _5+ 21
= 18

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 :

LM 5 5 1 OP LM−2 −3 1 OP LM2 3 0 OP LM1 2 3 OP

(a) M P (b) M P (c) M P (d) M P
−5 1 1 3 2 1 3 0 1 3 −1 2
MN10 7 1PQ MN −1 −8 1PQ MN0 2 1PQ MN4 1 5PQ

3. Expand the determinant by using first row

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

4.6 MINORS AND COFACTORS

4.6.1 Minor of aij in |A|
To each element of a determinant, a number called its minor is associated.
The minor of an element is the value of the determinant obtained by deleting the row and
column containing the element.
Thus, the minor of an element aij in |A| is the value of the determinant obtained by deleting
the ith row and jth column of |A| and is denoted by Mij. For example, minor of 3 in the

3 2
determinant is 7.
5 7
Example 4.7 Find the minors of the elements of the determinant

a11 a12 a13

|A| =
a21 a22 a23
a31 a32 a33

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

a21 a23 a21 a22

M12 = = a21a33 _ a23a31 ; M13 = = a21a32 _ a31a22
a31 a33 a31 a32

a12 a13 a11 a13

M21 = = a12a33 _ a32a13 ; M22 = = a11a33_ a31a13
a32 a33 a31 a33

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

a11 a12 a13

|A| =
a21 a22 a23
a31 a32 a33
Solution :
The cofactor of any element aij is (_1)i+j Mij, then
C 11
= (_1)1+1 M = (_1)2 (a a _a a )
11 22 33 32 23

= (a22 a33 _ a32 a23)

C 12 = (_1)1+2 M12 = _M12 = _ (a21 a33 _ a31 a23) = (a31a23_ a21a33)
and C 21 = (_1)2+1 M 21
= _M = (a a _ a a )
21 32 13 12 33

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

The corresponding cofactors will be

C21 = (_1)2+1M21= _(48) = _48
C = (_1)2+2M = +(_13) = _13
22 22

and C23 = (_1)2+3M23= _(_42) = 42

4.7 VALUE OF A DETERMINANT USING COFACTOR

With the cofactor notation, we can give expansion of a determinant in terms of the elements
of any one row or column and their corresponding cofactors.

a11 a12 a13

a
|A| = 21
a22 a23 = a C +a C +a C
11 11 12 12 13 13
a31 a32 a33

= 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

∴ ∆ = 3 × 22 + (_6) × 23 + 8 × (_17) = 66_138_136 = _208

The value of the determinant by both the methods of expansion is _ 208. Thus, we verify
that both the results are same.

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

Let us find out

a11C 21+a12C22+a13C23
= 1 × (_1) + 2 (_7) + 3 × (5)
= _1_14+15 = 0
We can verify this property for any other row or column.
4.8 SARRUS DIAGRAM FOR THE EXPANSION OF
DETERMINANT OF ORDER 3
Another simple method for evaluating a determinant of order 3 is Sarrus diagram.

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)

a22 a23 a21 a23 a21 a22

= a11 _a +a
a32 a33 12 a
31 a33 13 a31 a32
which is equal to the value of given determinant.
Example 4.12 Using Sarrus diagram, find the value of the determinant

−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. Find the minors and cofactors of the elements of the

third column of the determinat

2 3 2
1 2 1
3 1 2

3. Evaluate each of the following determinants using cofactors:

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

4. Using Sarrus diagram, evaluate each of the following determinants:

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

5. Using Sarrus diagram, show that

a h g
h b f = abc + 2fgh _ af2_ bg2 _ ch2
g f c
MATHEMATICS 113
 Determinants and Their Applications

MODULE - I 6. Solve for x, the following equations:

Algebra
x 0 0 x 3 3 x2 x 1
1 2 3 =0 3 3 x =0 0 2 1
(a) (b) (c) = 28
Notes 1 0 2 2 3 3 3 1 4

4.9 PROPERTIES OF DETERMINANTS

We shall now discuss some of the properties of determinants. These properties will help us
in expanding the determinants.

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 (3_0) _ 0 (1_ 6) + 4 (0+9)

= 6 + 36 = 42
Let ∆′ be the determinant obtained by interchanging rows and columns of ∆. Then

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

= 2 (4_3) _ 3 (2_9) + 1 (1_6)

= 2 + 21_ 5 = 18
Let ∆′ be the determinant obtained by interchanging C1 and C2

3 2 1
Then ∆′ =
2 1 3
1 3 2

Expanding the determinant ∆′ by first row, we have

1 3 2 3 2 1
3 _2 +1
3 2 1 2 1 3

= 3 (2_9) _ 2(4 _ 3) + 1(6_1)

= _21_2+5 = _18
Thus we see that ∆′ = _ ∆
Corollary
If any row (or a column) of a determinant is passed over ‘n’ rows (or columns), then the
resulting determinant ∆′ is ∆ = (−1) n ∆

2 3 5 1 5 6
For example ,
1 5 6 = (_1)2
0 4 2
0 4 2 2 3 5

= 2 (10_24) _3 (2_0) + 5(4)

= _28 _6 +20= _14
Property 3: If any two rows (or columns) of a determinant are identical then the value of
the determinant is zero.

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

Expanding the determinant by first row, we have

_ _ _ _
∆ = 2(3 0) 1 (0 0) + ( 5) (0+12 )
_ _
= 6 60 = 54
Let us multiply column 3 of∆ by 4. Then, the new determinant∆′is :

2 1 −20
∆ ′ = 0 −3 0
4 2 −4

Expanding the determinant ∆′ by first row, we have

_ _ _ _
∆′ = 2 (12 0) 1 (0 0) + ( 20) (0+12)
_ _
= 24 240 = 216
=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

Then, on expanding the determinant by the first row, we have

∆ = ( a1 +  )(b2 c3 − b3 c2 ) − (b1 +  )( a2 c3 − a3 c2 ) + (c1 +  )( a2 b3 − a3 b2 )
= a1 (b2 c3 − b3c2 ) − b1 ( a2 c3 − a3c2 ) + c1 ( a2b3 − a3b2 ) + α (b2 c3 − b3c2 )

−β(a2 c3 − a3c2 ) + γ (a2b3 − a3b2 )

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

∆′ be the determinant obtained from ∆ by corresponding elements of R3

i.e. R1 → R1 + kR3

a1 + ka3 b1 + kb3 c1 + kc3

Then, ∆ ′ = a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3

a1 b1 c1 ka3 kb3 kc3

a2 b2 c2 + a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3 a3 b3 c3

a1 b1 c1 a3 b3 c3
∆′ = a 2 b2 c2 + k a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3 a3 b3 c3

or, ∆′ = ∆ + k × 0 (Row 1 and Row 3 are identical)

∆′ = ∆

4.10 EVALUATION OF A DETERMINANT USING PROPERTIES

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

(since w is a non-real cube root of unity, therefore, 1+w+w2 = 0)

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

MODULE - I Expanding by C1, we have

Algebra
1 −b
∆ = (a − c)(b − c)
1 −a
Notes
= ( a − c)(b − c)(b − a )
= ( a − b )(b − c)( c − a )

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

Expanding by R1, we get

c+a b b b b c+a
=0 − ( −2 c ) − 2b
c a +b c a +b c c

= 2c [b(a + b) − bc] − 2b[bc − c(c + a )]

= 2bc [a + b − c] − 2bc[b − c − a ]
= 2bc [(a + b − c) − (b − c − a )]
= 2bc [a + b − c − b + c + a ]
= 4abc

Example 4.16 Evaluate:

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

Example 4.17 Prove that

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

Example 4.18 Show that

−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

Example 4.19 Show that

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)

CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.3

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

a+b b+c c+a a b c

b+c c+a a+b =2 b c a
6. Show that
c+a a+b b+c c a b

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

4.11 SOLUTION OF A SYSTEM OF LINEAR EQUATIONS

BY CRAMER’S RULE
Consider the system of linear equations
a1x+b1y = c1
a2x+b2y = c2
In this section, we shall learn to solve simultaneous linear equations in two unknowns and three
unknowns with the help of determinants.
A pair of values of x and y which satisfies both the equations simultaneously is called a solution
of the given system of linear equations and then the system is said to be consistent.
When the constants c1 and c2 on the R.H.S. of the equations are both zero, the system is said
to be homogeneous system: otherwise, the system is said to be non-homogeneous. When the
system is homogeneous, it has always a solution x = y = 0. It is called a trival solution.

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)

Usually, to find solutions of such a system, we apply the method of elimination.

Thus, first of all solving for y, we get
RS3(2 x + 3y − 5) = 0
T2(3x + 5y − 7) = 0
R 3(2 x) + 3(3y) = 3(5)
⇒S
......(iii )
T2(3x) + 2(5y) = 2(7) .....(iv )
Subtracting (iii) from (iv), we get
{2(5) _ 3(3)} y = 2(7) _ 3(5)

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

MODULE - I Similarly, solving (i) and (ii) for x, we get

Algebra
5(2x + 3y – 5) = 0
3(3x + 5y –7) = 0
Notes
⇒
RS 5(2 x) + 5(3y) − 5(5) = 0 ......(v )
T3(3x) + 3(5y) − 3(7) = 0 .....(vi )
Subtracting (vi) from (v), we get
{5(2) – 3(3) }x = {5(5) – 3(7)}
2 3 5 3
i.e. x=
3 5 7 5

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( x ) − 1(2 x ) = − 3(3) − 1(1)

⇒ k−3(1) − 1(2)px = − 3(3) − 1(1)
1 1 3 1
i.e. x=
2 −3 1 −3

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.

Similarly, solving (i) and (ii) for y, we get

2( x) + 2( y) = 2(3) ...(v)
1(2 x) + 2( −3 y) = 1(1) ...(vi)

Subtracting (v) from (vi), we get

k1( −3) − 2(1)p y = 1(1) − 2(3)
1 1 1 3
i.e., y=
2 −3 2 1
1 3
2 1 D
⇒ y= = 2
1 1 D (say)
2 −3

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

are the solutions of the given equation

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

these to the 1st column, we get

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

Then, as before, we can see that

yD = D2 and zD = D3
D1 D D
Thus, x = , y = 2 , z = 3 , where D ≠ 0
D D D
are the solutions of the given system of linear equations in three variables.
Therefore, if

a1 x + b1 y + c1z = d1
a2 x + b2 y + c2 z = d2
a3 x + b3 y + c3z = d3

is a given system of linear equations in three variables, then

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

are the solutions of the given system, provided

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

Solution: Now, MODULE - I

a1 b1 2 3 Algebra
D= = = 10 − 9 = 1
a2 b2 3 5

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

Also, to find D1, the 1st column will be replaced by constants.

3 1 −3
D1 = 5 2 1 = 3(4 + 5) − 1(10 − 1) − 3( −25 − 2) = 27 − 9 + 81 = 99
1 −5 2

To find, D2, 2nd column will be replaced by constants.

2 3 −3
D2 = 1 5 1 = 2(10 − 1) − 3(2 − 3) − 3(1 − 15) = 18 + 3 + 42 = 63
3 1 2

MATHEMATICS 131
 Determinants and Their Applications

MODULE - I To find D3, 3rd column will be replaced by constants

Algebra 2 1 3
D3 = 1 2 5 = 2(2 + 25) − 1(1 − 15) + 3( −5 − 6) = 35
Notes
3 −5 1

Thus, by Cramer’s Rule

D1 99
x= =
D 52
D 63
y= 2 =
D 52
D3 35
and z= =
D 52

4.12 CONDITION FOR A SYSTEM OF LINEAR

EQUATIONS TO HAVE A UNIQUE SOLUTION
Consider the system of equations
2 x + 3y = 4
x − 2y = 3

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

Now, consider the system of equations MODULE - I

Algebra
x + 2y = 0
−2 x + 3 y = 0
Notes
1 2
Here, D= = 3+ 4 = 7 ≠ 0
−2 3

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.

Consider the system of equations

2x + 4 y = 5
x + 2y = 3

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

Similarly, we get yD = D2 and zD = D3

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.

Now, consider the system of equations

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.

Consider the first two equations,

x − y + 3z = 6
i.e.,
x + 3 y − 3z = − 4

MATHEMATICS 135
 Determinants and Their Applications

MODULE - I These can be written as

Algebra x − y = 6 − 3z
x + 3 y = − 4 + 3z

Notes Solving these equations by determinants, we get

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

Let z = k, where k is any number, then we get

7 − 3k −5 + 3k
x= , y= and z = k
2 2
Thus, the system of equations has many solutions.

So, we conclude that for a given system of equations

(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

Example 4.22 Solve the following system of equations: MODULE - I

Algebra
x+ y+z = 2
2 x + 7 y − 3z = 5
Notes
3x + 5 y − z = 4

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

Since D ≠ 0 and D1 ≠ 0, D2 ≠ 0, D3 ≠ 0, therefore, the system of equations will have

non-zero, unique solution.

Thus, by Cramer’s Rule

D1 6 −3
x= = =
D −10 5
D2 −14 7
y= = =
D −10 5
D3 −12 6
z= = =
D −10 5
are the solutions of the given system of equations.
MATHEMATICS 137
 Determinants and Their Applications

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

Thus, we find that D ≠ 0 and D1 = D2 = D3 = 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

Since D = 0 and D1 ≠ 0, D2 = 0 and D3 ≠ 0

∴ The system of equations has no solution.

(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

CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.4

1. Solve the following systems of equations by Cramer’s Rule
(a) 2x − 4 y = 3 (b) x + 2y = 1
3x + y = 5 2 x + 5y = 3
2. Obtain the solutions of the systems of equations using Cramer’s Rule
(a) 2 x + y + 3z = 1 (b) 2 x − 3 y + 2 z = 1 (c) 3x − 4 y + 5z = − 6
x + 4 y + 6z = 9 x + 3y − z = − 2 x + y − 2z = − 1
4 x + 3y + 9z = 5 x − y + 3z = 3 2 x + 3y + z = 5
3. Solve the following systems of equations:
(a) 3x + 2 y = 4 (b) 6x − 3y = − 1
2x + y = 3 2x + 2 y = − 3
(c) 2 x + 3y + 4z = 8 (d) x + 3y − z = 4
3x + y − z = − 2 3x − 2 y + 5z = − 4
4 x − y − 5z = − 9 5x − y − 4 z = − 9
4. Determine which of the following systems of equations will have a unique solution.
Also, find the solution in such a case.

(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

• With each square matrix, a determinant of the matrix can be associated.

• The minor of any element in a determinant is obtained from the given determinant by
deleting the row and column in which the element lies.

• The cofactor of an element aij in a determinant is the minor of aij multiplied by

( − 1)i+j
MATHEMATICS 141
 Determinants and Their Applications

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

• The 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

142 MATHEMATICS
 Determinants and Their Applications

(a) is consistent and has unique solution, when D ≠ 0

MODULE - I
Algebra
(b) is inconsistent and has no solution, when D = 0, and D1 , D2 , D3 are not all zero.

(c) is consistent and has infinitely many solutions, when D = D1 = D2 = D3 = 0 .

Notes

SUPPORTIVE WEB SITES

http://www.wikipedia.org
http://mathworld.wolfram.com

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

,w being an imaginary cube-root of unity

7. Using Cramer’s rule, solve the following system of linear equations:

(a) x − 2y = 3 (b) 2 x − 3y = 3 (c) x+ y = 2
2 x + 3y = 4 3x + 2 y = 11 4 x − 3y = 3

8. Using Cramer’s rule, solve the following systems of equations:

(a) 2 x + y + 3z = 8 (b) x − 2y = 3+ z
3x + 2 y + 3 = z 2x + z = y
x + 3z = 1 + 2 y 3 − x = 2z − 3y

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)

2. (a) and (d)

3. (a) 18 (b) _54 (c) adf + 2bce − ae 2 − fb 2 − de 2

(d) x − 1

CHECK YOUR PROGRESS 4.2

1. M 21 = 39; C21 = − 39 2. M13 = − 5; C13 = − 5
M 22 = 3; C22 = 3 M 23 = − 7; C23 = 7
M 23 = − 11; C23 = 11 M 33 = 1; C33 = 1

3. (a) 19 (b) 0 (c) –131

(d) ( a − b)(b − c)( c − a ) (e) 4abc (f) 0

4. (a) 4 (b) 20 (c) a 2 + b 2 + c 2 + 1

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