SOCIOLOGY | CSE (MAINS) TEST SERIES-2023

CSE (MAINS) TEST

SERIES-2026

MATHEMATICS OPTIONAL
MODEL ANSWERS : TEST-1

[Link]
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR

1a. Let 𝑉 be a finite-dimensional vector space over a field 𝐹.

We shall prove that there exists a basis for 𝑉.
Since 𝑉 is finite-dimensional, by definition there exists a finite spanning set for 𝑉.
Let
𝑆 = {𝑣 , 𝑣 , … , 𝑣 } be a finite set of vectors that spans 𝑉.
Now two cases arise:
Case 1: 𝑆 is linearly independent
Then 𝑆 is both:

 linearly independent

 spanning
Hence 𝑆 itself is a basis of 𝑉.
Case 2: 𝑆 is linearly dependent
Then one of the vectors of 𝑆 can be expressed as a linear combination of the others.
Suppose 𝑣 = 𝑎 𝑣 + 𝑎 𝑣 + ⋯+ 𝑎 𝑣 +𝑎 𝑣 + ⋯+ 𝑎 𝑣 for some scalars 𝑎 .
Therefore 𝑣 is redundant for spanning 𝑉, and so the set
𝑆 = 𝑆 − {𝑣 } still spans 𝑉.
If 𝑆 is linearly independent, then it is a basis.
If not, repeat the same process: remove another redundant vector.
Since the original set contains only finitely many vectors, this process must terminate after finitely many steps.
Thus, we eventually obtain a set
𝐵 = {𝑢 , 𝑢 , … , 𝑢 }
such that:
1. 𝐵 spans 𝑉
2. 𝐵 is linearly independent
Hence 𝐵 is a basis of 𝑉.
Therefore, every finite-dimensional vector space possesses a basis.

Hence proved.

(b) Given
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
𝑇(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = (2𝑥, 4𝑥 − 𝑦, 2𝑥 + 3𝑦 − 𝑧)
The matrix of 𝑇 is
2 0 0
𝐴 = 4 −1 0
2 3 −1
Finding 𝑇 directly from matrix

We compute 𝐴 (using calculator)

1
0 0
𝐴 = 2
2 −1 0
7 −3 −1
Hence
𝑥
𝑇 (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = , 2𝑥 − 𝑦, 7𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 𝑧
2

Finding 𝑇

𝐴 =𝐴⋅𝐴
2 0 0 2 0 0
= 4 −1 0 4 −1 0
2 3 −1 2 3 −1
4 0 0
𝐴 = 4 1 0
14 −6 1
Therefore

𝑇 (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = (4𝑥, 4𝑥 + 𝑦, 14𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 𝑧)

𝟐
Finding 𝑻

𝑇 ↔ (𝐴 )

1
0 0
= 2
2 −1 0
7 −3 −1

1
0 0
⎛ 4 ⎞
= ⎜ −1 1 0⎟
19
− 6 1
⎝ 2 ⎠
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Hence

𝑥 19
𝑇 (𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = , −𝑥 + 𝑦, − 𝑥 + 6𝑦 + 𝑧
4 2

(c) Statement: If 𝑉 is finite-dimensional and 𝑓: 𝑉 → 𝑉 is onto, prove that 𝑓 is one-one.

By Rank-Nullity Theorem,
dim𝑉 = dim(ker𝑓) + dim(Im 𝑓)
Since 𝑓 is onto,
Im 𝑓 = 𝑉
Hence
dim(Im 𝑓) = dim𝑉
Therefore
dim𝑉 = dim(ker𝑓) + dim𝑉
So
dim(ker𝑓) = 0
Thus
ker𝑓 = {0}
Hence 𝑓 is one-one.
Since 𝑓 is both onto and one-one, it is an isomorphism.

Hence proved

0 1
(d) Matrix is 𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏
We have to find second row so that eigenvalues are 4 and 7.
We know that product of eigen values is determinant of the matrix and trace is sum of the eigen values.
Hence, 𝑏 = 4 + 7 = 11 𝑎𝑛𝑑 det 𝐴 = −𝑎 = 28
Therefore, the required second row is

(−28, 11)

(e) Show that 𝐴𝐵 − 𝐵𝐴 = 𝐼 cannot hold for matrices of same order.

Proof
Take trace on both sides.
tr(𝐴𝐵 − 𝐵𝐴) = tr(𝐼 )
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Using property of trace:
tr(𝐴𝐵) = tr(𝐵𝐴)
Hence
tr(𝐴𝐵 − 𝐵𝐴) = 0
But
tr(𝐼 ) = 𝑛
Thus
0=𝑛
which is impossible for positive integer 𝑛.
Hence no such matrices 𝐴, 𝐵 exist.
Therefore

𝐴𝐵 − 𝐵𝐴 ≠ 𝐼

for matrices of same order.

Question 2(a)

Show that the set 𝑺 = {(𝟏, 𝟐, 𝟎, 𝟑), (𝟒, 𝟎, 𝟓, 𝟖), (𝟖, 𝟏, 𝟓, 𝟔)} is linearly independent in ℝ𝟒 . Hence construct an
orthonormal basis for the subspace spanned by them.
Step 1: To prove linear independence
Let
𝑎(1,2,0,3) + 𝑏(4,0,5,8) + 𝑐(8,1,5,6) = 0
This gives system:
𝑎 + 4𝑏 + 8𝑐 = 0
2𝑎 + 𝑐 = 0
5𝑏 + 5𝑐 = 0
3𝑎 + 8𝑏 + 6𝑐 = 0
On solving (use calculator):
𝑎=𝑏=𝑐=0
Therefore, vectors are linearly independent.

Thus, they form a basis of a 3-dimensional subspace 𝑉 ⊂ ℝ .

 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Step 2: Apply Gram-Schmidt process
Let
𝑣 = (1,2,0,3), 𝑣 = (4,0,5,8), 𝑣 = (8,1,5,6)

First orthogonal vector

𝑢 = 𝑣 = (1,2,0,3)
Norm:

∥ 𝑢 ∥= √1 + 4 + 9 = √14
So
1
𝑒 = (1,2,0,3)
√14

Second orthogonal vector

Projection:
𝑣 ⋅𝑢
proj 𝑣 = 𝑢
𝑢 ⋅𝑢
Now
𝑣 ⋅ 𝑢 = 4 + 24 = 28
𝑢 ⋅ 𝑢 = 14
Hence
proj 𝑣 = 2𝑢 = (2,4,0,6)

Thus
𝑢 = 𝑣 − 2𝑢 = (2, −4,5,2)
Norm:

∥ 𝑢 ∥= √4 + 16 + 25 + 4 = √49 = 7
So
1
𝑒 = (2, −4,5,2)
7
Third orthogonal vector
𝑢 = 𝑣 − proj 𝑣 − proj 𝑣
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
First projection
𝑣 ⋅ 𝑢 = 8 + 2 + 18 = 28
proj 𝑣 = 2𝑢 = (2,4,0,6)

Second projection
𝑣 ⋅ 𝑢 = 16 − 4 + 25 + 12 = 49
𝑢 ⋅ 𝑢 = 49
So
proj 𝑣 = 𝑢 = (2, −4,5,2)

Hence
𝑢 = (8,1,5,6) − (2,4,0,6) − (2, −4,5,2)
𝑢 = (4,1,0, −2)
Norm:

∥ 𝑢 ∥= √16 + 1 + 4 = √21
Thus
1
𝑒 = (4,1,0, −2)
√21
Required orthonormal basis:

𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
(𝟏, 𝟐, 𝟎, 𝟑), (𝟐, −𝟒, 𝟓, 𝟐), (𝟒, 𝟏, 𝟎, −𝟐)
√𝟏𝟒 𝟕 √𝟐𝟏

2 1 − 2𝑖
Question 2(b) Diagonalize 𝐴 =
1 + 2𝑖 −2
Characteristic equation:
|𝐴 − 𝜆𝐼| = 0

∣∣ 2 − 𝜆 1 − 2𝑖 ∣
∣=0
∣1 + 2𝑖 −2 − 𝜆 ∣
(2 − 𝜆)(−2 − 𝜆) = 𝜆 − 4
Thus
𝜆 = ±3
So, eigenvalues are

3, −3
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Eigenvector for 𝜆 = 3
Solve
(𝐴 − 3𝐼)𝑋 = 0
−1 1 − 2𝑖
𝑋=0
1 + 2𝑖 −5
From first row:
−𝑥 + (1 − 2𝑖)𝑦 = 0
𝑥 = (1 − 2𝑖)𝑦
Take
𝑦=1
Then
𝑥 = 1 − 2𝑖
1 − 2𝑖
Eigenvector: 𝑣 =
1
Eigenvector for 𝜆 = −3
Solve
(𝐴 + 3𝐼)𝑋 = 0
5 1 − 2𝑖
𝑋=0
1 + 2𝑖 1
From second row:
(1 + 2𝑖)𝑥 + 𝑦 = 0
𝑦 = −(1 + 2𝑖)𝑥
Take
𝑥=1
Then
𝑦 = −(1 + 2𝑖)
Eigenvector:
1
𝑣 =
−(1 + 2𝑖)
Form matrices:
1 − 2𝑖 1
𝑃=
1 −(1 + 2𝑖)
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
3 0
𝐷=
0 −3
Hence

𝐴 = 𝑃𝐷𝑃
This is the diagonalized form.
Question 2(c) Show that
𝑓(𝑥) = sin𝑥, 𝑔(𝑥) = sin(𝑥 + 𝑝), ℎ(𝑥) = cos(𝑥 + 𝑞) are linearly dependent.
Proof
Using trigonometric identities:
sin(𝑥 + 𝑝) = sin𝑥cos𝑝 + cos𝑥sin𝑝
and
cos(𝑥 + 𝑞) = cos𝑥cos𝑞 − sin𝑥sin𝑞
Thus
𝑔(𝑥) = cos𝑝 𝑓(𝑥) + sin𝑝 cos𝑥
Also
ℎ(𝑥) = cos𝑞 cos𝑥 − sin𝑞 𝑓(𝑥)
Now solve second equation for cos𝑥:
ℎ(𝑥) + sin𝑞 𝑓(𝑥)
cos𝑥 =
cos𝑞
(Substitute assuming cos𝑞 ≠ 0; special case also follows similarly.)
Substitute into first:
ℎ(𝑥) + sin𝑞 𝑓(𝑥)
𝑔(𝑥) = cos𝑝 𝑓(𝑥) + sin𝑝
cos𝑞
Rearranging,
sin𝑝 sin𝑝sin𝑞
𝑔(𝑥) − ℎ(𝑥) − cos𝑝 + 𝑓(𝑥) = 0
cos𝑞 cos𝑞
This is a nontrivial linear relation among 𝑓, 𝑔, ℎ.
Hence, they are linearly dependent.
Therefore

𝑓(𝑥), 𝑔(𝑥), ℎ(𝑥) are linearly dependent

 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Question 3(a): Prove that the product of two Hermitian matrices 𝐴, 𝐵 is Hermitian iff 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴.
Proof
A matrix 𝑀 is Hermitian iff 𝑀∗ = 𝑀, where 𝑀∗ denotes conjugate transpose.
Since 𝐴, 𝐵 are Hermitian,
𝐴∗ = 𝐴, 𝐵∗ = 𝐵
We must prove:
𝐴𝐵 is Hermitian ⇔ 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴
Necessary condition
Suppose 𝐴𝐵 is Hermitian.
Then
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐴𝐵
But
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐵 ∗ 𝐴∗
Since 𝐴, 𝐵 are Hermitian,
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐵𝐴
Hence
𝐵𝐴 = 𝐴𝐵
Thus
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴
Sufficient condition
Suppose
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴
Then
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐵 ∗ 𝐴∗
Since 𝐴, 𝐵 are Hermitian,
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐵𝐴
But
𝐵𝐴 = 𝐴𝐵
Therefore
(𝐴𝐵)∗ = 𝐴𝐵
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Hence 𝐴𝐵 is Hermitian.
Thus

𝐴𝐵 is Hermitian iff 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴

Example of symmetric 3 × 3 matrices

Take
1 1 0
𝐴= 1 1 0
0 0 2
and
2 3 0
𝐵= 3 2 0
0 0 1
Both are symmetric since

𝐴 = 𝐴, 𝐵 =𝐵
Compute 𝐴𝐵
5 5 0
𝐴𝐵 = 5 5 0
0 0 2
Clearly symmetric.
Compute 𝐵𝐴
5 5 0
𝐵𝐴 = 5 5 0
0 0 2
Hence
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐵𝐴
So, they commute.
Question 3(b) Prove that a linear transformation 𝑌 = 𝐴𝑋 preserves lengths iff 𝐴 is orthogonal.
We must prove:
∥ 𝐴𝑋 ∥=∥ 𝑋 ∥ ∀𝑋

Iff 𝐴 𝐴 = 𝐼.
Necessary condition
Assume length is preserved.
Then
∥ 𝐴𝑋 ∥=∥ 𝑋 ∥
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Squaring:

(𝐴𝑋) (𝐴𝑋) = 𝑋 𝑋

𝑋 𝐴 𝐴𝑋 = 𝑋 𝑋

𝑋 (𝐴 𝐴 − 𝐼)𝑋 = 0 for all 𝑋.

This implies

𝐴 𝐴−𝐼 =0
Hence

𝐴 𝐴=𝐼
Thus 𝐴 is orthogonal.

Sufficient condition
Assume 𝐴 is orthogonal:

𝐴 𝐴=𝐼
Then

∥ 𝐴𝑋 ∥ = (𝐴𝑋) (𝐴𝑋)

= 𝑋 𝐴 𝐴𝑋

= 𝑋 𝐼𝑋

=𝑋 𝑋

=∥ 𝑋 ∥
Hence
∥ 𝐴𝑋 ∥=∥ 𝑋 ∥
Thus, lengths are preserved.
Therefore

A linear transformation preserves lengths iff 𝐴 is orthogonal

Question 3(c)
A linear transformation 𝑌 = 𝐴𝑋 carries
1 2
𝑋 = 0 ↦ 3
1 −1
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
1 3
𝑋 = −1 ↦ 0
1 −2
1 −2
𝑋 = 2 ↦ 7
−1 −1
Find images of 𝑒 , 𝑒 , 𝑒 and equation of transformation.
Solution:
Let
1 1 1
𝑃(𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑏𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑥) = 0 −1 2
1 1 −1
and
2 3 −2
[𝑇] = 3 0 7
−1 −2 −1
Then
[𝑇] 𝑃 = [𝑇]
Hence
[𝑇] = [𝑇] 𝑃

Find 𝑃

1 1 2 3
𝑃 = 2 −2 −2
6
1 2 −1
Compute 𝐴
[𝑇] = [𝑇] 𝑃
After multiplication,
1 −2 2
5 20
⎛ 2⎞
[𝑇] =⎜ 3 3 ⎟
5
− 0 −2
⎝ 3 ⎠

Images of standard basis vectors

Since columns of 𝐴 are images of basis vectors:
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Image of 𝑒
1
5
⎛ ⎞
𝑇(𝑒 ) = ⎜ 3 ⎟
5
−
⎝ 3⎠

Image of 𝑒
−2
20
𝑇(𝑒 ) =
3
0
Image of 𝑒
2
𝑇(𝑒 ) = 2
−2

Equation of transformation
If
𝑥
𝑋= 𝑦
𝑧
then
𝑌 = [𝑇] 𝑋
i.e.
1 −2 2
𝑥 5 20 𝑥
⎛ 2⎞
𝑦 =⎜ 3 3 ⎟ 𝑦
𝑧 5 𝑧
− 0 −2
⎝ 3 ⎠
Therefore

𝑥 = 𝑥 − 2𝑦 + 2𝑧

5 20
𝑦 = 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 2𝑧
3 3

5
𝑧 = − 𝑥 − 2𝑧
3
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Question 4(a) Find values of 𝜆 and 𝜇 such that the system
𝑥+𝑦+𝑧 =6
𝑥 + 2𝑦 + 3𝑧 = 10
𝑥 + 2𝑦 + 𝜆𝑧 = 𝜇
has:
(i) No solution
(ii) Unique solution
(iii) Infinitely many solutions
Write augmented matrix (M)
1 1 1 6
1 2 3 10
1 2 𝜆 𝜇
Apply row operations (reduce to echelon form):
𝑅 →𝑅 −𝑅
𝑅 →𝑅 −𝑅
1 1 1 6
0 1 2 4
0 1 𝜆−1 𝜇−6
Now
𝑅 →𝑅 −𝑅
1 1 1 6
0 1 2 4
0 0 𝜆 − 3 𝜇 − 10
Case 1: Unique solution
For unique solution coefficient matrix must be nonsingular:
𝜆−3≠0
Thus

𝜆 ≠ 3 (𝜇 arbitrary)
Case 2: Infinite solutions
Need
𝜆−3=0
and
𝜇 − 10 = 0
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Hence

𝜆 = 3, 𝜇 = 10

Case 3: No solution
Need inconsistent row:
0 = non-zero
So
𝜆−3=0
and
𝜇 − 10 ≠ 0
Thus

𝜆 = 3, 𝜇 ≠ 10

Final Answer
(i) No solution

𝜆 = 3, 𝜇 ≠ 10

(ii) Unique solution

𝜆≠3
(iii) Infinite solutions

𝜆 = 3, 𝜇 = 10

Question 4(b)
For the companion matrix
0 1 0 ⋯ 0
⎛ 0 0 1 ⋯ 0 ⎞
𝐶=⎜ ⋮ ⋮ ⋮ ⋮ ⎟
0 0 0 ⋯ 1
⎝−𝑎 −𝑎 −𝑎 ⋯ −𝑎 ⎠
of the polynomial

𝜙(𝜆) = 𝜆 + 𝑎 𝜆 + ⋯+ 𝑎 𝜆 + 𝑎
prove:
1. Characteristic polynomial is 𝜙(𝜆)
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
2. If 𝜆 is an eigenvalue, then
1
𝜆
⎛ ⎞
𝑥 = ⎜ 𝜆 ⎟ is corresponding eigenvector.
⋮
⎝𝜆 ⎠
Part (i)
Show characteristic polynomial is 𝜙(𝜆)
We compute
|𝐶 − 𝜆𝐼|

∣ −𝜆 1 0 ⋯ 0 ∣
∣ 0 −𝜆 1 ⋯ 0 ∣
∣ ∣
= ∣∣ ⋮ ⋱ ⋱ ⋮ ∣
∣
∣ 0 0 ⋯ −𝜆 1 ∣
∣ ∣
∣−𝑎 −𝑎 ⋯ −𝑎 −(𝑎 + 𝜆)∣
Expanding recursively gives

(−1) (𝜆 + 𝑎 𝜆 + ⋯+ 𝑎 𝜆 +𝑎 )
Hence characteristic equation is

𝜆 +𝑎 𝜆 +⋯+ 𝑎 𝜆 + 𝑎 = 0
Therefore, characteristic polynomial is

𝜙(𝜆)

Part (ii)
1
𝜆
⎛ ⎞
Show that 𝑥 = ⎜ 𝜆 ⎟ is an eigenvector.
⋮
⎝𝜆 ⎠
Compute 𝐶𝑥 :
Multiplying:
𝜆
⎛ 𝜆 ⎞
𝐶𝑥 = ⎜ ⋮ ⎟
𝜆
⎝−(𝑎 + 𝑎 𝜆 + ⋯ + 𝑎 𝜆 )⎠

Since 𝜆 is eigenvalue,
𝜙(𝜆 ) = 0
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Thus

𝜆 +𝑎 𝜆 +⋯+ 𝑎 𝜆 + 𝑎 = 0
Hence

−(𝑎 + 𝑎 𝜆 + ⋯ + 𝑎 𝜆 )=𝜆
So
𝜆
𝜆
𝐶𝑥 =
⋮
𝜆
But
𝜆
𝜆
𝜆𝑥 =
⋮
𝜆
Therefore
𝐶𝑥 = 𝜆 𝑥
Hence 𝑥 is eigenvector corresponding to eigenvalue 𝜆 .

4(b) (iii) Given that 𝜆 , 𝜆 , … , 𝜆 are distinct eigenvalues of 𝐶, from part (ii), the corresponding eigenvectors are
1
𝜆
⎛ ⎞
𝑥 =⎜ 𝜆 ⎟
⋮
⎝𝜆 ⎠
Hence form the matrix
1 1 ⋯ 1
𝜆 𝜆 ⋯ 𝜆
⎛ ⎞
𝑉=⎜ 𝜆 𝜆 ⋯ 𝜆 ⎟
⋮ ⋮ ⋮
⎝𝜆 𝜆 ⋯ 𝜆 ⎠
Then the 𝑖-th column of 𝑉 is an eigenvector corresponding to 𝜆 .
Therefore,
𝐶𝑉 = (𝐶𝑥 𝐶𝑥 ⋯ 𝐶𝑥 )

= (𝜆 𝑥 𝜆 𝑥 ⋯ 𝜆 𝑥 )
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Hence
𝜆 0 ⋯ 0
0 𝜆 ⋯ 0
𝐶𝑉 = 𝑉
⋮ ⋮ ⋮
0 0 ⋯ 𝜆
Thus,
𝐶𝑉 = 𝑉𝐷
where
𝐷 = diag(𝜆 , 𝜆 , … , 𝜆 )
Since 𝜆 , 𝜆 , … , 𝜆 are distinct,

|𝑉| = (𝜆 −𝜆 ) ≠ 0

So 𝑉 is non-singular.
Therefore,

𝑉 𝐶𝑉 = diag(𝜆 , 𝜆 , … , 𝜆 )

1 0 0 𝑖
4(c) Given 𝐴 = , 𝐵= , Test for congruency
0 −1 −𝑖 0
Solution:
To test whether the two matrices 𝐴 and 𝐵 are congruent, we need to determine if there exists an invertible matrix 𝑃 such
that 𝑃∗ 𝐴𝑃 = 𝐵 (or 𝑃 𝐴𝑃 = 𝐵 if we are restricting our scope to real transformations, though the presence of 𝑖 implies we
are working over the complex field, so we use the conjugate transpose 𝑃∗ ).
For complex Hermitian matrices, two matrices are congruent if and only if they have the exact same inertia—meaning the
same number of positive, negative, and zero eigenvalues (Sylvester's Law of Inertia).
Here,
1 0 0 𝑖
𝐴= , 𝐵=
0 −1 −𝑖 0
Matrix 𝐴 is already in a diagonal form.

 It is a Hermitian matrix (𝐴∗ = 𝐴).

 Its eigenvalues are explicitly visible on the diagonal: 𝜆 = 1 and 𝜆 = −1.

Inertia of 𝐴:

 Positive eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 1

 Negative eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 1

 Zero eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 0
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Analyze Matrix 𝐵
∗
0 𝑖 0 𝑖
𝐵∗ = = 0 −𝑖 = =𝐵
−𝑖 0 𝑖 0 −𝑖 0
Since 𝐵 is Hermitian, we can safely apply Sylvester's Law of Inertia by finding its eigenvalues.
−𝜆 𝑖
det =0
−𝑖 −𝜆
𝜆 − (1) = 0 ⟹ 𝜆 = 1
Thus, the eigenvalues for 𝐵 are 𝜆 = 1 and 𝜆 = −1.
Inertia of 𝐵:

 Positive eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 1

 Negative eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 1

 Zero eigenvalues (𝑛 ): 0
Result: The matrices 𝐴 and 𝐵 are congruent over the complex field.
Second part: Prove that

𝐴 =𝐵 =𝐼
First,

1 0 1 0
𝐴 = = =𝐼
0 −1 0 1
Hence

𝐴 = (𝐴 ) = 𝐼 = 𝐼
Now,
0 𝑖 0 𝑖
𝐵 =
−𝑖 0 −𝑖 0
1 0
= =𝐼
0 1
Hence

𝐵 = (𝐵 ) =𝐼 =𝐼
Therefore,

𝐴 =𝐵 =𝐼
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Section B
5(a) Given
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥, −1 ≤ 𝑥 < 1 and 𝑓(𝑥 + 2) = 𝑓(𝑥).
Thus 𝑓 is periodic with period 2.
We have to show that 𝑓 is discontinuous at every odd integer.
Let 𝑎 be an odd integer. Then
𝑎 = 2𝑘 + 1
for some integer 𝑘.
Since 𝑓 has period 2, behaviour near every odd integer is the same as behaviour near 1.
At 𝑥 = 1,
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 1
→

because for −1 ≤ 𝑥 < 1,

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥
But
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −1
→ →

because values just to the right of 1 are shifted back by period 2.

Thus
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 1
→

and
lim 𝑓(𝑥) = −1
→

Since left-hand and right-hand limits are unequal, 𝑓 is discontinuous at 1.

By periodicity, the same is true at every odd integer.
Hence

𝑓 is discontinuous at every odd integer.

5(b) Evaluate
2 + cos𝑥 3
lim −
→ 𝑥 sin𝑥 𝑥
Taking common denominator,
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2 + cos𝑥 3 𝑥(2 + cos𝑥) − 3sin𝑥
− =
𝑥 sin𝑥 𝑥 𝑥 sin𝑥
Now use expansions:

𝑥 𝑥
cos𝑥 = 1 − + +⋯
2 24
𝑥 𝑥
sin𝑥 = 𝑥 − + +⋯
6 120
So,

𝑥 𝑥
𝑥(2 + cos𝑥) = 𝑥 3 − + +⋯
2 24

𝑥 𝑥
= 3𝑥 − + +⋯
2 24
Also,

𝑥 𝑥
3sin𝑥 = 3𝑥 − + +⋯
2 40
Therefore,

𝑥 𝑥
𝑥(2 + cos𝑥) − 3sin𝑥 = − +⋯
24 40
𝑥
= +⋯
60
And
𝑥
𝑥 sin𝑥 = 𝑥 𝑥− +⋯ =𝑥 +⋯
6

Hence
2 + cos𝑥 3 1
lim − =
→ 𝑥 sin𝑥 𝑥 60
1
60

5(c) Given
𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥(𝑥 − 1)(𝑥 − 2)
1
𝑎 = 0, 𝑏=
2
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By Mean Value Theorem, there exists 𝑐 ∈ (0, ) such that

𝑓(𝑏) − 𝑓(𝑎)
𝑓 (𝑐) =
𝑏−𝑎
Now,

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 2𝑥
So,

𝑓 (𝑥) = 3𝑥 − 6𝑥 + 2
Also,
𝑓(0) = 0
and
1 1 1 3 3
𝑓 = − − =
2 2 2 2 8
Thus,
3
𝑓(𝑏) − 𝑓(𝑎) 8 − 0 3
= =
𝑏−𝑎 1
−0 4
2
Therefore,
3
𝑓 (𝑐) =
4
3
3𝑐 − 6𝑐 + 2 =
4
√21
𝑐=1±
6

Since 𝑐 ∈ (0, ),

√21
𝑐=1−
6

5(d) Given
𝑓(𝑥, 𝑦) = |𝑥| + |𝑦|.
At (0,0),
𝑓(0,0) = 0.
If 𝑓 is differentiable at (0,0), then
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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𝑓(𝑥, 𝑦) − 𝑓(0,0) = 𝐴𝑥 + 𝐵𝑦 + 𝑜 𝑥 +𝑦 .

𝑓(ℎ, 0) − 𝑓(0,0) |ℎ|

𝐴 = 𝑓 (0,0) = lim = lim .
→ ℎ → ℎ

This limit does not exist.

Therefore 𝑓 (0,0) does not exist.
Hence 𝑓 cannot be differentiable at (0,0).

𝑓(𝑥, 𝑦) = |𝑥| + |𝑦| is not differentiable at (0,0).

5(e) Test convergence of

sin(1/𝑥)
𝑑𝑥
√𝑥
The integrand is improper at 𝑥 = 0.
Let
1
𝑡=
𝑥
Thus,

sin(1/𝑥) sin𝑡 1
𝑑𝑥 = − 𝑑𝑡
√𝑥 1/√𝑡 𝑡

sin𝑡
= 𝑑𝑡
𝑡 /

Now,
sin𝑡 1
/
≤ /
𝑡 𝑡
and
1
/
𝑑𝑡
𝑡

is convergent because 𝑝 = > 1.

Therefore, by comparison test,

sin𝑡
𝑑𝑡
𝑡 /
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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is absolutely convergent.
Hence,

sin(1/𝑥)
𝑑𝑥 is convergent.
√𝑥

6. (a)

For the folium 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 3𝑎𝑥𝑦,

put
3𝑎𝑡 3𝑎𝑡
𝑥= , 𝑦= .
1+𝑡 1+𝑡
Also, its asymptote is
𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑎 = 0.
For a parametric curve, area is
1
𝐴 = ∫ (𝑥 𝑑𝑦 − 𝑦 𝑑𝑥).
2
Now,
1 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑥 9𝑎 𝑡
𝑥 −𝑦 = .
2 𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡 2(1 + 𝑡 )
Area of loop
The loop is traced for
0 ≤ 𝑡 ≤ ∞.
Hence

9𝑎 𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑑𝑡.
2(1 + 𝑡 )

Put
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𝑢 =1+𝑡 .
Then

𝑑𝑢 = 3𝑡 𝑑𝑡.
Therefore,

9𝑎 𝑡
𝐴 = 𝑑𝑡
2 (1 + 𝑡 )

9𝑎 1 𝑑𝑢
= ⋅
2 3 𝑢

3𝑎 1
= −
2 𝑢
3𝑎
= .
2
Thus,

3𝑎
𝐴 = .
2
Area between the folium and its asymptote
The infinite branch of the folium is traced for
−∞ < 𝑡 < −1
and
−1 < 𝑡 < 0.
The asymptote corresponding to these branches is
𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑎 = 0.

9𝑎 𝑡 9𝑎 𝑡
𝐴 = lim 𝑑𝑡 + 𝑑𝑡 + area contribution of the asymptote .
→ 2(1 + 𝑡 ) 2(1 + 𝑡 )

The divergent parts cancel with the contribution from the asymptote, and the remaining finite value is

3𝑎
𝐴 = .
2
Therefore,

3𝑎
𝐴 = .
2
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Hence,

Area between the folium and its asymptote = area of its loop.

Both areas are equal to

3𝑎
.
2

6. (b)
Given

𝑒 𝑓(𝑥) = 2 + 𝑡 + 1 𝑑𝑡.

So,

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑒 2+ 𝑡 + 1 𝑑𝑡 .

We need
(𝑓 ) (2).
Now,

𝑓(0) = 𝑒 2+ 𝑡 + 1 𝑑𝑡 = 2.

Therefore,

𝑓 (2) = 0.
Using the inverse derivative formula,
1
(𝑓 ) (2) = .
𝑓 (𝑓 (2))
Hence,
1
(𝑓 ) (2) = .
𝑓 (0)
Now,

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑒 2+ 𝑡 + 1 𝑑𝑡 .
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Differentiating,

𝑓 (𝑥) = 𝑒 2+ 𝑡 + 1 𝑑𝑡 + 𝑒 𝑥 + 1.

Therefore,

𝑓 (0) = 𝑒 (2 + 0) + 𝑒 0 + 1.
𝑓 (0) = 2 + 1 = 3.

Thus, (𝑓 ) (2) =

6. (c)
Suppose that the equation

𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 𝑘 = 0
has two distinct roots 𝛼, 𝛽 ∈ [−1,1], where 𝛼 < 𝛽.
Define

𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑥 − 3𝑥 + 𝑘.
Then 𝑓 is continuous on [𝛼, 𝛽] and differentiable on (𝛼, 𝛽). Also,
𝑓(𝛼) = 𝑓(𝛽) = 0.
By Rolle’s theorem, there exists 𝑐 ∈ (𝛼, 𝛽) ⊂ (−1,1) such that
𝑓 (𝑐) = 0.
But

𝑓 (𝑥) = 3𝑥 − 3 = 3(𝑥 − 1).

Thus,

𝑓 (𝑐) = 0 ⟹ 𝑐 = 1 ⟹ 𝑐 = ±1.
This is impossible because 𝑐 ∈ (−1,1).
Hence, no such 𝑘 exists.
7. (a) Evaluate

𝑎 𝑏 −𝑏 𝑥 −𝑎 𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦,
𝑎 𝑏 +𝑏 𝑥 +𝑎 𝑦

where 𝐸 is the positive quadrant of + = 1.

Put
𝑥 = 𝑎𝑟cos𝜃, 𝑦 = 𝑏𝑟sin𝜃.
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Then
𝜋
0 ≤ 𝑟 ≤ 1, 0≤𝜃≤ ,
2
and
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑎𝑏 𝑟 𝑑𝑟 𝑑𝜃.
Therefore, the integral becomes

/
1−𝑟
𝑎𝑏 𝑟 𝑑𝑟 𝑑𝜃.
1+𝑟

So,

𝜋 1−𝑟
𝐼 = 𝑎𝑏 ⋅ 𝑟 𝑑𝑟.
2 1+𝑟

Put 𝑢 = 𝑟 , so that 𝑑𝑢 = 2𝑟 𝑑𝑟. Then

1−𝑟 1 1−𝑢 𝜋 1
𝑟 𝑑𝑟 = 𝑑𝑢 = − .
1+𝑟 2 1+𝑢 4 2

Hence,
𝜋 𝜋 1
𝐼 = 𝑎𝑏 ⋅ − .
2 4 2
Therefore,

𝑎𝑏𝜋(𝜋 − 2)
𝐼= .
8
7. (b) Given

𝑢 = sin 𝑥 + sin 𝑦
and

𝑣 =𝑥 1−𝑦 +𝑦 1−𝑥
Let

𝛼 = sin 𝑥, 𝛽 = sin 𝑦
Then
𝑥 = sin𝛼, 𝑦 = sin𝛽
Also,

1 − 𝑥 = cos𝛼, 1 − 𝑦 = cos𝛽
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Therefore,

𝑣 =𝑥 1−𝑦 +𝑦 1−𝑥

= sin𝛼cos𝛽 + sin𝛽cos𝛼
= sin(𝛼 + 𝛽)
But
𝑢 = 𝛼+𝛽
Hence
𝑣 = sin𝑢
Therefore, the functional relation is

𝑣 = sin𝑢
or

𝑣 − sin𝑢 = 0

7. (c)
Given
𝑥 −𝑦
𝑥𝑦 , (𝑥, 𝑦) ≠ (0,0),
𝑓(𝑥, 𝑦) = 𝑥 +𝑦
0, (𝑥, 𝑦) = (0,0).
First,
𝑓(ℎ, 0) − 𝑓(0,0)
𝑓 (0,0) = lim = 0,
→ ℎ
and
𝑓(0, 𝑘) − 𝑓(0,0)
𝑓 (0,0) = lim = 0.
→ 𝑘
Now,
𝑓 (ℎ, 0) − 𝑓 (0,0)
𝑓 (0,0) = lim .
→ ℎ
Since 𝑓(𝑥, 0) = 0, we get
𝑓 (ℎ, 0) = 0.
Thus,

𝑓 (0,0) = 0 .
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Similarly,

𝑓 (0,0) = 0 .

Now find mixed derivatives.

For 𝑦 ≠ 0,
𝑓(ℎ, 𝑦) − 𝑓(0, 𝑦)
𝑓 (0, 𝑦) = lim .
→ ℎ
Since 𝑓(0, 𝑦) = 0,
ℎ −𝑦
𝑓 (0, 𝑦) = lim 𝑦 = −𝑦.
→ ℎ +𝑦
Therefore,
𝑓 (0, 𝑦) − 𝑓 (0,0) −𝑦
𝑓 (0,0) = lim = lim = −1.
→ 𝑦 → 𝑦
Hence,

𝑓 (0,0) = −1 .

Similarly,
𝑓(𝑥, 𝑘) − 𝑓(𝑥, 0)
𝑓 (𝑥, 0) = lim .
→ 𝑘
Since 𝑓(𝑥, 0) = 0,

𝑥 −𝑘
𝑓 (𝑥, 0) = lim 𝑥 = 𝑥.
→ 𝑥 +𝑘
Thus,
𝑓 (𝑥, 0) − 𝑓 (0,0)
𝑓 (0,0) = lim = 1.
→ 𝑥
Therefore,

𝑓 (0,0) = 1 .

Hence the second order derivatives at (0,0) are

𝑓 (0,0) = 0, 𝑓 (0,0) = 0, 𝑓 (0,0) = −1, 𝑓 (0,0) = 1.

8. (a) We are to find extrema of

𝑓(𝑥, 𝑦, 𝑧) = 𝑥𝑦 + 2𝑧
on the curve given by
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𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑧 = 0, 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑧 = 24

From the plane,

𝑧 = −(𝑥 + 𝑦)
Substitute into 𝑓:
𝑓 = 𝑥𝑦 + 2(−𝑥 − 𝑦) = 𝑥𝑦 − 2𝑥 − 2𝑦
Also substitute into sphere:

𝑥 + 𝑦 + (𝑥 + 𝑦) = 24

𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑥𝑦 = 12
Apply Lagrange multipliers:
Let
𝜙(𝑥, 𝑦) = 𝑥𝑦 − 2𝑥 − 2𝑦
with constraint

𝑔(𝑥, 𝑦) = 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑥𝑦 − 12 = 0
Then
∇𝜙 = 𝜆∇𝑔
Compute:
∂𝜙 ∂𝜙
= 𝑦 − 2, =𝑥−2
∂𝑥 ∂𝑦
∂𝑔 ∂𝑔
= 2𝑥 + 𝑦, = 2𝑦 + 𝑥
∂𝑥 ∂𝑦
Thus
𝑦 − 2 = 𝜆(2𝑥 + 𝑦) (1)
𝑥 − 2 = 𝜆(2𝑦 + 𝑥) (2)
Subtract (1) and (2):
(𝑦 − 𝑥) = 𝜆[(2𝑥 + 𝑦) − (2𝑦 + 𝑥)]
𝑦 − 𝑥 = 𝜆(𝑥 − 𝑦)
(𝑦 − 𝑥)(1 + 𝜆) = 0
Case 1: 𝒚 = 𝒙
Substitute into constraint:
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𝑥 + 𝑥 + 𝑥 = 12

3𝑥 = 12 ⇒ 𝑥 = ±2
Thus points:

 (2,2, −4)

 (−2, −2,4)
Evaluate 𝑓:
𝑓(2,2, −4) = 4 − 8 = −4
𝑓(−2, −2,4) = 4 + 8 = 12

Case 2: 𝝀 = −𝟏
From (1):
𝑦 − 2 = −(2𝑥 + 𝑦)
𝑥+𝑦 =1
Thus
𝑧 = −1
Substitute into constraint:

𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑥𝑦 = 12
Using 𝑦 = 1 − 𝑥:

𝑥 + (1 − 𝑥) + 𝑥(1 − 𝑥) = 12

1 ± √45 1 ± 3√5
𝑥= =
2 2
Then

1 ∓ 3√5
𝑦 =1−𝑥 =
2
Evaluate 𝑓:
𝑓 = 𝑥𝑦 − 2(𝑥 + 𝑦) = 𝑥𝑦 − 2
Now
𝑥𝑦 = −11
Thus
𝑓 = −11 − 2 = −13
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
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Final values
Collected values:
𝑓 = 12, −4, −13
Final Answer

Maximum value = 12 at (−2, −2,4)

1 + 3√5 1 − 3√5
Minimum value = −13 at , , −1 and symmetric point
2 2

8. (b) Evaluate
𝑦
𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑦,
𝑥 +𝑦 +1

where

𝑦
0≤𝑥≤ , 0 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 2.
2
Changing the order of integration, the region becomes

0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 2, √2𝑥 ≤ 𝑦 ≤ 2.
Therefore,

𝑦
𝐼= 𝑑𝑦 𝑑𝑥.
√ 𝑥 +𝑦 +1

Thus,

𝐼= 𝑥 +𝑦 +1 𝑑𝑥.
√

So,

𝐼= 𝑥 + 5 − 𝑥 + 2𝑥 + 1 𝑑𝑥.

for 0 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 2,

𝐼= 𝑥 + 5 𝑑𝑥 − ( 𝑥 + 1) 𝑑𝑥.

Now,
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( 𝑥 + 1) 𝑑𝑥 = 4.

Also,
𝑥 5
∫ 𝑥 + 5 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 + 5 + log 𝑥 + 𝑥 + 5 .
2 2
Therefore,

5 5 5
𝑥 + 5 𝑑𝑥 = 3 + log = 3 + log5.
2 √5 4

Hence,
5
𝐼 = log5 − 1.
4

8. (c) Given curve:

(2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1) (𝑥 + 𝑦) − 8𝑥 + 2𝑦 − 9 = 0.
Put
𝑝 = 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1, 𝑞 = 𝑥 + 𝑦.
Then
𝑝 − 1 + 3𝑞 2𝑞 − 𝑝 + 1
𝑥= , 𝑦= .
5 5
Substituting in the curve,

𝑝 𝑞 − 2𝑝 − 4𝑞 − 7 = 0.
That is,

𝑞(𝑝 − 4) = 2𝑝 + 7.
For large values of 𝑝,
𝑞 → 0.
Thus, one asymptote is
𝑞 = 0,
i.e.

𝑥+𝑦 =0.

For large values of 𝑞, we must have

𝑝 − 4 = 0.
 CSE MAINS 2026: Test 1 Solution
By Avinash Singh, Ex IES, [Link] IITR
Hence,
𝑝 = ±2.
Therefore, the other two asymptotes are
𝑝=2 and 𝑝 = −2.
That is,
2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = 2
and
2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 1 = −2.
Hence,

2𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 1 = 0

and

2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 3 = 0 .

Thus, the three asymptotes are

𝑥 + 𝑦 = 0, 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 − 1 = 0, 2𝑥 − 3𝑦 + 3 = 0.

Now, checking their intersections with the curve:

A fundamental theorem for algebraic curves states that if an 𝑛-th degree curve has 𝑛 asymptotes, their combined equation
𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) = 0 and the curve's equation 𝐶 (𝑥, 𝑦) = 0 differ only by a lower-degree expression. The intersection points of
the asymptotes with the curve lie on the curve defined by that remaining lower-degree expression.
We can substitute the joint asymptote expression directly into the curve's equation by rewriting the first term as (2𝑥 −
3𝑦 + 1) (𝑥 + 𝑦) = 𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) + 4(𝑥 + 𝑦):
[𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) + 4(𝑥 + 𝑦)] − 8𝑥 + 2𝑦 − 9 = 0

𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) + 4𝑥 + 4𝑦 − 8𝑥 + 2𝑦 − 9 = 0
𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) − 4𝑥 + 6𝑦 − 9 = 0
At any point where the asymptotes intersect the curve, the joint asymptote equation must equal zero (𝐴 (𝑥, 𝑦) = 0).
Substituting this condition into the relationship above yields:
−4𝑥 + 6𝑦 − 9 = 0 ⟹ 4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 9 = 0
Since any intersection point between the asymptotes and the curve must satisfy this leftover linear equation, all such
intersection points are forced to lie on the straight line:
4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 9 = 0
An 𝑛-th degree curve can intersect its 𝑛 asymptotes at most in 𝑛(𝑛 − 2) points. For a cubic curve (𝑛 = 3), it intersects
them in exactly 3(3 − 2) = 3 points. We have proven that these three intersection points lie perfectly on the straight line
4𝑥 − 6𝑦 + 9 = 0.