N.C.E.R.

Solution
RELATION
AND
FUNCTION
 INVERSE
TRIGONOMETRIC
FUNCTION
MATRICES
DETERMINANT
 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Exercise 1.1
1. Determine whether each of the following relations are
reflexive, symmetric and transitive:
(i) Relation R in the set A = {1, 2, 3, ..., 13, 14} defined as
R = {(x, y) : 3x – y = 0}
(ii) Relation R in the set N of natural numbers defined as
R = {(x, y) : y = x + 5 and x < 4}
(iii) Relation R in the set A = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} as
R = {(x, y) : y is divisible by x}
(iv) Relation R in the set Z of all integers defined as
R = {(x, y) : x – y is an integer} (Important)
(v) Relation R in the set A of human beings in a town at a
particular time given by
(a) R = {(x, y) : x and y work at the same place}
(b) R = {(x, y) : x and y live in the same locality}
(c) R = {(x, y) : x is exactly 7 cm taller than y}
(d) R = {(x, y) : x is wife of y}
(e) R = {(x, y) : x is father of y}
Sol. (i) Given: Set A = {1, 2, 3, ..., 13, 14}
Relation R in the set A is defined as
R = {(x, y) : 3x – y = 0}
i.e., R = {(x, y) : – y = – 3x i.e., y = 3x} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ A. Putting y = x in (i), x = 3x
Dividing by x ≠ 0 (x ∈ A here is ≠ 0), 1 = 3 which is
impossible. Therefore (x, x) ∉ R and hence R is not reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let (x, y) ∈ R, therefore by (i) y = 3x
Interchanging x and y in (i), x = 3y which is not true
y
(... y = 3x ⇒ x = and ≠ 3y)
3
For example, 2 ∈ A, 6 ∈ A and 6 = 3(2) (i.e., y = 3x)
but 2 ≠ 3(6) = 18.
∴ (2, 6) ∈ R but (6, 2) ∉ R ∴ R is not symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
Therefore by (i), y = 3x and z = 3y.
To eliminate y, Putting y = 3x in z = 3y, z = 3(3x) = 9x
∴ By (i), (x, z) ∉ R.
∴ R is not transitive.
(ii) Given: Relation R in the set of natural numbers
defined as

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

R = {(x, y) : y = x + 5 and x < 4}

i.e., R = {(x, x + 5) and x = 1, 2, 3}
∴ In Roster form; R = {(1, 1 + 5), (2, 2 + 5), (3, 3 + 5)}
i.e., R = {(1, 6), (2, 7), (3, 8)}
Domain of R is the set of x co-ordinates of R. i.e., the set {1, 2, 3}.
R is not reflexive because (1, 1) ∉ R, (2, 2) ∉ R, (3, 3) ∉ R
R is not symmetric because (1, 6) ∈ R but (6, 1) ∉ R.
R is transitive because there are no two pairs of the type (x, y)
and (y, z) ∈ R = {(1, 6), (2, 7), (3, 8)};
so we should have no reason to expect (x, z) ∈ R.
Remark 1. Please note carefully and learn that relation R in the
above question is transitive.
Remark 2. Whenever set A is a small finite set, it is always
better to write R in roster form.
(iii) Relation R in the set A = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}
defined as R = {(x, y) : y is divisible by x}.
∴ In roster form; R = {(1, 1), (1, 2), (1, 3), (1, 4), (1, 5), (1, 6),
(2, 2), (2, 4), (2, 6), (3, 3), (3, 6), (4, 4), (5, 5), (6, 6)}
R is reflexive because (1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (4, 4), (5, 5), (6, 6) all
∈ R, i.e., (x, x) ∈ R for all x ∈ A.
R is not symmetric because (2, 4) ∈ R but (4, 2) ∉ R as 2 is not
divisible by 4.
Is R transitive? Let x, y, z ∈ A
such that (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
∴ By definition of R in this question, y is divisible by x and z is
divisible by y.
∴ There exist natural numbers m and n such that
y = mx and z = ny.
To eliminate y: Putting y = mx in z = ny, we have
z = n(mx) = (nm)x
∴ z is a multiple of, x, i.e., z is divisible by x.
∴ (x, z) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
(iv) Given: Relation R in the set Z of all integers defined as
R = {(x, y) : (x – y) is an integer} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ Z. Putting y = x in (i),
x – x = 0 is an integer which is true.
∴ (x, x) ∈ R for all x ∈ Z ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ Z, y ∈ Z, and (x, y) ∈ R.
∴ By (i) (x – y) is an integer.
i.e., – (y – x) is an integer and hence y – x is an integer.
∴ (y, x) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let x ∈ Z, y ∈ Z and z ∈ Z
such that (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
⇒ By (i), x – y is an integer and y – z is also an integer.
Adding to eliminate y, x – y + y – z = Integer + Integer
i.e., x – z is an integer.
⇒ (x, z) ∈ R by (i). ∴ R is transitive.

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Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(v) R is a relation in the set A of human beings of a town.

(a) Given: R = {(x, y) : x and y work at the same place} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ A.
Putting y = x in (i), x and x work at the same place which
is true (... x and x is just one person x)
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A and (x, y) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x and y work at the same place.
i.e., same thing as y and x work at the same place. Therefore
by (i), (y, x) ∈ R.
Is R transitive? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A, z ∈ A such that
(x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x and y work at the same place.
Also By (i), y and z work at the same place.
Therefore, we can say that x and z also work at the same
place.
∴ By (i), (x, z) ∈ R. Therefore, R is transitive.
(b) Same solution as of part (a)
(Replace the word “work” by “live” and “place” by “locality”
in the solution of part (a)).
(c) R = {(x, y) : x is exactly 7 cm taller than y) ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ A. Putting y = x in (i), we have x is
exactly 7 cm taller than x, which is false.
(... No body can be taller than oneself.)
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A and (x, y) ∈ R.
Therefore, by (i), x is exactly 7 cm taller than y.
∴ y is exactly 7 cm shorter than x.
∴ By (i), (y, x) ∉ R. ∴ R is not
symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A, z ∈ A such that (x, y) ∈
R and (y, z) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x is exactly 7 cm taller than y and y is exactly 7
cm taller than z.
∴ x is exactly (7 + 7) = 14 cm (and not 7 cm) taller than z.
∴ By (i), (x, z) ∉ R. ∴ R is not transitive.
(d) Given: R = {(x, y) : x is wife of y} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ A. Putting y = x in (i), we have x is
wife of x which is false.
(... No lady can be wife of herself.)
∴ R is not reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A and (x, y) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x is wife of y.
Hence y is husband (and not wife) of x.
∴ (y, x) ∉ R. ∴ R is not symmetric.
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Is R transitive?
There can’t be any three x, y, z ∈ A
(Set of Human beings) such that both (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
(... (x, y) ∈ R ⇒ x is wife of y (⇒ Husband i.e., Man) and
hence (y, z) will never belong to R as no man y can be wife of any
human being z).
Hence we no reason to expect that (x, z) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
(e) Given: R = {(x, y) : x is father of y} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let x ∈ A. Putting y = x in (i), we have x is
father of x which is false.
(... No body can be father of oneself)
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A such that (x, y) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x is father of y.
Hence y is son or daughter (and not father) of x.
∴ (y, x) ∉ R. ∴ R is not symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let x, y, z ∈ A such that (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), x is father of y and y is father of z.
Hence x is grandfather (and not father) of z.
∴ (x, z) ∉ R. ∴ R is not transitive.
2. Show that the relation R in the set R of real numbers,
defined as R = {(a, b) : a ≤ b 2 } is neither reflexive nor
symmetric nor transitive.
Sol. Relation R = {(a, b) : a, b are real and a ≤ b2} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let a be any real number.
Putting b = a in (i), a ≤ a2 which is not true for any positive real
number less than 1.
2
1 1 1 1
For example, for a = , ≤   = (i.e., a ≤ a2) is not true
2 2  2 4
1 1
as > . ∴ R is not reflexive.
2 4
Is R symmetric?
Let us take a = 1 and b = 2. Now a = 1 ≤ 22 = 4 (= b2) is true.
∴ By (i), (a, b) ∈ R.1414
But b = 2 > 1 2 = 1 (a 2 ) i.e., b is not less than equal to a 2 ,
therefore (b, a) ∉ R. ∴ R is not symmetric.
Is R transitive?
Let us take a = 10, b = 4, and c = 2 (All three are real numbers)
Now by (i), (a, b) = (10, 4) ∈ R (... a = 10 ≤ b2 (= 42) is true)
Again by (i), (b, c) = (4, 2) ∈ R (... b = 4 ≤ c2 (= 22) is true)
(4 ≤ 22 ⇒ 4 ≤ 4 ⇒ Either 4 < 4 or 4 = 4 But 4 = 4 is true).
But (a, c) = (10, 2) ∉ R [... a = 10 > 22 (= b2)]
∴ R is not transitive.
∴ R is neither reflexive, nor symmetric nor transitive.
Remark. It may be noted that 4 ≤ 4 is true. Also 4 ≥ 4 is
true. 8 ≥ 5 is true and 3 ≤ 6 is true.
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

3. Check whether the relation R defined in the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5,

6} as R = {(a, b) : b = a + 1} is reflexive, symmetric or
transitive.
Sol. Given: Set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6} = set A (say)
Relation R = {(a, b) : b = a + 1} = {(a, a + 1) : a ∈ A} ...(i)
Putting a = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (given) in (i).
Roster form of relation R is {(1, 2), (2, 3), (3, 4), (4, 5), (5, 6),
(6, 7)} ...(ii)
R is not reflexive. [... By (ii), (1, 1) ∉ R, (2, 2) ∉ R]
(... We know that for relation R to be reflexive, (a, a) ∈ R for
all a ∈ A)
R is not symmetric because by (ii), (1, 2) ∈ R but (2, 1) ∉ R.
R is not transitive because (x, y) = (1, 2) ∈ R, (y, z) = (2, 3) ∈ R
but (x, z) = (1, 3) ∉ R.
4. Show that the relation R in R defined as R = {(a, b) : a ≤ b},
is reflexive and transitive but not symmetric.
Sol. Given: Relation R in the set of real numbers is defined as
R = {(a, b) : a ≤ b} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Putting b = a in (i), we have a ≤ a which is true.
[... a ≤ a ⇒ Either a < a or a = a and out of the two a = a is true)
R is not symmetric because by (i), (1, 2) ∈ R as a = 1 ≤ b (= 2)
but (2, 1) ∉ R because b (= 2) > 1(= a) (i.e., b ≤ a is not true).
Is R transitive? Let a, b, c be three real numbers such that
(a, b) ∈ R and (b, c) ∈ R. ∴ By (i), a ≤ b and b ≤ c.
Therefore a ≤ c and hence by (i), (a, c) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
5. Check whether the relation R in R defined by
R = {(a, b) : a ≤ b3} is reflexive, symmetric or transitive.
Sol. Relation R = {(a, b) : a, b are real and a ≤ b3} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let a be any real number.
Putting b = a in (i), a ≤ a3 which is not true for any positive real
number less than 1.
3
1 1 1 1
For example, for a = , ≤   = (i.e., a ≤ a3) is not true
2 2  2 8
1 1
as > . ∴ R is not reflexive.
2 8
Is R symmetric?
Let us take a = 1 and b = 2. Now a = 1 ≤ 23 = 8 (= b3) is true.
Therefore by (i), (a, b) ≤ R.
Now, b = 2 > 13 (= 1) (a3) i.e., b is not less than or equal to a3.
Therefore, (b, a) ∉ R. ∴ R is not symmetric.
Is R transitive?
Let us take a = 10, b = 4, c = 2 (All three are real numbers)
Now by (i), (a, b) = (10, 4) ∈ R (... a = 10 ≤ b3 (= 43 = 64 is true)
Again by (i), (b, c) = (4, 2) ∈ R (... b = 4 ≤ c3 (= 23 = 8) is true.
But (a, c) = (10, 2) ∉ R (... a = 10 > 23 (= c3 = 8)).
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

∴ R is not transitive.
∴ R is neither reflexive nor symmetric nor transitive.
6. Show that the relation R in the set {1, 2, 3} given by
R = {(1, 2), (2, 1)} is symmetric but neither reflexive nor
transitive.
Sol. Given: Set is {1, 2, 3} = A (say)
Given relation R = {(1, 2), (2, 1)} ...(i)
R is symmetric because (x, y) = (1, 2) ∈ R and also (y, x)
= (2, 1) ∈ R and these two are the only elements of R.
i.e., (x, y) ∈ R ⇒ (y, x) ∈ R for all (x, y) ∈ R.
R is not reflexive because 1 ∈ A but (1, 1) ∉ R.
2 ∈ A but (2, 2) ∉ R, 3 ∈ A but (3, 3) ∉ R.
R is not transitive because (x, y) = (1, 2) ∈ R and (y,
z) = (2, 1) ∈ R but (x, z) = (1, 1) ∉ R.
7. Show that the relation R in the set A of all the books in a
library of a college given by R = {(x, y) : x and y have same
number of pages} is an equivalence relation.
Sol. Given: Set A of all the books in a library of a college.
Given: Relation R : {(x, y) : x and y have same number of pages}
...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let (book) x ∈ A
Putting y = x in (i), we have (book) x and x have same number of
pages which is clearly true, because we are talking of pages of one
book only.
∴ (x, x) ∈ R for all x ∈ A. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let x ∈ A, y ∈ A and (x, y) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), books x and y have the same number of pages i.e., books
y and x have the same number of pages. Therefore (y, x) ∈ R.
∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let x, y, z ∈ A such that (x, y) ∈ R and (y, z)
∈ R.
By (i), (x, y) ∈ R ⇒ Books x and y have the same number of
pages. ...(ii)
By (i), (y, z) ∈ R ⇒ Books y and z have the same number of
pages. ...(iii)
From (ii) and (iii) books x and z have the same number of pages.
Therefore by (i), (x, z) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
So have proved that the relation R given by (i) is reflexive,
symmetric and transitive and hence is an equivalence relation.
8. Show that the relation R in the set A = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} given by
R = {(a, b) : | a – b | is even}, is an equivalence relation.
Show that all the elements of {1, 3, 5} are related to each
other and all the elements of {2, 4} are related to each
other. But no element of {1, 3, 5} is related to any element
of {2, 4}.
Sol. (i) For all a ∈ A, | a – a | = 0 is even so that (a, a) ∈ R.
Therefore, R is reflexive.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(ii) Further (a, b) ∈ R ⇒ | a – b | is even

⇒ | b – a | is even, since | b – a | = | – (a – b) |
= | a – b | (... | – t | = | t |)
⇒ (b, a) ∈ R ∴ R is symmetric.
(iii) Also (a, b) ∈ R and (b, c) ∈ R
⇒ | a – b | is even and | b – c | is even
⇒ a – b is even and b – c is even
Adding the two ⇒ a – c = even
[... addition of even numbers is even]
⇒ | a – c | is even ⇒ (a, c) ∈ R
∴ R is transitive.
Hence, R is an equivalence relation.
Further all the elements of {1, 3, 5} are related to each other
since all the elements of this subset of A are odd and
difference of two odd numbers is even.
[... | 1 – 1 | = 0, | 3 – 3 | = 0, | 5 – 5 | = 0 are also even].
Similarly, all the elements of {2, 4} are related to each other
since all the elements of this subset of A are even and
difference of two even numbers is even.
Also, no element of {1, 3, 5} is related to any element of {2, 4}
since the difference of an odd number and an even number
is never even.
[... | 1 – 2 | = 1, | 1 – 4 | = 3, | 3 – 2 | = 1, | 3 – 4 | = 1,
| 5 – 2 | = 3, | 5 – 4 | = 1 are odd and not even.]
9. Show that each of the relation R in the set
A = {x ∈ Z, 0 ≤ x ≤ 12} given by
(i) R = {(a, b) : | a – b | is a multiple of 4}
(ii) R = {(a, b) : a = b}
is an equivalence relation. Find the set of all elements related
to 1 in each case.
Sol. (i) Given: Set A = {x ∈ Z, 0 ≤ x ≤ 12}
and R = {(a, b) : | a – b | is a multiple of 4} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let a ∈ A.
Putting b = a (i), | a – a | = | 0 | = 0 is a multiple of 4.
which is true.
∴ (a, a) ∈ R for all a ∈ A. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let a ∈ A, b ∈ A and (a, b) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), | a – b | is a multiple of 4.
i.e., | – (b – a) | = | b – a |
(... | – t | = | t | for every real t) is a multiple of 4.
∴ By (i), (b, a) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R Transitive? Let a, b, c ∈ A such that (a, b) ∈ R and
(b, c) ∈ R.
By (i), (a, b) ∈ R ⇒ | a – b | is a multiple of 4.
∴ There exists an integer m such that | a – b | = 4m

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

∴ a – b = ± 4m ...(ii)
Similarly, there exists an integer n such that b – c = ± 4n
...(iii)
Adding (ii) and (iii) (to eliminate b)
a – c = ± 4m ± 4n = ± 4(m + n)
∴ | a – c | = 4(m + n)
i.e., | a – c | is a multiple of 4.
∴ By (i), (a, c) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
Hence R is an equivalence relation.
To find the set of elements related to 1 (∈ ∈ A).
Let a ∈ A be related to 1 ∈ A.
∴ (a, 1) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), | a – 1 | is a multiple of 4.
Testing a = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 ∈ A, only a
= 1, 5, 9 satisfy the above relation, i.e., | 1 – 1 | = 0, | 5 – 1 |
= 4, | 9 – 1 | = 8 are multiples of 4.
∴ The set of elements of A related to 1 ∈ A is {1, 5, 9}.
(ii) R = {(a, b) : a = b} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Putting b = a in (i), we have a = a which is
true.
∴ (a, a) ∈ R for all a ∈ A. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let a ∈ A, b ∈ A and (a, b) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), a = b. Hence b = a.
∴ By (i), (b, a) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let a, b, c ∈ A such that
(a, b) ∈ R and (b, c) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), a = b and b = c.
Hence a = c. Therefore by (i), (a, c) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
Hence R is an equivalence relation.
To find set of elements of A related to 1 ∈ A.
Let a ∈ A be related to 1 ∈ A.
∴ (a, 1) ∈ R. ∴ By (i), a = 1.
∴ The set of elements of A related to 1 ∈ A is {1}.
10. Give an example of a relation, which is
(i) Symmetric but neither reflexive nor transitive.
(ii) Transitive but neither reflexive nor symmetric.
(iii) Reflexive and symmetric but not transitive.
(iv) Reflexive and transitive but not symmetric.
(v) Symmetric and transitive but not reflexive.
Sol. Let A = {1, 2, 3, 4}, then
A × A = {(1, 1), (1, 2), (1, 3), (1, 4), (2, 1), (2, 2), (2, 3), (2, 4),
(3, 1), (3, 2), (3, 3), (3, 4), (4, 1), (4, 2), (4, 3), (4, 4)}
We know that a relation in A is a subset of A × A.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(i) The relation R = {(1, 2), (2, 1), (2, 4), (4, 2)} is symmetric
but neither reflexive nor transitive, because
R–1 = {(2, 1), (1, 2), (4, 2), (2, 4)} = R
⇒ R is symmetric
1 ∈ A but (1, 1) ∉ R ⇒ R is not reflexive
(1, 2) ∈ R and (2, 4) ∈ R but (1, 4) ∉ R
⇒ R is not transitive.
(ii) The relation R = {(1, 2), (2, 3), (1, 3)} is transitive but
neither reflexive nor symmetric, because
(1, 2) ∈ R, (2, 3) ∈ R and (1, 3) ∈ R
⇒ R is transitive
1 ∈ A but (1, 1) ∉ R ⇒ R is not reflexive
(1, 2) ∈ R but (2, 1) ∉ R ⇒ R is not symmetric.
(iii) The relation R = {(1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (4, 4), (1, 2), (2, 1),
(1, 3), (3, 1)} is reflexive and symmetric but not transitive,
because
(a, a) ∈ R for all a ∈ A ⇒ R is reflexive
(a, b) ∈ R ⇒ (b, a) ∈ R ⇒ R is symmetric
(2, 1) ∈ R and (1, 3) ∈ R but (2, 3) ∉ R
⇒ R is not transitive.
(iv) The relation R = {(1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (4, 4), (1, 2), (2, 3),
(1, 3)} is reflexive and transitive but not symmetric, because
(a, a) ∈ R for all a ∈ A ⇒ R is reflexive
If (a, b) ∈ R and (b, c) ∈ R then (a, c) ∈ R
⇒ R is transitive
(1, 2) ∈ R but (2, 1) ∉ R ⇒ R is not symmetric
–1 –1
[Or R ≠ R because R = {(1, 1), (2, 2),
(3, 3), (4, 4), (2, 1), (3, 2), (3, 1)} ≠ R.
⇒ R is not symmetric].
(v) The relation R = {(1, 1), (1, 2), (2, 1), (2, 2)} is symmetric
and transitive but not reflexive, because
If (a, b) ∈ R then (b, a) ∈ R ⇒ R is symmetric
–1
[Or R = R ⇒ R is symmetric]
If (a, b) ∈ R and (b, c) ∈ R then (a, c) ∈ R
⇒ R is transitive
3 ∈ A but (3, 3) ∉ R ⇒ R is not reflexive.
11. Show that the relation R in the set A of points in a plane
given by R = {(P, Q) : distance of the point P from the origin
is same as the distance of the point Q from the origin}, is
an equivalence relation. Further, show that the set of all
points related to a point P ≠ (0, 0) is the circle passing
through P with origin as centre.
Sol. Given: Set A of points in a plane and relation R = {(P, Q) :
distance of point P from origin is same as the distance of the
point Q from the origin}.
i.e., R = {(P, Q) : OP = OQ where O is the origin} ...(i)
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Is R reflexive? Let point P ∈ A.

Putting Q = P in (i), we have OP = OP which is true.
∴ (P, P) ∈ R for all points P ∈ A. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let points P, Q ∈ A such that (P, Q) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), OP = OQ i.e., OQ = OP
∴ By (i), (Q, P) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let points P, Q, S ∈ A such that
(P, Q) ∈ R and (Q, S) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), OP = OQ and OQ = OS. ∴ OP = OS (= OQ)
∴ By (i), (P, S) ∈ R ∴ R is transitive.
Hence R is an equivalence relation.
Now given point P ≠ (0, 0).
Let Q be any point of set A related to point P.
∴ By (i), OQ = OP for all points Q ∈ A, related to point P.
i.e., OQ = constant distance OP = k (say)
∴ By definition of circle, all points Q of set A related to a given
point P of A lie on a circle with centre at the origin O.
12. Show that the relation R defined in the set A of all triangles
as R = {(T1, T2) : T1 is similar to T2}, is equivalence relation.
Consider three right angle triangles T1 with sides 3, 4, 5, T2
with sides 5, 12, 13 and T 3 with sides 6, 8, 10. Which
triangles among T1, T2 and T3 are related?
Sol. Given: Relation R defined in the set (say A) of all triangles as
R = {(T1, T2) : T1 is similar to T2} ...(i)
We know that two triangles are said to be similar if the ratio of
their corresponding sides is same. ...(ii)
Is R reflexive? Let T1 ∈ A.
Putting T2 = T1 in (i), we have triangle T1 is similar to triangle
T1 which is always true.
Therefore (T1, T1) ∈ R for all T1 ∈ A. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let T1 ∈ A, T2 ∈ A such that (T1, T2) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), triangle T1 is similar to triangle T2.
∴ We can say that triangle T2 is similar to triangle T1.
∴ By (i), (T2, T1) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let T1 ∈ A, T2 ∈ A, T3 ∈ A such that (T1, T2)
∈ R and (T2, T3) ∈ R.
By (i), (T1, T2) ∈ R ⇒ T1 is similar to T2
and (T2, T3) ∈ R ⇒ T2 is similar to T3.
∴ By definition of similar triangles given above (in (ii)),
Triangle T1 is similar to triangle T3.
∴ By (i), (T1, T3) ∈ R.
∴ R is transitive.
Hence R is an equivalence relation.
Now given that triangle T1 has sides 3, 4, 5. ...(iii)
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Triangle T2 has sides 5, 12, 13. ...(iv)

Triangle T3 has sides 6, 8, 10. ...(v)
Triangle T1 in (iii) is not similar to triangle T2 in (iv)
4 5
(...Ratio of their corresponding sides is not same i.e., 3 , ,
5 12 13
are not equal.)
∴ By (i), T1 is not related to T2.
Triangle T 2 in (iv) is not similar to triangle T 3 in (v) because
5 12 13
ratio of their corresponding sides is not same i.e., , and
6 8 10
are not equal.
∴ By (i), T2 is not related to T3.
But triangle T1 in (iii) is similar to triangle T3 in (v).
[... Ratio of their corresponding sides is same

3 4 5  1 
i.e., = = =
6 8 10  2  
∴ By (i), triangle T1 is related to triangle T3.
13. Show that the relation R defined in the set A of all polygons
as R = {(P1, P2) : P1 and P2 have same number of sides}, is
an equivalence relation. What is the set of all elements in A
related to the right angle triangle T with sides 3, 4 and 5?
Sol. Given: Relation R defined in the set A of all polygons as
R = {(P1, P2) : P1 and P2 have same number of sides} ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let polygon P1 ∈ A.
Putting P2 = P1 in (i), we have P1 and P1 have same number of
sides which is of course true.
(... P1 and P1 is same polygon) ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let P1 ∈ A and P2 ∈ A such that (P1, P2) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), polygons P1 and P2 have the same number of sides, i.e.,
polygons P2 and P1 have the same number of sides.
∴ By (i), (P2, P1) ∈ R. ∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let P1, P2, P3 ∈ A such that (P1, P2) ∈ R and
(P2, P3) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), polygons P1 and P2 have same number of sides.
Also polygons P2 and P3 have same number of sides.
∴ Polygons P1 and P3 (also) have same number of sides.
∴ By (i), (P1, P3) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
∴ R is an equivalence relation.
Now given a right angled triangle T with sides 3, 4, 5.
∴ T also ∈ A (... A triangle is a polygon with three sides)
∴ By (i), the set of all triangles (polygons) of set A (and not

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only right angled triangles ∈ A) is the set of all elements related

to this given right angled triangle T.
14. Let L be the set of all lines in XY plane and R be the
relation in L defined as R = {(L1, L2) : L1 is parallel to L2}.
Show that R is an equivalence relation. Find the set of all
lines related to the line y = 2x + 4.
Sol. Given: L = set of all the lines in XY plane.
Relation R = {(L1, L2) : L1 is parallel to L2} ...(i)
Is R reflexive?
Let L1 ∈ A. Putting L2 = L1 in (i), we have L1 is parallel to L1
which is true.
∴ (L1 L1) ∈ R. ∴ R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? L1
L2
Let L1 ∈ A, L2 ∈ A such that (L1, L2) ∈ R. L3
∴ By (i), line L1 is parallel to line L2.
∴ Line L2 is parallel to line L1.
∴ By (i), (L2, L1) ∈ R.
∴ R is symmetric.
Is R transitive?
Let L 1 ∈ A, L 2 ∈ A, L 3 ∈ A such that (L 1 , L 2 ) ∈ R
and (L2, L3) ∈ R.
∴ By (i), line L1 is parallel to L2 and L2 is parallel to L3.
Hence L1 is parallel to L3.
∴ By (i), (L1, L3) ∈ R. ∴ R is transitive.
Hence R is an equivalence relation.
Now to find set of all lines related to the line y = 2x + 4.
We know that equations of parallel lines differ only in constant term.
∴ By (i), (Equation), i.e., set of all lines parallel to the line
y = 2x + 4 is y = 2x + c where c is an arbitrary constant.
15. Let R be the relation in the set {1, 2, 3, 4} given by
R = {(1, 2), (2, 2), (1, 1), (4, 4), (1, 3), (3, 3), (3, 2)}. Choose
the correct answer.
(A) R is reflexive and symmetric but not transitive.
(B) R is reflexive and transitive but not symmetric.
(C) R is symmetric and transitive but not reflexive.
(D) R is an equivalence relation.
Sol. Given: Set is {1, 2, 3, 4} = A (say)
Relation R in A is {(1, 2), (2, 2), (1, 1), (4, 4), (1, 3), (3, 3), (3, 2)}
...(i)
R is reflexive because (1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (4, 4) all belong to R
i.e., (a, a) ∈ R for all a ∈ A.
Now (1, 2) ∈ R but (2, 1) ∉ R. ∴ R is not symmetric.

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Is R transitive?
Yes, because in relation (i) whenever (x, y) and (y, z) ∈ R; then
(x, z) also ∈ R.
As for (1, 2) and (2, 2) ∈ R; (1, 2) ∈ R
For (1, 3) and (3, 2) ∈ R; (1, 3) ∈ R
∴ R is transitive. Therefore, option (B) is the correct option.
16. Let R be the relation in the set N given by R = {(a, b) :
a = b – 2, b > 6}. Choose the correct answer.
(A) (2, 4) ∈ R (B) (3, 8) ∈ R (C) (6, 8) ∈ R (D) (8, 7) ∈ R.
Sol. Relation R in N defined by R = {(a, b), a = b – 2, b > 6} ...(i)
Out of the given options only option (C) satisfies (i) i.e., (6, 8) ∈ R.
... a = 6, b = 8 > 6 and 8 – 2 = 6 i.e., a = b – 2.

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Exercise 1.2
1
1. Show that the function f : R* → R*, defined by f (x) = is
x
one-one and onto, where R* is the set of all non-zero real
numbers. Is the result true, if the domain R* is replaced by
N with co-domain being same as R*?
1
Sol. f (x) = (given)
x

1 1 ∵ f ( x) = 1 
∴ For x1, x2 ∈ R* with f (x1) = f (x2) we have  x 
=
x1 x2 
⇒ x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
1 1
Again f (x) = y = ⇒ xy = 1 ⇒ x = .
x y
1
∴ Given any y ∈ R*, the co-domain, we can choose x = such
y
that
1 1
f (x) = = = y. Thus, every element in the co-domain has
x 1
 
 y
pre-image in the domain under f. Therefore, f is onto.
1
The function f : N → R* again defined by f (x) = is also one-one,
x
1 1
since x1, x2 ∈ N with f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ = ⇒ x1 = x2.
x1 x2
But f is not onto since 2 ∈ R* and 2 is not the reciprocal of any
natural number, i.e., there exists no natural number x such
1 1 1
that f (x) = 2 or = 2 or x = because x = ∉ N.
x 2 2

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2. Check the injectivity and surjectivity of the following

functions:
(i) f : N → N given by f (x) = x2
(ii) f : Z → Z given by f (x) = x2
(iii) f : R → R given by f (x) = x2
(iv) f : N → N given by f (x) = x3
(v) f : Z → Z given by f (x) = x3
Sol. Note. Checking injectivity ⇒ Testing for one-one function
checking surjectivity ⇒ Testing for onto function.
(i) Given: f : N → N given by f (x) = x2 ...(i)
↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f injective (one-one)? Let x 1 , x 2 ∈ Domain N such
that f (x1) = f (x2)
Putting x = x1 and x = x2 in (i), x12 = x22 ⇒ x1 = ± x2
Rejecting negative sign ( . . . x 1 , x 2 ∈ N and hence are
positive), x1 = x2
∴ f is injective i.e., one-one.
Is f surjective (onto)?
Putting x = 1, 2, 3, ..., ∈ domain N, in (i),
Range set = {f (x) = x2; x ∈ N} = {12, 22, 32, ...} = {1, 4, 9, ...}
≠ co-domain N
[... 2, 3, 5, 8, ... ∈ co-domain N but don’t belong range]
∴ f is not surjective.
∴ f is injective but not surjective.
(ii) Given: f : Z → Z given by f (x) = x2 ...(i)
↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f injective (one-one)? Let x 1 , x 2 ∈ Domain Z such
that f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ x12 = x22 (By (i))
⇒ x1 = ± x2
Now negative sign can’t be rejected because x1, x2 ∈ Z (set
of integers) can be negative also.
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ x1 = ± x2.
Hence f is not one-one.
(Also for example 2 ∈ Z, – 2 ∈ Z, 2 ≠ – 2 but by (i),
f (2) = 22 = 4 = f (– 2) = (= (– 2)2 = 4)).
Is f onto?
Putting x = 0, ± 1, ± 2, ± 3 ..., ∈ domain Z, in (i),
Range set = { f (x) = x2; x ∈ Z} = {0, 1, 4, 9, ...}
≠ co-domain Z
[... 2, – 2, etc. belong to co-domain Z but don’t belong
to range]
∴ f is not surjective. (i.e., not onto)
∴ f is neither injective nor surjective.

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(iii) Given: f : R → R given by f (x) = x2 ...(i)

↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f injective? [Replace Z by R in the solution for part (ii)
namely “Is f injective”.]
Is f surjective?
Range set = { f (x) = x2; x ∈ R} is the set of all positive
real numbers only including 0.
(... x2 ≥ 0 for all x ∈ R) and hence ≠ co-domain R.
∴ f is not surjective.
∴ f is neither injective nor surjective.
(iv) Given: f : N → N given by f (x) = x3 ...(i)
↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f injective? Let x 1 , x 2 ∈ domain N such that
f (x1) = f (x2)
∴ By (i), x13 = x23 ⇒ x1 = x2 (only). ∴ f is one-one
(injective).
Is f surjective ?
Putting x = 1, 2, 3, ... ∈ domain N, in (i),
Range set = { f (x) = x3; x ∈ N} = {13, 23, 33, 43, ...}
= {1, 8, 27, 64, ...} ≠ co-domain N
(... 2, 3, 5, 8 etc. belong to co-domain N but don’t
belong to range set)
∴ f is not surjective.
Hence f is injective but not surjective.
(v) Given: f : Z → Z given by f (x) = x3 ...(i)
↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f injective? Let x 1 , x 2 ∈ domain Z such that
f (x1) = f (x2)
∴ By (i), x13 = x23 ⇒ x1 = x2 (only).
∴ f is one-one (injective).
Is f surjective?
Putting x = 0, 1, – 1, 2, – 2, ... ∈ domain Z, in (i),
Range set = {f (x) = x3; x ∈ Z} = {0, 1, – 1, 8, – 8, ...} ≠ co-
domain Z.
( . . . 2, – 2, 3, – 3, ... belong to co-domain Z but
don’t belong to range set)
∴ f is not surjective. ∴ f is injective but not surjective.
3. Prove that the Greatest Integer Function f : R → R, given
by f (x) = [x], is neither one-one nor onto, where [x] denotes
the greatest integer less than or equal to x.
Sol. Given: Greatest integer function
f : R → R given by f (x) = [x] ...(i)

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where [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x.

Is f one-one? Let us take x1 = 2.5 and x2 = 2.8 ∈ domain R.
From (i), f (x1) = f (2.5) = [2.5] = 2 2.8
and f (x2) = f (2.8) = [2.8] = 2 0 1 2 2.5 3
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) (= 2) but x1 (= 2.5) ≠ x2 (= 2.8)
∴ f is not one-one.
Is f onto? By (i), range set = { f (x) = [x], x ∈ R} is the set Z of
all integers (... value of [x] is always an integer)
But ≠ co-domain R.
∴ f is not onto.
∴ f is neither one-one nor onto.
4. Show that the Modulus Function f : R → R, given by f (x)
= | x |, is neither one-one nor onto, where | x | is x, if x is
positive or 0 and | x | is – x, if x is negative.
Sol. Given: Modulus function f : R → R given f (x) = | x | ...(i)
Is f one-one? Let us take x1 = – 1 and x2 = 1 ∈ domain R
From (i), f (x1) = f (– 1) = | – 1 | = 1
and f (x2) = f (1) = | 1 | = 1
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) (= 1) but x1(= – 1) ≠ x2 (= 1)
∴ f is not one-one.
Is f onto?
By (i), Range set = { f (x) = | x |, x ∈ R} is the set of positive
real numbers (only) including 0. (... | x | ≥ 0 for all x ∈ R)
but ≠ co-domain R.
∴ f is not onto. ∴ f is neither one-one nor onto.
5. Show that the Signum Function f : R → R, given by
 1, if x > 0

f (x) =  0, if x = 0
 – 1, if x < 0

is neither one-one nor onto.
Sol. Is f one-one?
Let x1 = 2, x2 = 3 ∴ f (x1) = f (2) = 1 and f (x2) = f (3) = 1
[... 2 > 0, 3 > 0 and it is given that f (x) = 1 for x > 0]
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) = 1 but x1 (= 2) ≠ x2 (= 3) ∴ f is not one-one.
or Let x1 = – 2, x2 = – 3
∴ f (x1) = f (– 2) = – 1 and f (x2) = f (– 3) = – 1
[... – 2 < 0, – 3 < 0 and it is given that f (x) = – 1 for x < 0]
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) = – 1 but x1 (= – 2) ≠ x2 (= – 3)
∴ f is not one-one.
Is f onto?
According to given f (x) = 1 if x > 0, = 0 if x = 0 and = – 1 if x < 0.
∴ Range set = { f (x) : x ∈ R} = {1, 0, – 1} ≠ co-domain R.
∴ f is not onto. ∴ f is neither one-one nor onto.

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6. Let A = {1, 2, 3}, B = {4, 5, 6, 7} and let f = {(1, 4), (2, 5),
(3, 6)} be a function from A to B. Show that f is one-one.
Sol. Given: set A = {1, 2, 3}, B = {4, 5, f
6, 7} and 1 4
f = {(1, 4), (2, 5), (3, 6)} is a f
2 5
function from A to B. f
3 6
⇒ f (1) = 4, f (2) = 5, f (3) = 6. 7
⇒ Distinct elements 1, 2 and 3 A B
of domain A have distinct f-images 4, 5, 6 in co-domain B.
Therefore f is one-one.
7. In each of the following cases, state whether the function is
one-one, onto or bijective. Justify your answer.
(i) f : R → R defined by f (x) = 3 – 4x.
(ii) f : R → R defined by f (x) = 1 + x2.
Sol. (i) Given: f : R → R defined by f (x) = 3 – 4x ...(i)
↓ ↓
domain co-domain
Is f one-one? Let x1, x2 ∈ domain R such that
f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ 3 – 4x1 = 3 – 4x2
[Putting x = x1 and x = x2 in (i), f (x1) = 3 – 4x1
and f (x2) = 3 – 4x2] ⇒ – 4x1 = – 4x2
Dividing by – 4, x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
Is f onto? Let y be any element of co-domain R.
Let us suppose that y = f (x)
∴ y = 3 – 4x (By (i)) ...(ii)
Let us find x in terms of y.
3− y
From (ii), 4x = 3 – y ⇒ x =
4
3− y
Now x = ∈ domain R for each y ∈ co-domain.
4
3 − y
∴ By (i), f (x) = 3 – 4x = 3 – 4   = 3 – (3 – y)
 4 
= 3 – 3 + y = y
Hence our supposition that y = f (x) is correct.
Hence co-domain = Range
∴ f is onto. ∴ f is both one-one and onto, i.e., f is bijective.
(ii) Given: f : R → R defined by f (x) = 1 + x2 ...(i)
Is f one-one? Let x 1 , x 2 ∈ domain R such that f (x 1 )
= f (x2).
∴ From (i), 1 + x12 = 1 + x22 ⇒ x12 = x22 ⇒ x1 = ± x2
Negative sign can’t be rejected because x1, x2 ∈ R can be
negative.
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ x1 = ± x2 and not x1 = x2.
Hence f is not one-one.
[For example, from (i), f (1) = 1 + 12 = 1 + 1 = 2
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and f (– 1) = 1 + (– 1)2 = 1 + 1 = 2.
Now 1 ≠ – 1 but f (1) = f (– 1)]
Is f onto?
Range set = { f (x) = 1 + x2 : x ∈ R}
= { f (x) ≥ 1 (... x2 ≥ 0 always)}
= [1, ∞ ) ≠ co-domain R (= (– ∞ , ∞ ))
∴ f is not onto. ∴ f is neither one-one nor onto.
8. Let A and B be sets. Show that f : A × B → B × A such
that f (a, b) = (b, a) is bijective function.
Sol. Let (a, b), (c, d) ∈ A × B with f (a, b) = f (c, d), then (b, a) =
(d, c)
[... The given rule is f (a, b) = (b, a)]
Equating corresponding entries b = d and a = c
⇒ (a, b) = (c, d) ∴ f is injective (one-one) function. ...(i)
Also, for all (b, a) ∈ co-domain B × A, there exists (a, b)
∈ domain A × B such that by the given rule f (a, b) = (b, a).
Thus every (b, a) ∈ B × A is the image of (a, b) ∈ A × B.
∴ f is surjective (onto) function. ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), f is a one-one onto i.e., bijective function.
9. Let f : N → N be defined by
n + 1
 2 , if n is odd
f (n) =  for all n ∈ N.
 n, if n is even
 2
State whether the function f is onto, one-one or bijective.
Justify your answer.
n + 1
 2 , if n is odd
Sol. f (n) = 
 n, if n is even
 2
To examine whether f is one-one.
Now 3 ∈ N and 4 ∈ N and 3 ≠ 4
3+1
3 ∈ N is odd, ∴ from (i), f (3) = = 2
2
4
4 ∈ N is even, ∴ from (ii), f (4) = = 2
2
∴ f (3) = f (4) but 3 ≠ 4 ∴ f is not one-one.
To examine whether f is onto.
Let us find range of f.
Putting n = 1, 3, 5, ... 2n – 1, ... (all odd) in (i),
1+1 3+1 5+1
f (1) = = 1, f (3) = = 2, f (5) = = 3, ...
2 2 2
2n − 1 + 1
f (2n – 1) = = n, ...
2
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Putting n = 2, 4, 6, ... 2n, ... (all even) in (ii),

2 4 6
f (2) = = 1, f (4) = = 2, f (6) = = 3,
2 2 2
2n
f (2n) = = n, ......
2
∴ Range of f = {1, 2, 3, 4, ..., n, ...} = co-domain N
∴ f is onto. ∴ f is not one-one but onto
Hence, f is not bijective.
Note. While discussing onto, whenever for y ∈ co-domain, there
are two or more than two x ∈ domain, for which f (x) = y. Then
f is never one-one.
Here in the above example for y = 1 ∈ co-domain N, there are
two values of x (i.e., two pre-images) x = 1, x = 2 ∈ domain N
for which f (x) = y
∴ f is not one-one.
10. Let A = R – {3} and B = R – {1}. Consider the function f : A →
x–2
B defined by f (x) = . Is f one-one and onto? Justify
x–3
your answer.
x −2 x −2
Sol. For x1, x2 ∈ A with f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ 1 = 2
x1 − 3 x2 − 3
 x − 2
 On putting x = x1 and x = x2 in f ( x) = 
 x − 3
Cross-multiplying, (x1 – 2)(x2 – 3) = (x1 – 3)(x2 – 2)
⇒ x1x2 – 3x1 – 2x2 + 6 = x1x2 – 2x1 – 3x2 + 6
⇒ – 3x1 – 2x2 = – 2x1 – 3x2 ⇒ – x1 = – x2 ⇒ x1 = x2
∴ f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
x−2
Now let y = f(x) = , ⇒ (x – 3)y = x – 2
x−3
⇒ xy – 3y = x – 2 ⇒ xy – x = 3y – 2
3y − 2
⇒ x(y – 1) = 3y – 2 ⇒ x =
y −1
∴ For every y ≠ 1, i.e., when y ∈ co-domain B, there exists
3y − 2
x = ∈ A = R – {3} such that
y −1
3y − 2
−2
x−2 y−1 3y − 2 − 2y + 2
f (x) = = = = y
x−3 3 y − 2 3y − 2 − 3y + 3
−3
y−1
∴ f is onto.
11. Let f : R → R be defined as f (x) = x4. Choose the correct
answer.
(A) f is one-one onto (B) f is many-one onto
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(C) f is one-one but not onto

(D) f is neither one-one nor onto.
Sol. f : R → R is defined as f (x) = x4 ...(i)
Is f one-one? No
Because 2 and – 2 both belong to domain R, but by (i),
f (2) = 24 = 16 and f (– 2) = (– 2)4 = 16
∴ f (2) = f (– 2) but 2 ≠ – 2
(i.e., f (x1) = f (x2) but x1 ≠ x2)
Is f onto? No
Because range set = { f (x) = x4, x ∈ R}
= { f (x) ≥ 0} (... x4 ≥ 0 for all real x)
= [0, ∞) ≠ co-domain R (= (– ∞, ∞))
∴ f is not onto. ∴ f is neither one-one nor onto.
∴ Option (D) is the correct answer.
12. Let f : R → R be defined as f (x) = 3x. Choose the correct
answer.
(A) f is one-one onto (B) f is many-one onto
(C) f is one-one but not onto
(D) f is neither one-one nor onto.
Sol. f : R → R is defined as f (x) = 3x ...(i)
Is f one-one?
Let x1, x2 ∈ R such that f (x1) = f (x2). ∴ By (i), 3x1 = 3x2
Dividing by 3, x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
Is f onto?
Let y ∈ co-domain R.
Let y = f (x) ∴ y = 3x (By (i))
y
∴ x = ∈ domain R for every y ∈ co-domain R
3
 y
∴ By (i), f (x) = 3x = 3   = y i.e., Range = co-domain.
3
∴ f is onto. ∴ f is both one-one and onto.
∴ Option (A) is the correct answer.
 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Exercise 1.3
1. Let f : {1, 3, 4} → {1, 2, 5} and g : {1, 2, 5} → {1, 3} be given
by f = {(1, 2), (3, 5), (4, 1)} and g = {(1, 3), (2, 3), (5, 1)}. Write
down gof.
Sol. Let A = {1, 3, 4}, B = {1, 2, 5} and C = {1, 3}.
Given: f : A → B and g : B → C ⇒ gof : A → C
i.e., gof : {1, 3, 4} → {1, 3}.
Now f = {(1, 2), (3, 5), (4, 1)} ⇒ f (1) = 2, f (3) = 5, f (4) = 1
Also g = {(1, 3), (2, 3), (5, 1)} ⇒ g(1) = 3, g(2) = 3, g(5) = 1
∴ (gof)(1) = g(f (1)) = g(2) = 3,

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(gof)(3) = g(f (3)) = g(5) = 1 and (gof)(4) = g(f (4)) = g(1) = 3

Hence, gof = {(1, 3), (3, 1), (4, 3)}.
2. Let f, g and h be functions from R to R. Show that
(i) (f + g) oh = foh + goh (ii) (fg) oh = (foh) . (goh)
Sol. Definition of Equal functions
Two functions f and g are said to be equal if they have the same
domain D and f (x) = g(x) for all x ∈ D.
(i) [(f + g) oh](x) = (f + g)(h(x))
(By Def. of composite function)
= f(h(x)) + g(h(x))
(By Def. of sum function)
= (foh)(x) + (goh)(x)
(By Def. of composite function)
= (foh + goh)x (By Def. of sum function) for all x ∈ R, domain.
⇒ (f + g) oh = foh + goh (By Def. of equal functions)
(ii) [(fg) oh](x) = (fg)(h(x)) (By Def. of composite function)
= f (h(x)) . g(h(x)) (By Def. of product function)
= (foh)(x) . (goh)(x)(By Def. of composite function)
= ((foh) . (goh))x (By Def. of product function)
⇒(fg) o h = (foh) . (goh). (By Def. of equal functions)
3. Find gof and fog if
(i) f (x) = | x | and g(x) = | 5x – 2 |
(ii) f (x) = 8x3 and g(x) = x1/3.
Sol. (i) Given: f (x) = | x | ...(i)
and g(x) = | 5x – 2 | ...(ii)
We know that (gof)x = g(f (x)) = g(| x |) [By (i)]
Changing x → | x | in (ii), = | 5 | x | – 2 |
Again (fog)x = f (g(x)) = f (| 5x – 2 |) [By (ii)]
Changing x to | 5x – 2 | in (i) = | | 5x – 2 | | = | 5x – 2 |
[... t ∈ R ⇒ | t | ≥ 0 and hence | | t | | is number | t | itself]
∴ (gof)x = | 5 | x | – 2 | and (fog)x = | 5x – 2 |.
(ii) Given: f (x) = 8x3 ...(i)
and g(x) = x1/3 ...(ii)
We know that (gof)x = g(f (x)) = g(8x3) (By (i))
Changing x to 8x3 in (ii), = (8x3)1/3 = ((2x)3)1/3 = 2x
Again (fog)x = f (g(x)) = f (x1/3) (By (ii))
Changing x to x1/3 in (i), = 8 (x1/3)3 = 8x
∴ (gof)x = 2x and (fog)x = 8x.
4x + 3 2 2
4. If f (x) = , x ≠ , show that fof(x) = x, for all x ≠ .
6x – 4 3 3
What is the inverse of f?
4x + 3 2
Sol. Here f (x) = , x ≠ ...(i)
6x − 4 3

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

 4x + 3 
∴ fof (x) = f (f (x)) = f   [by (i)]
 6x − 4 
 4x + 3 
4 +3  4x + 3 
6x − 4 
=  Replacing x by in (i)
 4x + 3   6x − 4 
6 −4
 6x − 4 
Multiplying by L.C.M. = (6x – 4)
16 x + 12 + 18 x − 12 34 x
(fof ) x = = = x = IA (x) for all
24 x + 18 − 24 x + 16 34
2
x≠
3
2
⇒ fof = IA where A = R –   = domain of f
3 
–1
⇒ f = f.
5. State with reason whether following functions have inverse.
Find the inverse, if it exists.
(i) f : {1, 2, 3, 4} → {10}
with f = {(1, 10), (2, 10), (3, 10), (4, 10)}
(ii) g : {5, 6, 7, 8} → {1, 2, 3, 4}
with g = {(5, 4), (6, 3), (7, 4), (8, 2)}
(iii) h : {2, 3, 4, 5} → {7, 9, 11, 13}
with h = {(2, 7), (3, 9), (4, 11), (5, 13)}
Sol. (i) Since f (1) = f (2) = f (3) = f (4) = 10, f is many-one and
not one-one, so that f does not have inverse.
(ii) Since g(5) = g(7) = 4, g is many-one and not one-one, so
that g does not have inverse.
(iii) Here distinct elements of the domain have distinct images
under h, so that h is one-one. Moreover range of h = {7, 9,
11, 13} = co-domain, so that h is onto.
Since h is one-one and onto, therefore, h has inverse given by
– 1
h = {(7, 2), (9, 3), (11, 4), (13, 5)}.
x
6. Show that f : [– 1, 1] → R, given by f(x) = is one-one.
x+2
Find the inverse of the function f : [– 1, 1] → Range f.
Sol. For x1, x2 ∈ [– 1, 1].
x
Putting x = x1 and x = x2 in f (x) = ,
x+2
x1 x2
f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ =
x1 + 2 x2 + 2
Cross-multiplying,
x1(x2 + 2) = x2(x1 + 2)

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

⇒ x1x2 + 2x1 = x1x2 + 2x2

⇒ 2x1 = 2x2 ⇒ x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
Now we have to find the inverse of the function f : X → Y (say)
= Range of f (given)
where X = [– 1, 1]
 x 
and Y = y∈ R : y = for some x ∈ X  = range of f.
 x+2 
Therefore, f is onto.
[... Co-domain Y = Range of f (given)]
Thus, f is one-one and onto and therefore, f –1 exists.
∴ y = f (x) ⇒ x = f –1(y) ...(i)
– 1
To find f , let us find x in terms of y.
x
Given: y =
x+2
Cross-multiplying,
2y
xy + 2y = x or 2y = x(1 – y) or x = , y ≠ 1 ...(ii)
1− y
From (i) and (ii),
– 1 – 1 2y
∴ f : Y → X is defined by f (y) (= x) = , y ≠ 1.
1− y
7. Consider f : R → R given by f (x) = 4x + 3. Show that f is
invertible. Find the inverse of f.
Sol. Given: f : R → R given by f (x) = 4x + 3 ...(i)
We know that a function f is invertible iff f is one-one and onto.
Is f one-one?
Let x1, x2 ∈ domain R such that f (x1) = f (x2)
∴ By (i), 4x1 + 3 = 4x2 + 3 ⇒ 4x1 = 4x2
Dividing by 4, x1 = x2. ∴ f is one-one.
Is f onto? Let y ∈ co-domain R.
Let y = f (x) = 4x + 3. (By (i))
Let us find x in terms of y.
y = 4x + 3 ⇒ y – 3 = 4x
y−3
⇒ x = ...(ii)
4
 y − 3
∴ By (i), f (x) = 4x + 3 = 4   + 3
 4 
= y – 3 + 3 = y
i.e., Every y is f (x) i.e., co-domain = Range ∴ f is onto also.
∴ f is both one-one and onto and hence f –1 exists.
y−3
∴ f (x) = y ⇒ f –1
(y) = x i.e., f –1(y) = . (By (ii))
4
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

8. Consider f : R+ → [4, ∞) given by f (x) = x2 + 4. Show that f

–1
is invertible with inverse f given by f –1(y) = y – 4 , where
R+ is the set of all non-negative real numbers.
Sol. A function f : R+ → [4, ∞) given by f (x) = x2 + 4. ...(i)
We know that a function f is invertible iff f is one-one and onto.
Is f one-one? Let x1, x2 ∈ domain R+ such that f (x1) = f (x2).
∴ By (i), x12 + 4 = x22 + 4 or x12 = x22
∴ x1 = ± x2
Rejecting negative sign (... x1, x2 ∈ domain R+ and hence can’t
be negative).
∴ x1 = x2.
∴ f is one-one.
Is f onto? Let y ∈ co-domain [4, ∞).
Let y = f (x) = x2 + 4
Let us find x in terms of y. y = x2 + 4 ⇒ y – 4 = x2
⇒ x2 = y – 4 ⇒ x = ± y – 4
Rejecting negative sign (... x ∈ R+),
x = y–4 ...(ii)
and x = y – 4 ∈ R+ because for all y ∈ co-domain [4, ∞),
y ≥ 4 i.e., y – 4 ≥ 0 and hence y – 4 ∈ R+
2
Putting x = y – 4 in f (x) = x + 4, we have
f (x) = ( y – 4 )2 + 4 = y – 4 + 4 = y. Every y = f (x)
i.e., co-domain = Range i.e., f is onto (also). ∴ f –1 exists.
and f (x) = y ⇒ f –1(y) = x ∴ f –1(y) = y – 4 (By (ii))
9. Consider f : R + → [– 5, ∞ ) given by f (x) = 9x 2 + 6x – 5.
 ( y + 6) – 1 
Show that f is invertible with f –1
(y) =  .
 3 
Sol. Given: f : R+ → [– 5, ∞) given by f (x) = 9x2 + 6x – 5 ...(i)
We know that f is invertible iff f is one-one and onto.
Is f one-one? Let x1, x2 ∈ R+ such that f (x1) = f (x2).
∴ By (i), 9x12 + 6x1 – 5 = 9x22 + 6x2 – 5
⇒ 9x1 – 9x22 + 6x1 – 6x1 = 0
2

⇒ 9(x12 – x22) + 6(x1 – x2) = 0

⇒ 9(x1 – x2) (x1 + x2) + 6(x1 – x2) = 0
⇒ (x1 – x2) [9(x1 + x2) + 6] = 0
⇒ (x1 – x2) (9x1 + 9x2 + 6) = 0
But 9x1 + 9x2 + 6 > 0 and hence ≠ 0
(... x1, x2 ∈ R+ ⇒ x1 ≥ 0 and x2 ≥ 0)
∴ x1 – x2 = 0 i.e., x1 = x2 ∴ f is one-one.
Is f onto? Let y ∈ co-domain [– 5, ∞)

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

2
Let y = f (x) = 9x + 6x – 5 (By (i))
Let us find x in terms of y by completing squares on R.H.S.
 2 6x 5   2 2x 5 
y = 9x + 6x – 5 = 9  x + − 
2
= 9 x + − 
 9 9  3 9
2 2
1 
2
1 2 1
Adding and subtracting  coeff. of x  =  ×  =  
 2   2 3  3
 2 2 x  1 2 1 5   1
2
6
y = 9 x + +   − −  = 9  x +  − 
 3 3 9 9   3 9 
2 2
 1  1
or y = 9x +  – 6 ⇒ y + 6 = 9x + 
 3  3
2
 1 y+6 1 y+6
⇒  x + 3 = ⇒ x + = ±
  9 3 9
−1 y+6 −1± y+ 6
⇒ ±
x = =
3 3 3
Rejecting negative sign
 −1− y + 6 1 + y + 6  
∵ then x = =−  ∉ R+ 
 3  3  
   
−1+ y+6
∴ x= ∈ R+ for every y ∈ co-domain [– 5, ∞). ...(ii)
3
∴ By (i), f (x) = 9x2 + 6x – 5
2
−1+ y+ 6 −1+ y+ 6
= 9  + 6  – 5
 3  3
   
= (– 1 + y + 6 )2 + 2(– 1 + y+6) – 5
= 1 + y + 6 – 2 y+6 – 2 + 2 y+6 –5
or f (x) = y i.e., every y = f (x)
i.e., co-domain = range. ∴ f is onto (also).
∴ f –1 exists. ∴ y = f (x) ⇒ f –1(y) = x

–1 −1+
y+6 y+ 6 −1
i.e., f (y) = i.e., .
3 3
10. Let f : X → Y is an invertible function, then f has unique
inverse.
Sol. ... f : X → Y is an invertible function, therefore f has an inverse.
Again because f : X → Y is invertible, therefore, f is one-one and
onto.
i.e., for every y ∈ Y, ∃ a unique x ∈ X such that f (x) = y ...(i)
If possible, let g1 : Y → X and g2 : Y → X be two inverses of f so
that

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

g1(y) = x and g2(y) = x.

Also g1of = IX, fog1 = IY ...(ii)
and also g2of = IX, fog2 = IY ...(iii)
For all y ∈ Y, g1(y) = g1(f (x)) [By (i)]
= (g1of )(x) = IX (x) [By (ii)] = (g2of )(x) [By (iii)]
= g2(f (x)) = g2(y) [By (i)]
∴ g1(y) = g2(y) for all y ∈ Y
⇒ g1 = g2 (By definition of equal functions).
11. Consider f : {1, 2, 3} → {a, b, c} given by f (1) = a,
f (2) = b and f (3) = c. Find f –1 and show that (f –1)–1 = f.
Sol. Given: A function f : {1, 2, 3} (= set
A say) → {a, b, c} (= set B (say)) f
1 a
such that f (1) = a,
f
f (2) = b, f (3) = c ...(i) 2 b
f is one-one because distinct f
3 c
elements of A have distinct images
in B. A B
f is onto.
(... Range set = {a, b, c} = co-domain B)
∴ f –1 B → A exists and hence from (i),
f –1(a) = 1, f –1(b) = 2 and f –1(c) = 3. ...(ii)
Now again by definition of Inverse of a function.
We have from (ii), f –1 : A → B and (f –1)–1 (1) = a,
(f –1)–1 (2) = b and (f –1)–1 (3) = c. ...(iii)
By definition of equal functions, from (iii) and (i), we have
(f –1)–1 = f.
Note. Two functions f and g are said to be equal if they have (i)
same domain and (ii), f (x) = g(x) for all x in their common
domain.
12. Let f : X → Y is an invertible function, then the inverse of
f –1 is f, i.e., (f –1)–1 = f.
Sol. Since f : X → Y is invertible, therefore, there exists a function
–1
g = f : Y → X defined by g(y) = x where f (x) = y.
Also gof = IX and fog = IY ...(i)
Now f is invertible
⇒ f is one-one and onto
⇒ g, the inverse of f is also one-one and onto.
⇒ g is invertible
–1 –1
⇒ g exists and g : X → Y.
From (i), we also have, f is inverse of g
–1
⇒ f=g
–1 –1 –1
Putting g = f , we have f = (f )
–1 –1
Hence (f ) = f.
13. If f : R → R be given by f (x) = (3 – x3)1/3 then ( fof )x is
(A) x1/3 (B) x3 (C) x (D) (3 – x3).
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Sol. f : R → R is given by f (x) = (3 – x3)1/3 ...(i)

We know by definition that
( fof )x = f (f (x)) = f ((3 – x3)1/3) (By (i))
= f (t) where t = (3 – x3)1/3
= (3 – t3)1/3 (By (i))
Putting t = (3 – x3)1/3; = (3 – ((3 – x3)1/3)3)1/3
 1 
= (3 – (3 – x3))1/3. ∵ 3 × 3 = 1 
 
= (3 – 3 + x3)1/3 = (x3)1/3 = x3 × 1/3 = x1 = x
∴ Option (C) is the correct answer.
 4 4x
14. Let f : R –  –  → R be a function defined as f (x) = .
 3 3 x +4
 4
The inverse of f is the map g : Range f → R –  –  given
 3
by
3y 4y
(A) g(y) = (B) g(y) =
3 – 4y 4 – 3y
4y 3y
(C) g(y) = (D) g(y) = .
3 – 4y 4 – 3y
4x
Sol. Given: f (x) = ...(i)
3x + 4
Given: Inverse of f is g. Therefore f is one-one and onto.
4x
∴ y = f (x) = . (By (i))
3x + 4
Let us find x in terms of y .
Cross-multiplying, y(3x + 4) = 4x ⇒ 3xy + 4y = 4x
⇒ – 4x + 3xy = – 4y ⇒ – x(4 – 3y) = – 4y
4y 4y
⇒ x = ⇒ f –1(y) = 4 − 3 y
4 − 3y
[... y = f (x) ⇒ x = f –1(y)]
4y
⇒ g (y) = [... g = f –1 (given)]
4 − 3y
∴ Option (B) is correct option.

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Exercise 1.4
1. Determine whether or not each of the definition of * given
below gives a binary operation. In the event that * is not a
binary operation, give justification for this.
(i) On Z+, define * by a * b = a – b
(ii) On Z+, define * by a * b = ab
(iii) On R, define * by a * b = ab2
(iv) On Z+, define * by a * b = | a – b |
(v) On Z+, define * by a * b = a.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Sol. Definition: Binary operation * on a set A is a function from

A × A → A.
i.e., an operation * on a set A is called binary operation if
a ∈ A and b ∈ A ⇒ a * b ∈ A.
We also know that Z+ denotes the set of positive integers
i.e., Z+ = N.
(i) Given: On Z+ define * by a * b = a – b. ...(i)
Now a = 2 ∈ Z+ and b = 3 ∈ Z+, but a * b = 2 * 3
= 2 – 3 (By (i)) = – 1 ∉ Z+
... Operation in (i) is not a binary operation and hence
*
does not satisfy closure law.
Remark. It may be noted for the above (i) part that if a ∈
Z + , b ∈ Z + and a > b, then a * b = a – b is a positive
integer and hence belongs to Z+.
But let us know that truth is always truth. Hence a result
which is sometimes true and sometimes not true is said to
be not true.
(ii) Given: On Z+, define * by a * b = ab ...(i)
Let a ∈ Z+ = N and b ∈ Z+ = N; then
a * b = ab is the product of two natural numbers and hence
∈ N = Z +.
∴This operation * is a binary operation, i.e., satisfies closure
law.
(iii) Given: On R+ define * by a * b = ab2 ...(i)
We know that R+ denotes the set of positive real numbers
including 0.
Let a ∈ R+ and b ∈ R+ ⇒ a ≥ 0 and b ≥ 0.
∴ By (i), a * b = ab2 ≥ 0 i.e., a * b ∈ R+
∴This operation * is a binary operation i.e.,
satisfies closure law.
(iv) Given: On Z+ define * by a * b = | a – b | ...(i)
We know that a = 2 ∈ Z+ and b = 2 ∈ Z+
But by (i), a * b = | a – b | = | 2 – 2 | = 0 is not a positive
integer and hence ∉ Z+.
∴ This operation * is not a binary operation i.e., does not
satisfy closure law.
Remark. In the above question if we replace the set Z+ by Z+
(the set of positive integers including 0); then by
(i) a * b = | a – b | is either zero or positive integer and hence
∈ Z+ for all a, b ∈ Z+ and hence is a binary operation.
(v) Given: On Z+, define * by a * b = a ...(i)
Let a ∈ Z + and b ∈ Z + . Therefore a and b are positive
integers. Therefore by (i), a * b = a is also a positive integer
and hence ∈ Z+.
∴ Operation * defined in (i) is a binary operation i.e.,
satisfies closure law.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

2. For each binary operation * defined below, determine

whether * is commutative or associative.
(i) On Z, define a * b = a – b
(ii) On Q, define a * b = ab + 1
ab
(iii) On Q, define a * b =
2
(iv) On Z+, define a * b = 2ab
(v) On Z+, define a * b = ab
a
(vi) On R – {– 1}, define a * b =
b+1
Sol. Definition: A binary operation * on a set A is said to be
I commutative if a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ A
II Associative if (a * b) * c = a * (b * c) for all a, b, c ∈ A.
(i) Given: Binary operation on Z, defined as
a * b = a – b ...(i)
where a ∈ Z and b ∈ Z.
Is * commutative? Interchanging a and b in (i),
b * a = b – a = – (a – b)
From (i) and (ii), a * b ≠ b * a (unless a = b)
For example, from (i), 2 * 3 = 2 – 3 = – 1
and 3 * 2 = 3 – 2 = 1 ∴ 2 * 3 ≠ 3 * 2
∴ Binary operation * given by (i) is not commutative.
Is * associative? Let a ∈ Z, b ∈ Z, c ∈ Z.
∴ By (i), (a * b) * c = (a – b) * c = (a – b) – c
= a – b – c ...(iii)
Again by (i),
a * (b * c) = a * (b – c) = a – (b – c) = a – b + c ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
(... Right hand sides are not equal)
For example, (2 * 3) * 4 = (2 – 3) * 4 = – 1 * 4
= – 1 – 4 = – 5
Again 2 * (3 * 4) = 2 * (3 – 4) = 2 * (– 1) = 2 – (– 1) = 3
∴ (2 * 3) * 4 ≠ 2 * (3 * 4)
∴ Binary operation * given by (i) is not associative.
Here * is neither commutative nor associative.
(ii) Given: Binary operation * on Q defined by
a * b = ab + 1 ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Q
Is * commutative? Interchanging a and b in (i),
b * a = ba + 1 = ab + 1 ...(ii)
[... We know that ab = ba for all a, b ∈ Q]
From (i) and (ii), a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ Q

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Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

∴ Binary operation * given by (i) is commutative.

Is * associative? Let a ∈ Q, b ∈ Q, c ∈ Q.
By (i), (a * b) * c = (ab + 1) * c = (ab + 1) c + 1
= abc + c + 1 ...(iii)
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a * (bc + 1) = a(bc + 1) + 1
= abc + a + 1 ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
[... Right hand sides of (iii) and (iv) are not equal]
∴ * is not associative.
Here * is commutative but not associative.
(iii) Given: Binary operation * on Q defined as
ab
a * b = ...(i)
2
for all a, b ∈ Q.
Is * commutative? Interchanging a and b in (i),
ba ab
We have b * a = = ...(ii)
2 2
. .
[ . Ordinary multiplication in Q is commutative]
From (i) and (ii), we have
a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ Q
∴ Binary operation * given by (i) is commutative.
Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ Q
 ab 
 2 c
 ab    = abc
By (i), (a * b) * c =  * c = ...(iii)
 2  2 4

 bc 
a 
 bc 
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a *   =   =
2 abc
...(iv)
 2  2 4
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c = a * (b * c) for all a, b, c
∈ Q
(... Right Hand sides of (iii) and (iv) are equal)
∴ * is associative.
Here * is both commutative and associative.
(iv) Given: Binary operation * on Z+ defined as
a * b = 2ab ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Z+
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i), we have
b * a = 2ba = 2ab ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), we have a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ Z+
∴ * given by (i) is commutative.
Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ Z+.
ab
By (i), (a * b) * c = 2ab * c = 2(2 ).c
...(iii)
MathonGo 33
Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

bc
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a * 2bc = 2a . (2 ) ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv) (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ * given by (i) is associative.
∴ * given by (i), is commutative but not associative.
(v) Given: Binary operation * on Z+ defined as
a * b = ab ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Z+
Is * commutative? Interchanging a and b in (i),
We have b * a = ba ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), a * b ≠ b * a.
∴ * given by (i) is not commutative.
Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ Z+
By (i), (a * b) * c = (ab) * c = (ab)c = abc ...(iii)
c
Again by (2), a * (b * c) = a * (bc) = a(b ) ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ * is not associative.
∴ * given by (i) is neither commutative nor associative.
a
(vi) Since a * b = (given) ...(i)
b+1
b
Interchanging a and b in (i), b * a = ...(ii)
a+1
∴ From (i) and (ii), a * b ≠ b * a
 2 2 1 3 3 
 e. g., 2 * 3 = = = and 3 * 2 = = = 1
 3+1 4 2 2+1 3 
⇒ The binary operation ‘*’ is not commutative.
a
a b+1
Also (a * b) * c = c = [By (i)]
b+1 * c+1
a
=
(b + 1)(c + 1)
b
and a * (b * c) = a *
c+1
a a( c + 1)
= = [By (i)]
b b+ c+1
+1
c+1
so that (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
 2 1 1/ 2 1
 e. g., (2 * 3) * 4 = *4= *4= =
 3 + 1 2 4 + 1 10
3 3 2 10 5 
and 2 * (3 * 4) = 2 * = 2* = = =
4+1 5 3 / 5 + 1 8 4 
⇒ The binary operation ‘*’ is not associative.
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

3. Consider the binary operation ^ on the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}

defined as a ^ b = min {a, b}. Write the operation table of
the operation ^.
Sol. Given: Set is {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} = A (say)
Given: Binary operation ^ on the set A is defined as
a ^ b = min. {a, b} ...(i)
Operation (or composition) table of binary operation ^ given
by (i) is being formed below:

^ 1 ↓ 2 ↓ 3 ↓ 4 ↓ 5 ↓

1 → 1 ^ 1 = 1 1 ^ 2 = 1 1 ^ 3 = 1 1 ^ 4 = 1 1 ^ 5 = 1
2 → 2 ^ 1 = 1 2 ^ 2 = 2 2 ^ 3 = 2 2 ^ 4 = 2 2 ^ 5 = 2
3 → 3 ^ 1 = 1 3 ^ 2 = 2 3 ^ 3 = 3 3 ^ 4 = 3 3 ^ 5 = 3
4 → 4 ^ 1 = 1 4 ^ 2 = 2 4 ^ 3 = 3 4 ^ 4 = 4 4 ^ 5 = 4
5 → 5 ^ 1 = 1 5 ^ 2 = 2 5 ^ 3 = 3 5 ^ 4 = 4 5 ^ 5 = 5

(For example) by (i), 4 ^ 3 = min. {4, 3} = 3 and by (i),

2 ^ 5 = min. {2, 5} = 2)
Remark. (e =) 5 ∈ A is the identity element for this binary
operation ^ because the top row headed by the binary operation ^
coincides with the row headed by 5 in the composition table.
(By definition of identity element e ∈ A is said to be identity
element of binary operation if a ^ e = a for all a ∈ A).
4. Consider a binary operation * on the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} given
by the following multiplication table
(i) Compute (2 * 3) * 4 and 2 * (3 * 4)
(ii) Is * commutative?
(iii) Compute (2 * 3) * (4 * 5).

* 1 2 3 4 5
1 1 1 1 1 1
2 1 2 1 2 1
3 1 1 3 1 1
4 1 2 1 4 1
5 1 1 1 1 5
Sol. (i) To compute (2 * 3) * 4
Now we know that 2 * 3 is the entry at the intersection
of the row headed by 2 and column headed by 3 in the
table and this entry is 1.
∴ (2 * 3) * 4 = 1 * 4 = 1 as explained above.
Again 2 * (3 * 4) = 2 * 1 = 1
∴ (2 * 3) * 4 = 1 and 2 * (3 * 4) = 1

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

(ii) Is * commutative ?
Let us look at each diagonal entry of the main diagonal
starting with *. The corresponding entries of the column
below any such entry and the adjacent row to the same
diagonal entry are same.
∴We can say that there is symmetry about this main
diagonal.
Better method: The matrix formed by the given table is a
symmetric matrix and hence * is commutative.
∴ * is commutative.
(iii) To compute (2 * 3) * (4 * 5)
Now 2 * 3 = Entry in the table at the intersection of row
headed by 2 and column headed by 3 = 1.
Similarly, 4 * 5 = 1 ∴ (2 * 3) * (4 * 5) = 1 * 1 = 1.
5. Let *′ be the binary operation on the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}
defined by a *′ b = H.C.F. of a and b. Is the operation *′
same as the operation * defined in Exercise 4 above?
Justify your answer.
Sol. Given: Binary operation *′ on the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} is defined
as a *′ b = H.C.F. of a and b i.e., highest common factor of a and
b ...(i)
∴ 2 *′ 4 = H.C.F. of 2 and 4
= (Highest common factor of 2 and 4) = 2
3 *′ 5 = H.C.F. of 3 and 5
= (Highest common factor of 3 and 5) = 1 etc.
The composition (operation) table for this binary operation * ′
namely H.C.F. a and b is being given below:
*′ 1 ↓ 2 ↓ 3 ↓ 4 ↓ 5 ↓
1 → 1 1 1 1 1
2 → 2 *′ 1 = 1 2 *′ 2 = 2 2 *′ 3 = 1 2 *′ 4 = 2 2 *′ 5 = 1
3 → 1 1 3 *′ 3 = 3 3 *′ 4 = 1 1
4 → 1 4 *′ 2 = 2 1 4 *′ 4 = 4 1
5 → 1 1 1 1 5 *′ 5 = 5
Now the corresponding entries in this composition table for this
binary operation *′ and the composition table given in exercise 4
are same.
∴ Operation *′ of this Exercise 5 and operation * of Exercise 4
defined on the same set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} are same.
6. Let * be the binary operation on N given by a * b = L.C.M.
of a and b. Find
(i) 5 * 7, 20 * 16 (ii) Is * commutative?
(iii) Is * associative? (iv) Find the identity of * in N
(v) Which elements of N are invertible for the
operation *?
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

Sol. Given: * is a binary operation on N given by

a * b = L.C.M. of a and b ...(i)
i.e., least common multiple of a and b.
(i) ∴ 5 * 7 = L.C.M. of 5 and 7 = 5 × 7 = 35
and 20 * 16 = L.C.M. of 20 and 16
= Least common multiple of 20 and 16. = 80
(... All common multiples of
20 and 16 are 80, 160, 240 etc.)
(ii) Is * commutative?
Let a ∈ N and b ∈ N
∴ by (i), a * b = L.C.M. of a and b
= L.C.M. of b and a = b * a.
∴ * is commutative.
(iii) Is * associative? Let a ∈ N, b ∈ N, c ∈ N
∴ (a * b) * c = (L.C.M. of a and b) * c [By (i)]
= L.C.M. ((L.C.M. of a and b) and c) [By (i)]
or (a * b) * c = L.C.M. of a, b, c ...(ii)
Again a * (b * c) = a * (L.C.M. of b and c) [By (i)]
= L.C.M. (a and (L.C.M. of b and c)) [By (i)]
= L.C.M. of a, b and c ...(iii)
From (ii) and (iii), we have (a * b) * c = a * (b * c)
∴ * is associative.
(iv) To find the identity of * on N.
Let a ∈ N. Now 1 ∈ N
By (i), a * 1 = L.C.M. of a and 1 = a for all a ∈ N
(i.e., a * e = a with e = 1)
∴ 1 ∈ N is the identity element for * on N.
(v) Which elements of N are invertible for the operation *?
Let a ∈ N. Let b ∈ N be inverse of a.
∴ By definition of inverse, a * b = e
∴ By (i), L.C.M. of a and b is e = 1.
Now this is true only when a = 1 and b = 1.
(... Only L.C.M. of 1 and 1 is 1)
∴ 1 ∈N is the only element of N which is invertible.
7. Is * defined on the set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} by a * b = L.C.M. of a
and b a binary operation? Justify your answer.
Sol. Given: Set {1, 2, 3, 4, 5} = A (say)
and operation * is defined on A as a * b = L.C.M. of
a and b ...(i)
Now 2 ∈ A and 3 ∈ A
But by (i), 2 * 3 = L.C.M. of 2 and 3 is 2 × 3 = 6 ∉ A

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

3 * 4 = L.C.M. of 3 and 4 is 3 × 4 = 12 ∉ A
∴ Operation * on the set A is not a binary opeartion on the set A.
(i.e., operation * given by (i) does not satisfy closure law).
Remark. For still better understanding of the concept, the reader
is suggested to construct the operation (i.e., composition) table for
the operation given by (i) and then observe that entries 6, 10, 12,
15, 20 of the composition table don’t belong to A and hence
conclude that operation * is not a binary operation.
8. Let * be the binary operation on N defined by
a * b = H.C.F. of a and b. Is * commutative? Is * associative?
Does there exist identity for this binary operation on N?
Sol. * is a binary operation on N defined as:
a * b = H.C.F. of a and b ...(i)
Is * commutative?
Reproduce Exercise 6(ii) replacing the phrase “L.C.M.” by “H.C.F.”
Is * associative?
Reproduce Exercise 6(iii) replacing the phrase “L.C.M.” by “H.C.F.”
Does there exists identity for this binary operation on N?
We know that there does not exist any natural number e such
that H.C.F. of a and e is a for all a ∈ N. It may be noted that
e ≠ 1 even because a * 1 = H.C.F. of a and 1 is 1 and ≠ a.
(For identity a * e = a and ≠ e).
9. Let * be a binary operation on the set Q of rational
numbers as follows:
(i) a * b = a – b (ii) a * b = a2 + b2
(iii) a * b = a + ab (iv) a * b = (a – b)2
ab
(v) a * b = (vi) a * b = ab2.
4
Find which of the binary operations are commutative and
which are associative.
Sol. (i) Reproduce the solution of Exercise 2(i) replacing Z by Q.
(ii) The given binary operation * is a * b = a2 + b2 ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Q.
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i), we have
b * a = b2 + a2 = a2 + b2 ...(ii)
. .
[ . Addition is commutative in Q]
From (i) and (ii), we have a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ Q.
∴ * is commutative on Q.
Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ Q.
By (i), (a * b) * c = (a2 + b2) * c = (a2 + b2)2 + c2

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Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

= a4 + b4 + 2a2b2 + c2 ...(iii)
2 2 2 2 2 2
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a * (b + c ) = a + (b + c )
= a2 + b4 + c4 + 2b2c2 ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv) (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ Binary operation * is commutative but not associative.
(iii) The given binary operation * on Q is a * b = a + ab ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Q
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i)
We have b * a = b + ba = b + ab ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), a * b ≠ b * a
∴ * is not commutative.
Is * associative?
Let a, b, c ∈ Q
From (i), (a * b) * c = (a + ab) * c = a + ab + (a + ab) c
= a + ab + ac + abc ...(iii)
Again from (i), a * (b * c) = a * (b + bc)
= a + a(b + bc) = a + ab + abc ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv) (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ * is not associative.
∴ Binary operation * is neither commutative nor
associative.
(iv) The given binary operation * on Q is
a * b = (a – b)2 ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ Q
Interchanging a and b in (i), we have
b * a = (b – a)2 = (– (a – b))2 = (a – b)2 = a * b [By (i)]
∴ Binary operation * is commutative.
Is * associative?
Let a, b, c ∈ Q
By (i), (a * b) * c =(a – b)2 * c = ((a – b)2 – c)2
= (a2 + b2 – 2ab – c)2 ...(ii)
Again by (i),
a * (b * c) = a * (b – c)2 = (a – (b – c)2)2
= (a – (b2 + c2 – 2bc))2 = (a – b2 – c2 + 2bc)2
= (– (b2 + c2 – 2bc – a))2
= (b2 + c2 – 2bc – a)2 ...(iii)
From (ii) and (iii), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ Binary operation * is not associative.
∴ Binary operation * is neither commutative nor
associative.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

ab
(v) Given: Binary operation * on Q defined as a * b =
4
for all a, b ∈ Q ...(i)
Is * commutative?

ba ab
Interchanging a and b in (i), b * a = = ...(ii)
4 4
(Multiplication is commutative in Q)
From (i) and (ii), we have a * b = b * a for all a, b ∈ Q.
∴ * is commutative on Q.
Is * associative on Q?
Let a ∈ Q, b ∈ Q, c ∈ Q.
 ab 
 ab   4  c abc
By (i), (a * b) * c =    =
 * c = ...(iii)
 4  4 16

 bc 
a 
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a *
bc
=  4  = abc ...(iv)
4 4 16
From (iii) and (iv), we have (a * b) * c = a * (b * c)
for all a, b, c ∈ Q.
∴ * is associative. ∴ is commutative as well as
associative.
(vi) Given: Binary operation * on Q defined as
a * b = ab2 ...(i)
for all, a, b ∈ Q
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i), we have
b * a = ba2 ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), we have a * b ≠ b * a
∴ * is not commutative.
Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ Q.
By (i), (a * b) * c = (ab2) * c (ab2) c2 = ab2c2 ...(iii)
2 2 2
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a * (bc ) = a (bc )
= ab2c4 ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ * is not associative.
∴ * is neither commutative nor associative.
10. Find which of the operations given above has identity.
Sol. (i) Existence of identity for *.
The binary operation on the set Q of rational numbers is
MathonGo 40
Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

defined as a * b = a – b. ...(i)
If possible, let e ∈ Q be the identity for *.
∴ a * e = e * a (= a) for all a ∈ Q.
∴ By (i), a – e = e – a ⇒ – 2e = – 2a ⇒ e = a ∈ Q
∴ e has infinite values. But this is impossible
[... Identity e for a binary operation is unique]
∴ Identity for this * does not exist.
Even 0 ∈ Q is not the identity for binary operation * given
by (i) as a * 0 (= a – 0 = a ≠ 0 * a (= 0 –
a = – a) for all a ∈ Q
(ii) Existence of identity for *.
Identity element e ∈ Q does not exist for * given by (i), as
a * e = a2 + e2 can never be equal to a.
(iii) Existence of Identity for *
If possible, let e ∈ Q be the identity of binary operation *
given by (i).
∴ a * e = e * a (= a) ∴ By (i), a + ae = e + ea
⇒ a = e ⇒ e = a ∈ Q
⇒ e has infinite values a ∈ Q
But this is impossible because we know that e is unique.
∴ e does not exist for this binary operation *.
(iv) Existence of Identity for *
If possible let e ∈ Q be the identity for * given by (i).
Therefore, a * e = a for all a ∈ Q.
∴ By (i), (a – e)2 = a which is impossible to hold true for
any e ∈ Q.
It is not true even for e = 0 because for e = 0, the above
equation becomes a2 = a which is not true for every a ∈ Q.
∴ Identity element does not exist for this binary operation *.
(v) Does there exist identity element for this binary
operation *?
If possible, let e ∈ Q, be the identity element for *.
ae
∴ a * e = a ⇒ By (i), = a
4
Cross-multiplying, ae = 4a
Dividing by a (if a ≠ 0 i.e., if Q is replaced by Q – {0}); then
e = 4 ∈ Q – {0} is the identity element of this * on Q – {0}.
∴ For this binary operation *, e does not exist for Q but
e exists for Q – {0} and e = 4.
(vi) Does there exist identity element for this binary
operation *?
If possible, let e ∈ Q be the identity element for this
binary operation *.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

∴ a * e = a ⇒ by (i), ae2 = a
Dividing by a (≠ 0 if a ∈ Q – {0}), e2 = 1
∴ e = ± 1 ∈ Q – {0}
Even now e is not unique (because e has two values 1 and – 1)
∴ e does not exist for binary operation * on Q nor exists
for binary operation * if Q is replaced by Q – {0}.
11. Let A = N × N and * be the binary operation on A defined
by (a, b) * (c, d) = (a + c, b + d).
Show that * is commutative and associative. Find the
identity element for * on A, if any.
Sol. For all (a, b) ∈ A = N × N, we are given that
(a, b) * (c, d) = (a + c, b + d) ...(i)
= (c + a, d + b)
[... Addition is commutative on N]
= (c, d) * (a, b) [By (i)]
⇒ * is commutative.
For all (a, b), (c, d), (e, f ) ∈ A = N × N, we have
[(a, b) * (c, d)] * (e, f )= (a + c, b + d) * (e, f ) [By (i)]
= ((a + c) + e, (b + d) + f ) [By (i)]
= (a + (c + e), b + (d + f ))
[... Addition is associative on N]
= (a, b) * (c + e, d + f ) [By (i)]
= (a, b) * [(c, d) * (e, f )] (By (i)]
⇒ * is associative.
Now to find the identity element for * on A, if any
Now suppose (x, y) is the identity element in A = N × N: Then
(a, b) * (x, y) = (a, b), V (a, b) ∈ A (a * e = a)
⇒ (a + x, b + y) = (a, b) [By (i)]
⇒ a + x = a and b + y = b
⇒ x = 0 and y = 0
But 0 ∉ N, therefore (0, 0) ∉ A = N × N
Hence * has no identity element.
12. State whether the following statements are true or false.
Justify.
(i) For any arbitrary binary operation * on a set N,
a * a = a V a ∈ N
(ii) If * is commutative binary operation on N, then
a * (b * c) = (c * b) * a.
Sol. (i) False. Here given a * a = a V a ∈ N ...(i)
Because we know that a binary operation * on a set N is
a function from N × N → N and by definition of function,
Image of every element (a, b) of domain N × N must be
possible.
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

But by given rule (i),

Image of (a, b) (b ≠ a) is undefined.
(ii) True. Because L.H.S. = a * (b * c) = (b * c) * a
[ . . . * is given to be commutative binary operation on
N and b * c ∈ N, a ∈ N]
= (c * b) * a
[... * is given to be commutative binary operation]
= R.H.S.
13. Consider a binary operation * on N defined as a * b
= a3 + b3. Choose the correct answer.
(A) Is * both associative and commutative?
(B) Is * commutative but not associative?
(C) Is * associative but not commutative?
(D) Is * neither commutative nor associative?
Sol. Binary operation * on N is defined as a * b = a3 + b3 ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ N
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i),
b * a = b3 + a3 = a3 + b3 ...(ii)
. .
( . Usual addition is commutative in N)
From (i) and (ii), a * b = b * a ∴ * is commutative.
Is * associative?
Let a, b, c ∈ N
By (i), (a * b) * c = (a3 + b3) * c = (a3 + b3)3 + c3 ...(iii)
Again a * (b * c) = a * (b3 + c3) = a3 + (b3 + c3)3 ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
∴ Binary operation * is not associative.
∴ Binary operation * is commutative but not associative.
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.

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MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISE
1. Let f : R → R be defined by f (x) = 10x + 7. Find the
function g : R → R such that gof = fog = IR.
Sol. Given: f : R → R defined by f (x) = 10x + 7 ...(i)
We are to find a function g : R → R such that gof = fog = IR
. . . It is given that gof = fog = I , therefore by definition of
R
inverse of a function, f –1 exists and g = f –1 ...(ii)
∴ To find function g ⇒ To find f –1.
Because f –1 exists, therefore f is one-one onto function.
∴ y(= f (x)) = 10x + 7 ...(iii)
Let us find x in terms of y.
From (iii), y – 7 = 10x
y−7 y−7
⇒ x = ⇒ f –1(y) = |... y = f (x) ⇒ x = f –1(y)
10 10
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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

y−7
⇒ g(y) = . (... By (ii), f –1 = g)
10
2. Let f : W → W be defined as f (n) = n – 1, if n is odd and
f (n) = n + 1, if n is even. Show that f is invertible. Find the
inverse of f. Here, W is the set of all whole numbers.
Sol. We know that W, the set of all whole numbers = N ∪ {0} where N
is the set of all natural numbers.
For one-one function: Let n1, n2 ∈ W with f (n1) = f (n2)
If n1 is odd and n2 is even, then by the given rule of the function
f, we will have n 1 – 1 = n 2 + 1, i.e., n 1 – n 2 = 2 which is
impossible since the difference of an odd and an even number is
always odd. Similarly, n 1 is even and n 2 is odd is ruled out.
Therefore, both n1 and n2 must be either odd or even.
Suppose n1 and n2 both are odd, then by the given rule of the
function f, f (n1) = f (n2) ⇒ n1 – 1 = n2 – 1
⇒ n1 = n2. Similarly, if n1 and n2 both are even, then
f (n1) = f(n2)
⇒ n1 + 1 = n2 + 1 ⇒ n1 = n2. ∴ f is one-one.
Now let us prove that f is onto
According to given,
f (n) = n – 1 if n is odd ⇒ f(n) is even (... Odd – 1 = Even) ...(i)
and f (n) = n + 1 if n is even
⇒ f (n) is odd (... Even + 1 = Odd) ...(ii)
Let y ∈ Co-domain W
Case I. y is Even
∴ From (i), y = f (n) = n – 1 ∴ n = y + 1 is odd ...(iii)
Case II. y is odd
∴ From (ii), y = f (n) = n + 1 ∴ n = y – 1 is even ...(iv)
∴ From (iii), for every even y ∈ co-domain W,
there exsts odd n = y + 1 such that f (n) = y.
and from (iv), for every odd y ∈ co-domain W,
there exists even n = y – 1 such that f (n) = y. ∴ f is onto.
Thus, f is one-one and onto and therefore invertible.
∴ f (n) = y ⇒ f – 1(y) = n
∴ From (iv) and (iii), we have
 y − 1 if y is odd ...(v)
f – 1 (y) (= n) = 
 y + 1 if y is even ...(vi)
From (i), (ii), (v) and (vi); f = f –1
Note. 0 ∈ W is even.
3. Let f : R → R be defined by f (x) = x2 – 3x + 2, find f (f (x)).
Sol. f : R → R is defined by f (x) = x2 – 3x + 2 ...(i)
∴ f (f (x)) = f (x2 – 3x + 2) ...[By (i)]
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Changing x to x2 – 3x + 2 in (i)
= (x2 – 3x + 2)2 – 3(x2 – 3x + 2) + 2
= x4 + 9x2 + 4 – 6x3 – 12x + 4x2 – 3x2 + 9x – 6 + 2
(... (a + b + c)2 = a2 + b2 + c2 + 2ab + 2bc + 2ac)
= x – 6x + 10x2 – 3x.
4 3

4. Show that the function f : R → {x ∈ R : – 1 < x < 1} defined

x
by f (x) = , x ∈ R is one-one and onto function.
1 +| x |
Sol. Given: f : R → {x ∈ R : – 1 < x < 1}
x
given by f (x) = ...(i)
1 + | x|
To prove: f is one-one
Case I. x ≥ 0
x
∴ | x | = x and therefore from (i), f (x) = ...(ii)
1+ x
Let x1 ∈ R, x2 ∈ R (such that x1 ≥ 0, x2 ≥ 0) and f (x1) = f (x2)
x1 x2
∴ From (ii), =
1 + x1 1 + x2
Cross-multiplying, x1(1 + x2) = x2(1 + x1)
⇒ x1 + x1x2 = x2 + x1x2 ⇒ x1 = x2.
Case II. x < 0
x
∴ | x | = – x and therefore from (i), f (x) = ...(iii)
1− x
Let x1 ∈ R, x2 ∈ R (such that x1 < 0, x2 < 0) and f (x1) = f (x2)
x1 x2
∴ From (iii), =
1 − x1 1 − x2
Cross-multiplying, x1(1 – x2) = x2(1 – x1)
or x1 – x1x2 = x2 – x1x2 or x1 = x2
∴ In both the cases I and II,
f (x1) = f (x2) ⇒ x1 = x2. ∴ f is one-one.
To prove: f is onto.
According to given,
Co-domain = {x : – 1 < x < 1}
i.e., = {y : – 1 < y < 1} = open interval (– 1, 1)
(... Elements of co-domain are generally denoted by y)
Let us find range f (x)
x
From eqn. (ii), for x ≥ 0, f (x) =
1+ x
We know that for x ≥ 0, x < 1 + x
x
Dividing by 1 + x, < 1 i.e., f (x) < 1 ...(iv)
1+ x

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x
From eqn. (iii) for x < 0, f (x) =
1− x
We know that for x < 0, x > x – 1
(... x – 1 is more negative than x)
⇒ x > – 1 (1 – x)
x
Dividing both sides by (1 – x) (> 0), > – 1
1− x
i.e., f (x) > – 1 i.e., – 1 < f (x) ...(v)
From (v) and (iv) – 1 < f (x) < 1
i.e., Range set = open interval (– 1, 1) = co domain (given)
∴ f is onto. ∴ f is one-one and onto.
5. Show that the function f : R → R given by f (x) = x 3 is
injective.
Sol. Function f : R → R given by f (x) = x3 ...(i)
Let x1, x2 ∈ domain R such that f (x1) = f (x2)
∴ By (i), x13 = x23 ⇒ x1 = x2
∴ f is injective (function) i.e., one-one function.
6. Give examples of two functions f : N → Z and g : Z → Z
such that gof is injective but g is not injective.
Sol. Let us define f : N → Z as f (x) = x ...(i)
and g : Z → Z as g(x) = | x | ...(ii)
To prove: g is not injective i.e., g is not one-one.
Now x1 = – 1 ∈ Z, x2 = 1 ∈ Z
From (ii), g(x1) = g(– 1) = | – 1 | = 1
and g(x2) = g(1) = | 1 | = 1
Now g(x1) = g(x2) (= 1) but x1(= – 1) ≠ x2(= 1)
∴ g is not injective.
Let us find the function gof
... f : N → Z and g : Z → Z, therefore gof : N → Z
(... Domain of gof by def. is always same as domain of f)
and (gof)(x) = g(f (x)) = g(x) [By (i)]
= | x | [By (ii)]
i.e., (gof)x = | x | for all x ∈ domain N
= x ...(iii)
(... x ∈ N ⇒ x ≥ 1 ⇒ x > 0 and hence | x | = x)
To prove: gof is one-one.
Let x1, x2 ∈ N (domain of gof) such that
(gof)x1 = (gof) x2 ⇒ By (iii), x1 = x2
∴ gof is one-one (i.e., injective)
∴ For the above example, gof is injective but g is not injective.
Remark. A second example for the above question is:
take f (x) = 2x and g(x) = x2.
7. Give examples of two functions f : N → N and g : N → N
such that gof is onto but f is not onto.

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Sol. Let f : N → N be defined by f (x) = 2x ...(i)

∴ Range set = { f (x) = 2x : x ∈ N}
= {2 × 1, 2 × 2, 2 × 3, ...} = {2, 4, 6, 8, 10, ...}
= Set of even natural numbers ≠ co-domain N.
∴ f is not onto.
1
Let g : N → N be defined by g (x) = x ...(ii)
2
∴ gof is a function from N → N and is defined as
1
(gof) x = g(f (x)) = g(2x) = (2x) [By (i)]
2
= x
∴ (gof ) : N → N and (gof )x = x
∴ (gof )(1) = 1, (gof )(2) = 2 etc.
i.e., Range of gof is N and equals to co-domain N.
∴ gof is onto but f is not onto (proved above).
8. Given a non-empty set X; consider P(X) which is the set of
all subsets of X.
Define the relation R in P(X) as follows:
For subsets A, B in P(X), ARB if and only if A ⊂ B. Is R an
equivalence relation on P(X)? Justify your answer.
Sol. Given: The set P(X) which is the set of all subsets of X.
Given: For subsets A, B in P(X); ARB if and only if
A ⊂ B ...(i)
Is R reflexive? Let A ∈ P(X).
Putting B = A in (i), we have A ⊂ A
which is true. (... Every set is a subset of itself)
∴ By (i), ARA and hence R is reflexive.
Is R symmetric? Let A ∈ P(X) and B ∈ P(X) and ARB
∴ By (i), A ⊂ B
∴ B is not a subset of A
(See the adjoining figure) A
∴ B is not related to A. B
Hence R is not symmetric.
Is R transitive? Let A ∈ P(X), B ∈ P(X) and C ∈ P(X) such
that ARB and BRC.
∴ By (i), A ⊂ B and B ⊂ C
∴ A ⊂ C ∴ By (i), ARC. ∴ R is transitive.
A
∴ R is reflexive and transitive but not
B
symmetric. Hence R is not an equivalence C
relation on the set P(X).
9. Given a non-empty set X, consider the binary operation * :
P(X) × P(X) → P(X) given by A * B = A ∩ B V A, B in P(X),
where P(X) is the power set of X. Show that X is the
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identity element for this operation and X is the only

invertible element in P(X) with respect to the operation *.
Sol. We know that P(X), the power set of X is the set of all subsets of
the set X.
Given: The binary operation *:
P(X) × P(X) → P(X) defined as A * B = A ∩ B ...(i)
for all A, B in P(X).
To show that the set X ∈ P(X) is the identity
element for the binary operation * defined in (i)
Let A ∈ P(X) (⇒ A ⊂ X)
By (i) A * X = A ∩ X = A (can be seen
from the adjoining figure)
similarly X * A = X ∩ A = A A X
∴ A* X =A= X *A V A ∈ P(X)
∴ set X is the identity element for the
binary operation *. (ii)
(a * e = a = e * a)
To find invertible elements in P(X) w.r.t. binary operation *.
Let A ∈ P(X) be an invertible element of P(X).
Therefore there exists B ∈ P(X).
(By def. of inverse) A B
such that A * B = E
∴ By (i), A ∩ B = X [by (ii)] X
and this equation can hold true only when A = X and also
B = X. (... Only X ∩ X = X)
∴ A = X is the only invertible element of P(X) (having B
= X as its inverse).
10. Find the number of all onto functions from the set {1, 2, 3,
..., n} to itself.
Sol. The given set is {1, 2, 3, ..., n} = A (say)
This set A is a finite set having only n elements.
We know that every onto function from a finite set A → A is
one-one and conversely every one-one function from finite set A
→ A is also onto.
∴ Number of onto functions f from A to A here
= Number of one-one functions f from A to A ...(i)
Since f is one-one, therefore image of 1 ∈ A can be any one of the
n elements of A.
Now image of 2 ∈ A can be any one of the remaining (n – 1)
elements of A (... f is one-one ⇒ No two elements have the
same image i.e., repetition is not allowed.)
Similarly, image of 3 ∈ A can be any one of the remaining
(n – 2) elements of A and so on.
∴ Total number of onto functions from A → A
(i.e., one-one functions from A → A). [By (i)]
= n(n – 1)(n – 2) ... 1
= n !. [By Multiplication Rule of Principle of counting]
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11. Let S = {a, b, c} and T = {1, 2, 3}. Find F–1 of the following
functions F from S to T, if it exists.
(i) F = {(a, 3), (b, 2), (c, 1)} (ii) F = {(a, 2), (b, 1), (c, 1)}.
Sol. (i) Given: S = {a, b, c} and T = {1,
a 1
2, 3}.
Given: Function F : S → T is b 2
F = {(a, 3), (b, 2), (c, 1)} c 3
⇒ F(a) = 3, F(b) = 2, F(c) = 1.
This function F is one-one S T
because distinct element a, b, c have distinct images 3, 2, 1.
F is onto because range set
= {3, 2, 1} = {1, 2, 3} = co-domain T.
∴ F is one-one and onto function and hence F–1 exists and
is given by
F–1(3) = a, F–1(2) = b, and F–1(1) = c
∴ Function F–1 = {(3, a), (2, b), (1, c)}
(ii) Given: S = {a, b, c} and a 1
T = {1, 2, 3}
b 2
Given: Function
F = {(a, 2), (b, 1), (c, 1)} c 3
⇒ F(a) = 2, F(b) = 1 and F(c) = 1 S T
∴ F is not one-one because F(b) = F(c)(= 1) but b ≠ c i.e.,
two elements b and c of the domain have same image 1.
∴ F is not onto because range set of F is {2, 1}
≠ co-domain
T = {1, 2, 3}. ∴ F –1 does not exist.
[ ... F–1 exists iff F is one-one and onto]
12. Consider the binary operations * : R × R → R and o : R × R
→ R defined as a * b = | a – b | and a o b = a, V a, b ∈ R.
Show that * is commutative but not associative, o is
associative but not commutative. Further, show that V a, b,
c ∈ R, a * (b o c) = (a * b) o (a * c). [If it is so, we say that
the operation * distributes over the operation o]. Does o
distribute over *? Justify your answer.
Sol. Given: Binary operation * : R × R → R is defined as
a * b = | a – b | ...(i)
for all a, b ∈ R.
Is * commutative?
Interchanging a and b in (i), we have
b * a = | b – a | = | – (a – b) | = | a – b | ...(ii)
[... | – t | = | t | V t ∈ R]
From (i) and (ii), we have a * b = b * a V a, b ∈ R.
∴ * is commutative.

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Is * associative? Let a, b, c ∈ R.
By (i), (a * b) * c = | a – b | * c = | | a – b | – c | ...(iii)
Again by (i), a * (b * c) = a * | b – c | = | a – | b – c | | ...(iv)
From (iii) and (iv), (a * b) * c ≠ a * (b * c)
For example, (2 * 3) * 4 = | 2 – 3 | * 4 = 1 * 4 = | 1 – 4 | = 3
Again 2 * (3 * 4) = 2 * | 3 – 4 | = 2 * 1 = | 2 – 1 | = 1
∴ (2 * 3) * 4 ≠ 2 * (3 * 4)
∴ Binary operation * is not associative.
Also given: o is a binary operation from R × R → R defined as
a o b = a V a, b ∈ R ...(v)
Is o commutative? Interchanging a and b in (v), we
have b o a = b ...(vi)
From (v) and (vi) a o b ≠ b o a
∴ o is not commutative.
Is o associative? Let a, b, c ∈ R.
By (v), (a o b) o c = a o c = a ...(vii)
Again by (v), a o (b o c) = a o b = a ...(viii)
From (vii) and (viii) (a o b) o c = a o (b o c)
∴ o is associative.
Now we are to prove that a * (b o c) = (a * b) o (a * c)
L.H.S. = a * (b o c) = a * b [By (v)]
= | a – b | ...(ix) [By (i)]
Again R.H.S. = (a * b) o (a * c) = | a – b | o | a – c | [By (i)]
= | a – b | ...(x) [By (v)]
From (ix) and (x), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
i.e., a * (b o c) = (a * b) o (a * c) ...(xi)
∴ We can say that the operation * distributes itself over the
operation o.
Now we are to examine if binary operation o distributes over
binary operation *.
i.e., Is eqn. (xi) true on interchanging * and o.
i.e., if a o (b * c) = (a o b) * (a o c) ...(xii)
L.H.S. = a o (b * c) = a o | b – c | [By (i)]
= a [By (v)]
Again, R.H.S. = (a o b) * (a o c) = a * a [By (v)]
= | a – a | = 0 [By (i)]
∴ L.H.S. ≠ R.H.S.
∴ Eqn. (xii) is not true. i.e., o does not distribute over *.
13. Given a non-empty set X, let * : P(X) × P(X) → P(X) be
defined as A * B = (A – B) ∪ (B – A), V A, B ∈ P(X). Show
that the empty set φ is the identity for the operation * and
all the elements A of P(X) are invertible with A–1 = A.
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Sol. A * B = (A – B) ∪ (B – A) V A, B ∈ P(X) ...(i) (given)

Replacing B by φ in (i),
A * φ = (A – φ) ∪ (φ – A) = A ∪ φ = A
⇒ A * φ = A V A ∈ P(X) ∴ φ is the identity for *
Again replacing B by A in eqn. (i), we have
A * A = (A – A) ∪ (A – A) = φ ∪ φ = φ
⇒ A*A= φ ⇒ A is invertible and A–1 = A.
Remark. We know that (A – B) ∪ (B – A) is called symmetric
difference of sets A and B is denoted by A ∆ B.
14. Define a binary operation * on the set {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5} as
 a + b, if a + b < 6
a * b = 
 a + b – 6 if a + b ≥ 6
Show that zero is the identity for this operation and each
element a ≠ 0 of the set is invertible with 6 – a being the
inverse of a.
Sol. Given: set {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5} = A (say)
Given: binary operation * defined on the set A is defined as
 a + b, if a + b < 6 ...(i)
a * b = 
 a + b – 6 if a + b ≥ 6 ...( ii)
The composition (operation) Table for this binary operation
* defined by (i) and (ii) is being given below:

→
* 0 1 2 3 4 5

0 0 + 0 = 0 0 + 1 = 1 0 + 2 = 2 0 + 3 = 3 0 + 4 = 4 0 + 5 = 5
→ by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i)
1 1 + 0 = 1 1 + 1 = 2 1 + 2 = 3 1 + 3 = 4 1 + 4 = 5 1 + 5 – 6 =0
by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i) by (ii)
2 2 + 0 = 2 2 + 1 = 3 2 + 2 = 4 2 + 3 = 5 2 + 4 – 6 2 + 5 – 6
by (i) by (i) by (i) by (i) =0 =1
by (ii) by (ii)
3 3 + 0 = 3 3 + 1 = 4 3 + 2 = 5 3 + 3 – 6 3 + 4 – 6 3 + 5 – 6
by (i) by (i) by (i) =0 =1 =2
by (ii) by (ii) by (ii)
4 4 + 0 = 4 4 * 1 = 4 * 2 4 * 3 = 4 * 4 4 * 5
by (i) 4 + 1 = 5 = 4 + 2–6 4 + 3–6 4 + 4 – 6 = 4 + 5 – 6
=0 =1 =2 =3
by (ii) by (ii) by (ii) by (ii)
(ä4 + 2 =6)
5 5 * 0 = 5 * 1 = 5 * 2 5 * 3 = 5 * 4 = 5 * 5
5 + 0 = 5 5 + 1 – 6 = 5 + 2–6 5 + 3 – 6 5 + 4 – 6 = 5 + 5 – 6
= 0 by (ii) = 1 by (ii) = 2 =3 =4
( ä 5+1= 6) ( ä 5+2>6) by (ii) by (ii) by (ii)
( ä 5+4>6)

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Now the row headed by * coincides with the row headed by 0.

∴ (e =) 0 ∈ A is the identity element for the binary operation *
here.
(ä a * e = a = e * a V a ∈ A)
Now we are to find inverse of each element a ≠ 0 ∈ A.
In the row headed by a = 1, identity 0 occurs at last place and
the entry vertically above it is 5 = 6 – 1 = 6 – a
ä Inverse of a = 1 is 6 – a (= 5) |a * b = e
In the row headed by a = 2, identity 0 occurs at 5th place and
the entry vertically above it is 4 = 6 – 2 = 6 – a
∴ Inverse of a = 2 is 6 – a (= 4) |a * b = e
In the row headed by a = 3, identity 0 occurs at 4th place and
the entry vertically above it is 3 = 6 – 3 = 6 – a
In the row headed by a = 4, identity 0 occurs at third place and
the entry vertically above it is 2 = 6 – 4 = 6 – a (a * b = e)
In the row headed by a = 5, identity 0 occurs at second place and
the entry vertically above it is 1 = 6 – 5 = 6 – a.
∴ Inverse of each a ≠ 0 ∈ A is (6 – a) ∈ A.
Remarks: The reader is strongly suggested to do every question
of binary operation on a finite set by the help of composition
Table.
15. Let A = {– 1, 0, 1, 2}, B = {– 4, – 2, 0, 2} and f, g : A → B
be functions defined by f (x) = x 2 – x, x ∈ A and

1
g(x) = 2 x– – 1, x ∈ A. Are f and g equal? Justify your
2
answer.
Sol. Given: Set A = {– 1, 0, 1, 2} and set B = {– 4, – 2, 0, 2}.
Function f : A → B is defined by f (x) = x2 – x, x ∈ A ...(i)
1
and g : A → B is defined by g(x) = 2 x – – 1, x ∈ A ...(ii)
2
We know that two functions f and g are said to be equal if f and
g have same domain (which is same here namely set A) and f (x)
= g(x) for all x ∈ A.
Here A = {– 1, 0, 1, 2}
From (i), f (– 1)=(– 1)2 – (– 1) = 1 + 1 = 2
1 3 3
From (ii), g(– 1)=2 − 1 – – 1 = 2 − – 1 = 2  – 1
2 2 2
= 3 – 1 = 2 ∴ f (– 1) = g(– 1) (= 2)
From (i), f (0)=02 – 0 = 0 – 0 = 0

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1 1
From (ii), g(0) = 2 − – 1 = 2  – 1 = 1 – 1 = 0
2 2
∴ f (0) = g(0) = (= 0)
From (i), f (1) = 12 – 1 = 1 – 1 = 0

1 1
From (ii), g(1) = 2 1− – 1 = 2  – 1 = 1 – 1 = 0
2 2
∴ f (1) = g(1) (= 0)
From (i), f (2) = 22 – 2 = 4 – 2 = 2

1 3 3
and g(2) = 2 2 − – 1 = 2 – 1 = 2  – 1
2 2 2
= 3 – 1 = 2
∴ f (2) = g(2) (= 2)
∴ f (x) = g(x) for all x ∈ their common domain A.
∴ f = g.
16. Let A = {1, 2, 3}. Then number of relation containing (1, 2)
and (1, 3) which are reflexive and symmetric but not
transitive is
(A) 1 (B) 2 (C) 3 (D) 4.
Sol. Given: Set A = {1, 2, 3}
∴ A × A = {1, 2, 3} × {1, 2, 3}
A × A = {(1, 1), (1, 2), (1, 3), (2, 1), (2, 2), (2, 3),
(3, 1), (3, 2), (3, 3)} ...(i)
This set A × A has 3 × 3 = 9 elements.
We know that every relation on the set A is a subset of A × A.
We know that a reflexive relation on the set A must contain all
elements of the type (a, a) V a ∈ A. ...(ii)
∴ A relation on this set A containing (1, 2) and (1, 3) (given)
which is reflexive and symmetric but not transitive is
R = {(1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1), (1, 3), (3, 1)} ...(iii)
↓ ↓ ↓ (given)
(for reflexive) (given) For symmetric
This relation R has 7 elements out of 9 elements of A × A.
Now element (2, 3) of A × A can’t be included in R above because
then (3, 2) will also have to be included in R.
(... R is symmetric (given))
and then R will become = A × A and hence will be an equivalence
relation and hence will be transitive also.
The relation R given by (iii) is not transitive because (2, 1) ∈ R
and (1, 3) ∈ R but (2, 3) ∉ R.

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

∴ Relation R given by (ii) is the only one required relation.

∴ Option (A) is the correct answer.
17. Let A = {1, 2, 3}. Then number of equivalence relations
containing (1, 2) is
(A) 1 (B) 2 (C) 3 (D) 4.
Sol. Given: Set A = {1, 2, 3}
∴ A × A = {1, 2, 3} × {1, 2, 3}
A × A = {(1, 1), (1, 2), (1, 3), (2, 1), (2, 2),
(2, 3), (3, 1), (3, 2), (3, 3)} ...(i)
This set A × A has 3 × 3 = 9 elements.
We know that every relation on the set A is a subset of A × A.
We know that a reflexive relation on the set A must contain all
elements of the type (a, a) V a ∈ A. ...(ii)
We know (and can observe from eqn. (i)) that A × A is the largest
equivalence relation on the set A (of course containing (1, 2) also)
...(iii)
Let us write another equivalence relation R on the set A
containing (1, 2).
This equivalence relation
R = {(1, 1), (2, 2), (3, 3), (1, 2), (2, 1)} ...(iv)
↓ ↓ ↓
(for reflexive) (given) For symmetric
Now (1, 3) can’t be included in R because then (3, 1) will also has
to be taken in R (... R being equivalence relation is symmetric
also) and then (3, 2) will also has to be taken in R.
(... (3, 1) ∈ R, (1, 2) ∈ R) ⇒ (3, 2) ∈ R because R being an
equivalence relation is transitive also)
Now if (3, 2) ∈ R, then (2, 3) has also to be included in R because
R being equivalence relation is symmetric.
Hence relation R given by (iv) containing 5 elements of A × A will
also include the remaining 4 elements of A × A namely (1, 3), (3, 1),
(3, 2), (2, 3) and hence relation R given by (iv) will become A × A.
Therefore A × A and relation R given by (iv) are the only two
equivalence relations on the set A containing (1, 2).
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.
18. Let f : R → R be the Signum Function defined as
 1, x > 0

f (x) =  0, x = 0
 – 1, x < 0

and g : R → R be the Greatest Integer Function given by
g(x) = [x], where [x] is greatest integer less than or equal to
x. Then, does fog and gof coincide in (0, 1]?

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 Class 12 Chapter 1 - Relations and Functions

 1, x > 0 ...(i)

Sol. Given: f : R → R defined as f (x) =  0, x = 0 ...(ii)
 − 1, x < 0
 ...(iii)
and g : R → R defined as g(x) = [x] ...(iv)
where [x] denotes the greatest integer less than or equal to x.
The given interval is (0, 1].
On open interval (0, 1);
(fog)x = f (g(x)) = f ([x]) [By (iv)] = f (0)
. .
( . We know that on open interval (0, 1), [x] = 0
0 1
∴ (fog)x = 0 V x in open interval (0, 1) ...(v)
Again (fog)1 = f (g(1)) = f ([1]) [By (iv)]
= f (1) = 1 (... By (i), f (x) = 1 for x > 0) ...(vi)
Now on (0, 1)
(gof)x = g (f (x)) = g(1) (... By (i), f (x) = 1 for x > 0) [By (i)]
= [1] [By (iv)] = 1
∴ (gof)x = 1 for all x in (0, 1] ...(vii)
The two functions fog and gof have the same domain (0, 1] but
(fog)x (given by (v) and (vi) ≠ (gof)x (given by (vii)) V x in (0, 1]
∴fog ≠ gof on (0, 1] i.e., the two functions don’t coincide on (0, 1].
19. Number of binary operations on the set {a, b} is
(A) 10 (B) 16 (C) 20 (D) 8.
Sol. The given set {a, b} (= A (say)) has 2 (= n) elements.
∴ Number of binary operations on this set A.

n2 ) 2
= n( (Formula) = 2(2 ) = 24 = 16
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.

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 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Exercise 2.1
Find the principal values of the following:
 1
1. sin–1  –  .
2

MathonGo 1
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 1 1
Sol. Let sin–1  −  = y, then sin y = –
 2 2

 π π
Since the range of the principal value branch of sin–1 is  − ,  ,
 2 2

 π π
therefore, y ∈  − ,  i.e., y is in fourth quadrant (– θ) or in first
 2 2
quadrant. Also sin y is negative, therefore, y lies in fourth
quadrant and y is negative (i.e., – θ).
 1 1
Now sin–1  −  = – sin–1 (... sin–1 (–x) = – sin–1x)
2 2
π π
= – sin–1sin = –
6 6
 1  π
∴ Principal value of sin–1  −  is  −  .
2  6
 3
2. cos–1  .
 2 
 3 3
Sol. Let cos–1   = y, then cos y =
 2  2
Since the range of the principal value branch of cos–1 is [0, π],
therefore, y ∈ [0, π] i.e., y is in first or second quadrant. Also
cos y is positive, therefore, y lies in first quadrant.
 3 π π
Now cos–1   = cos–1cos =
 2  6 6
 3 π
∴ Principal value of cos–1   is .
 2  6
–1
3. cosec (2).
Sol. Let θ = cosec–1 2 ∴ θ is in first quadrant because x = 2 > 0.
( . . . If x > 0, then value of each inverse function lies in first
quadrant.)
π π
∴ θ = cosec–1 2 = cosec–1 cosec = .
6 6
4. tan–1 (– 3 ).
Sol. Let tan–1 (– 3 ) = y, then tan y = – 3
Since the range of the principal value branch of tan –1 is
 π π  π π
 − 2 , 2  , therefore, y ∈  − 2 , 2  i.e., y is in fourth quadrant
 
(– θ) or y is in first quadrant. Also tan y is negative, therefore, y
lies in fourth quadrant and y is negative (i.e., – θ).
MathonGo 2
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Now tan–1 (– 3 ) = –tan–1 3 (... tan–1(–x) = –tan–1x)

π π
= –tan–1 tan = –
3 3
 π
∴ Principal value of tan–1 (– 3 ) is  −  .
 3
 1
5. cos–1  –  .
 2
 1 1
Sol. Let cos–1  −  = y, then cos y = –
 2 2
Since the range of the principal value branch of cos–1 is [0, π],
therefore, y ∈ [0, π] i.e., y is in first or second quadrant. Also
cos y is negative, therefore, y lies in second quadrant (i.e., y = π– θ).
 1 1
Now cos–1  −  = π – cos–1 (... cos–1(–x) = π – cos–1x)
2 2
π π 2π
= π – cos–1 cos = π– =
3 3 3
 1 2π
∴ Principal value of cos–1  −  is .
2 3
–1
6. tan (– 1).
π
Sol. Let θ = tan–1 (– 1) ∴ θ lies between – and 0 (... x = – 1 < 0)
2
[Note. For x < 0, values of sin –1 x, tan –1 x and cosec –1 x lies
π
between – and 0.]
2
π π
∴ tan–1 (–1) = – tan–11 = – tan–1 tan = –
4 4
 2 
7. sec–1 
 3 
.

 2  2
Sol. Let sec–1 
 3 
= y, then sec y =
3
Since the range of the principal value branch of sec–1 is [0, π]
π π
–   , therefore, y ∈ [0, π] –   i.e., y is in first quadrant or
2 2
second quadrant. Also sec y is positive, therefore, y lies in first
quadrant.
 2   π π
Now, sec–1   = sec–1  sec  =
3  6 6
 2  π
∴ Principal value of sec–1   is .
3 6
8. cot–1 ( 3 ).
Sol. Let θ = cot–1 ( 3 )

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 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

∴ θ is in first quadrant because x = 3 > 0.

π π
∴ θ = cot–1 3 = cot–1 cot = .
6 6
 – 1
9. cos–1 
 2 
.

 1 
Sol. Let θ = cos–1  − 
 2
π 1
∴ θ lies between and π (... x = – < 0)
2 2
(Note. For x < 0, value of cos x, cot x and sec–1 x lies between
–1 –1

π
and π.)
2
 1  1
∴ cos–1  −  = π – cos–1
 2 2
π π 4π − π 3π
= π – cos–1 cos = π – = = .
4 4 4 4
10. cosec–1 (– 2 ).
–1
Sol. Let cosec (– 2 ) = y, then cosec y = – 2
 π π
Since the range of the principal value branch of cosec–1 is  − , 
 2 2
 π π 
– {0}, therefore, y ∈  − ,  – {0}. Also cosec y is negative,
 2 2
therefore, y lies in fourth quadrant (– θ) and y is negative.
Now, cosec–1 (– 2 ) = – cosec–1 2 (... cosec–1(–x) = – cosec–1x)
π π
= – cosec–1 cosec = –
4 4
 π
∴ Principal value of cosec–1 (– 2 ) is  −  .
 4
Find the value of the following:
 1  1
11. tan–1 (1) + cos–1  –  + sin–1  –  .
2 2
 1  1
Sol. tan–1 (1) + cos–1  −  + sin–1  − 
 2  2
1 1
= tan–11 + π – cos–1 – sin–1
2 2
π π π
= tan–1 tan + π – cos–1 cos – sin–1 sin
4 3 6
π π π 3π + 12π – 4π – 2π
= + π– – =
4 3 6 12

MathonGo 4
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

9π 3π
= =
12 4

 1  1
12. cos–1   + 2 sin–1   .
 2  2
 1  1 π π
Sol. cos–1   + 2 sin–1   = cos–1 cos + 2 sin–1 sin
 2  2 3 6
π π π π 2π
= + 2  = + = .
3 6 3 3 3
13. If sin–1 x = y, then
π π
(A) 0 ≤ y ≤ π (B) – ≤ y ≤
2 2
π π
(C) 0 < y < π (D) – < y < .
2 2
Sol. Option (B) is the correct answer.
π π
(By definition of principal value for y = sin–1 x, – ≤ y ≤ )
2 2
14. tan–1 3 – sec–1 (– 2) is equal to
π π 2π
(A) π (B) – (C) (D) .
3 3 3
Sol. tan–1 3 – sec–1 (– 2)
= tan–1 3 – (π – sec–1 2) (... sec–1 (–x) = π – sec–1 x)
π π
= tan–1 tan – π + sec–1 sec
3 3
π π π – 3π + π π
– π +
= = =–
3 3 3 3
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.

MathonGo 5
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Exercise 2.2
Prove the following:
 1 1
1. 3 sin–1 x = sin–1 (3x – 4x3), x ∈  – ,  .
 2 2
Sol. To prove: 3 sin–1 x = sin–1 (3x – 4x3)
We know that sin 3θ = 3 sin θ – 4 sin3 θ
Put sin θ = x (⇒ θ = sin–1 x)
∴ sin 3θ = 3x – 4x3 ⇒ 3θ = sin–1 (3x – 4x3)
Putting θ = sin–1 x, 3 sin–1 x = sin–1 (3x – 4x3).
1 
2. 3 cos–1 x = cos–1 (4x3 – 3x), x ∈  , 1 .
2 

MathonGo 6
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

1 
Sol. To prove: 3 cos–1 x = cos–1 (4x3 – 3x), x ∈  , 1
2 
Let cos– 1 x = θ, then x = cos θ
We know that cos 3θ = 4 cos3 θ – 3 cos θ = 4x3 – 3x
⇒ 3θ = cos– 1 (4x3 – 3x) ⇒ 3 cos– 1 x = cos– 1 (4x3 – 3x).
2 7 1
3. tan–1 + tan–1 = tan–1 .
11 24 2
2 7 1
Sol. To prove: tan–1 + tan–1 = tan–1
11 24 2
2 7
+
–1
2 –1
7 –1 11 24
L.H.S. = tan + tan = tan 2 7
11 24 1− ×
11 24
 −1 −1 −1 x + y 
∵ tan x + tan y = tan 1 − xy 
 
48 + 77 125 1
= tan– 1 –1
= tan– 1
264 − 14 = tan 250 2
= R.H.S.

1 1 31
4. 2 tan–1 + tan–1 = tan–1 .
2 7 17
1 1 31
Sol. To prove: 2 tan–1 + tan–1 = tan–1
2 7 17
1 1
L.H.S. = 2 tan– 1 + tan– 1
2 7
1
2×  
= tan– 1 2 + tan– 1 1 ∵ 2 tan − 1 x = tan − 1 2 x 
 1
2 7  1 − x 2

1− 
 2
4 1
+
4 1 3 7
= tan– 1 + tan– 1 = tan– 1
3 7 4 1
1− ×
3 7
 −1 −1 −1 x + y 
∵ tan x + tan y = tan 1 − xy 
 
28 + 3 31
= tan– 1 = tan– 1 = R.H.S.
21 − 4 17
Write the following functions in the simplest form:
1 + x2 – 1
5. tan–1 , x ≠ 0.
x
Sol. Put x = tan θ so that θ = tan– 1 x
 1 + x2 − 1   1 + tan2 θ − 1
∴ tan– 1   = tan– 1  
 x   tan θ 

MathonGo 7
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 1 
−1
 sec θ − 1  cos θ 
= tan– 1  tan θ  = tan
–1
 sin θ 
 
 cos θ 

 θ 
2 sin2
–1  1 − cos θ  –1  2 
= tan  sin θ  = tan  θ θ
 2 sin cos 
2 2
 θ θ 1 1
= tan– 1  tan  = = θ= tan– 1 x.
 2 2 2 2
1
6. tan–1 2
, | x | > 1.
x –1
1
Sol. To simplify tan–1 , put x = sec θ (See Note (iii) below)
x2 − 1
(⇒ θ = sec–1 x)

1  1 
= tan–1 = tan–1  
sec 2 θ − 1  tan2 θ 

| ... sec2 θ – tan2 θ = 1 ⇒ sec2 θ – 1 = tan2 θ

 1 
= tan–1  = tan–1 (cot θ)
 tan θ 
π  π π
= tan–1 tan  − θ = – θ= – sec–1 x.
2  2 2

Very useful Note: (i) For a2 − x2 , put x = a sin θ

(ii) For a2 + x2 , put x = a tan θ

and (iii) For x2 − a2 , put x = a sec θ.

1 – cos x
7. tan–1 , x < π.
1 + cos x
x
2 sin 2
–1 1 − cos x 2
Sol. tan = tan–1
1 + cos x 2 cos2
x
2
[... 1 – cos 2θ = 2 sin2 θ and 1 + cos 2θ = 2 cos2 θ]
x x x
= tan–1 tan 2 = tan–1 tan = .
2 2 2
 cos x – sin x 
8. tan–1  , 0 < x < π.
 cos x + sin x 

MathonGo 8
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 cos x − sin x 
Sol. The given expression = tan– 1 
 cos x + sin x 
Dividing the numerator and denominator by cos x,
 π 
 1 − tan x  tan − tan x π 
–1  4 
 = tan tan  4 − x
–1 –1
= tan  1 + tan x  = tan  π
 1 + tan tan x 
4
π
= – x.
4
x
9. tan–1 , | x | < a.
a – x2
2

x
Sol. To simplify tan–1 , put x = a sin θ;
a − x2 2

(See note (i) below solution of Q. No. 7)

 a sin θ   a sin θ 
= tan–1   = tan–1  
 a2 − a2 sin2 θ   a2 (1 − sin2 θ) 

 a sin θ   a sin θ  x
= tan–1   = tan–1  = tan–1 (tan θ) = θ = sin–1
 a2 cos2 θ   a cos θ  a

 x −1 x 
∵ x = a sin θ ⇒ sin θ = a ⇒ θ = sin a 
 
 3a 2 x – x 3   a a
10. tan–1  3  , a > 0,  – ≤ x≤ .
 a – 3ax 2   3 3

 3a2 x − x3 
Sol. tan– 1  3 2
 a − 3ax 
(Dividing the numerator and denominator by a3, to make the first
term in denominator as 1)
  x  x 3 
 3   −   
= tan– 1  a a 
  x 
2
 1 − 3  
  a 
x
Put = tan θ.
a
 3 tan θ − tan 3 θ 
∴ The given expression = tan– 1  
 1 − 3 tan 2 θ 
x
= tan– 1 (tan 3θ) = 3θ = 3 tan– 1 .
a

MathonGo 9
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Find the values of each of the following:

  1 
11. tan–1  2 cos  2 sin–1   .
  2 
  −1 1     −1 π 
Sol. tan–1 2 cos  2 sin = tan–1 2 cos  2 sin sin  
  2    6 
  π   π
= tan–1 2 cos  2 .   = tan–1 2 cos 
  6    3
 1  π π
= tan–1  2 ×  = tan–1 1 = tan–1  tan  = .
 2  4 4
–1 –1
12. cot (tan a + cot a)
Sol. cot (tan–1 a + cot–1 a)
π  −1 −1 π
= cot = 0. ∵ tan x + cot x = 2 
2  
1  –1 2x 1 – y2 
13. tan  sin 2
+ cos –1  , | x | < 1, y > 0 and xy < 1.
2  1+ x 1 + y2 
Sol. Put x = tan θ and y = tan φ, then the given expression
1 −1 2x 1 1 − y2 
= tan  sin + cos −1 
2 1+ x 2
2 1 + y2 
1 −1 2 tan θ 1 2 
−1 1 − tan φ
= tan  sin + cos 
2 1 + tan 2 θ 2 1 + tan 2 φ 
1 −1 1 −1 
= tan  sin (sin 2θ) + cos (cos 2φ)
2 2 
 1 1  tan θ + tan φ x+ y
= tan  (2θ) + (2φ) = tan (θ + φ) = = .
2 2  1 − tan θ tan φ 1 − xy
 1 
14. If sin  sin –1 + cos –1 x  = 1, then find the value of x.
 5 
 1  π
Sol. Given : sin  sin –1 + cos –1 x = 1 = sin
 5  2
1 π
⇒ sin–1 + cos–1 x =
5 2
π 1 1 ∵ sin −1 t + cos −1 t = π 
⇒ cos–1 x = – sin–1 = cos–1  
2 5 5  2
1
⇒ x = .
5
x –1 x +1 π
15. If tan–1 + tan–1 = , then find the value of x.
x–2 x+2 4
x−1 x+1 π
Sol. Given: tan–1 + tan–1 =
x−2 x+2 4

MathonGo 10
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

x −1 x +1
+
x−2 x+2 π  −1 −1 −1 x + y 
⇒tan = ∵ tan x + tan y = tan
1 − xy 
–1
 x − 1  x + 1 4 
1−   
 x − 2  x + 2
Multiplying by L.C.M. = (x – 2)(x + 2),
( x − 1)( x + 2) + ( x + 1)( x − 2) π
⇒ = tan
( x − 2)( x + 2) − ( x − 1)( x + 1) 4
x2 + 2x − x − 2 + x2 − 2x + x − 2
⇒ = 1
x2 − 4 − ( x2 − 1)
2 x2 − 4 2 x2 − 4
⇒ = 1 ⇒ = 1
x − 4 − x2 + 1
2
−3
⇒ 2x2 – 4 = – 3 ⇒ 2x2 = 4 – 3 = 1
1 1 1
⇒ x2 = ∴ x=± =± .
2 2 2
Find the values of each of the expressions in Exercises 16
to 18.
 2π 
16. sin–1  sin .
 3
 2π  2π
Sol. We know that sin–1 (sin x) = x. Therefore, sin–1  sin  = 3 .
 3
2π  π π –1
But ∉  − ,  which is the principal value branch of sin .
3  2 2 
 2π  –1  3π − π    π 
Now, sin–1  sin  = sin sin  π − 3  
–1
  = sin  sin
3 3   
 π  π π  π π   2 π  π
= sin–1  sin  = and ∈  − ,  ∴ sin–1  sin  = .
 3 3 3  2 2   3 3
 3π 
17. tan–1  tan .
 4
 3π  3π
Sol. We know that tan–1 (tan x) = x. Therefore, tan–1  tan  = .
 4 4
3π  π π –1
But ∉  − ,  which is the principal value branch of tan .
4  2 2
 3π  –1  4π − π  –1   π 
Now, tan–1  tan
 4
 = tan  tan
  = tan  tan  π −  
4  4 
–1  π  π
= tan  − tan  = – tan tan
–1

 4 4
π π  π π  3π  π
= – and – ∈ − ,  ∴ tan–1  tan  = – .
4 4  2 2  4 4

MathonGo 11
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 –1 3 3
18. tan  sin + cot –1  .
 5 2
3 3
Sol. Let sin–1 = x and cot–1 = y
5 5
3 3
⇒ x and y both lie in first quadrant because > 0 and also >0
5 2
and hence cos x must be positive.
3 3
and sin x = and cot y =
5 2
9 16 4
⇒ cos x = 1 − sin 2 x = 1− = =
25 25 5
sin x 3 2
⇒ tan x = = and tan y =
cos x 4 3
 3 3
∴ tan  sin −1 + cot −1  = tan (x + y)
 5 2
3 2 17
tan x + tan y +
= = 4 3 = 12 = 17 .
1 − tan x tan y 3 2 1 6
1− ×
4 3 2
 7π 
19. cos–1  cos  is equal to
 6
7π 5π π π
(A) (B) (C) (D) .
6 6 3 6
7π  180° 
Sol. We know that (x =) cos = cos  7 ×  = cos 210° is
6  6 
negative. . .
( . 210° lies in third quadrant)
 7π  π
∴ Value of cos–1  cos  must lie between and π.
6 2
 7π    7π   . .
∴ cos–1  cos  = cos–1  cos  2π − | . cos (2π – θ) = cos θ
 6   6  
7π 12π − 7π 5π
= 2π – = =
6 6 6
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.
π –1  1  
20. sin  – sin  –   is equal to
3  2 
1 1 1
(A) (B) (C) (D) 1.
2 3 4
π −1  1  π −1 1  ... sin–1 (–x) = – sin–1 x
Sol. sin  − sin  −   = sin  + sin 
3 2  3 2 
π –1  π 
= sin  + sin  sin  
 3  6 
MathonGo 12
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 π π  2π + π  3π π
= sin  +  = sin   = sin 6 = sin = 1.
 3 6 6  2
∴ Option (D) is the correct answer.
21. tan–1 3 – cot–1 (– 3 ) is equal to
π
(A) π (B) – (C) 0 (D) 2 3 .
2
Sol. tan–1 3 – cot–1 (– 3 )

tan–1 3 – (π – cot–1 3 ) ... cot–1 (–x) = π – cot–1 x

π  –1  π 
tan–1 tan –  π – cot  cot  
3   6 
π  π π 5π 2π − 5π
= – π −  = – =
3  6 3 6 6
3π π
= – = – . ∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.
6 2

MathonGo 13
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISE
Find the value of the following:
 13π 
1. cos–1  cos .
 6 
13π 12π + π  π
Sol. Here (x) = cos = cos = cos  2π + 
6 6  6
π 3
= cos = > 0.
6 2
 13π 
∴ Value of cos–1  cos  lies in first quadrant.
 6 
 13π  3 π π
∴ cos–1  cos  = cos
–1
= cos–1 cos = .
 6  2 6 6
 7π 
2. tan–1  tan .
 6
7π 6π + π  π π 1
Sol. Here (x) = tan = tan = tan  π +  = tan = > 0
6 6  6 6 3
 7π 
∴ Value of tan–1  tan  lies in first quadrant.
 6
 7π  –1 1 π π
∴ tan–1  tan  = tan = tan–1 tan = .
 6 3 6 6
3 24
3. Prove that 2 sin–1 = tan–1 .
5 7
3
Sol. Let sin–1 = θ
5
MathonGo 14
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 3  3
⇒ θ lies in first quadrant ∵ > 0 and sin θ = .
 5  5
9 16 4
∴ cos θ is positive and = 1 − sin 2 θ = 1 − = =
25 25 5
3
sin θ 3
∴ tan θ = = 5 =
cos θ 4 4
5
3
2×
2 tan θ 4
We know that θ=
tan 2θ =
1 − tan 2 θ 9
1−
16
3
3 16 24 24
or tan 2θ = 2 = × = or 2θ = tan–1
7 2 7 7 7
16
3 3 24
Putting θ = sin–1 , 2 sin–1 = tan–1 .
5 5 7
8 3 77
4. Prove that sin–1 + sin–1 = tan–1 .
17 5 36
8  8 
Sol. Let sin–1 = α ⇒ α is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
17 17 
8
and sin α =
17
64
∴ cos α is positive and = 1 − sin 2 α = 1−
289
289 − 64 225 15
= = =
289 289 17
8
sin α 17 8
∴ tan α = = =
cos α 15 15
17
3  3 
Again let sin–1 = β ⇒ β is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
5  5 
3
and sin β =
5
9 16 4
∴ cos β is also positive and = 1 − sin 2 β = 1 − = =
25 25 5
3
sin β 3
∴ tan β = = 5 =
cos β 4 4
5
MathonGo 15
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

tan α + tan β
α + β) =
We know that tan (α
1 − tan α tan β
8 3
+
Putting values of tan α and tan β, = 15 4
8 3
1− .
15 4
32 + 45 77
Multiplying by L.C.M. = 60, = =
60 − 24 36
77
i.e., tan (α + β) =
36
77
∴ α + β = tan–1
36
8 3 77
Putting values of α and β, sin–1 + sin–1 = tan–1 .
17 5 36
4 12 33
5. Prove that cos–1 + cos–1 = cos–1 .
5 13 65
4  4 
Sol. Let cos–1 = α ⇒ α is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
5  5 
4
and cos α =
5
∴ sin α is also positive and = 1 − cos2 α
16 9 3
= 1− = =
25 25 5
12
Again let cos–1 = β
13
 12 
⇒ β is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
13 
12
and cos β = .
13
∴ sin β is also positive and = 1 − cos2 β

 12
2
144 169 − 144 25 5
= 1−  = =1− = =
 13 169 169 169 13
α + β) = cos α cos β – sin
We know that cos (α α sin β
4  12  3  5
Putting values, =   –  
5  13  5 13
48 15 33
or cos (α + β) = – =
65 65 65
33
∴ α + β = cos–1
65

MathonGo 16
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

4 12 33
Putting values of α and β, cos–1 + cos–1 = cos–1 .
5 13 65
12 3 56
6. Prove that cos–1 + sin–1 = sin–1 .
13 5 65
12  12 
Sol. Let cos–1 = α ⇒ α is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
13 13 
12
and cos α = .
13
144
∴ sin α is also positive and = 1 − cos2 α = 1−
169
169 − 144 25 5
= = =
169 169 13
3  3 
Let sin–1 = β ⇒ β is in first quadrant. ∵ > 0
5 5
3
and sin β = .
5
9
∴ cos β is also positive and = 1 − sin 2 β = 1−
25
25 − 9 16 4
= = =
25 25 5
We know that sin (αα + β) = sin α cos β + cos α sin β.
5  4 12  3  20 36 56
Putting values, sin (α + β) =   +  = + =
13  5  13  5  65 65 65
56
∴ α + β = sin–1
65
12 3 56
Putting values of α and β, cos–1 + sin–1 = sin–1 .
13 5 65
63 5 3
7. Prove that tan–1 = sin–1 + cos–1 .
16 13 5

5 3
Sol. Let sin–1 = x and cos–1 = y
13 5
5 3
⇒ x and y both lie in first quadrant because > 0 and > 0
13 5
and hence cos x and sin y are both positive
5 3
and sin x = and cos y =
13 5
2
 5 144 12
⇒ cos x = 1 − sin 2 x = 1−  = =
 13 169 13
2
 3 16 4
and sin y = 1 − cos y =
2 1−  = =
 5 25 5
MathonGo 17
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

5
sin x 13 5
⇒ tan x = = =
cos x 12 12
13
4
sin y 4
and tan y = = 5 =
cos y 3 3
5
5 4
tan x + tan y +
Now, tan (x + y) = = 12 3
1 − tan x tan y 5 4
1− ×
12 3
21
7 9 63
= 12 = × =
4 4 4 16
9
63
⇒ tan–1 = x+ y
16
63 5 3
Putting values of x and y, tan–1 = sin–1 + cos–1 .
16 13 5
1 1 1 1 π
8. Prove that tan–1 + tan–1 + tan–1 + tan–1 = .
5 7 3 8 4
 1 1  1 1
Sol. L.H.S. =  tan −1 + tan −1  +  tan −1 + tan −1 
 5 7  3 8
 1 1   1 1 
+ +
–1  5 7   3 8 
+ tan–1  1 1
= tan  1 1
1 − .  1 − . 
 5 7  3 8
 .. –1 –1 –1
x+ y
 . tan x + tan y = tan 1 − xy
if x > 0, y > 0, and xy < 1.

1 1 1
Here for first sum, xy = × = < 1 and for second sum
5 7 35
1
< 1. 
1 1
xy = × =
3 8 24 
 7+5   8+3 
 35   24  12 11
= tan–1  35 − 1  + tan
–1
 24 − 1  = tan–1 + tan–1
  34 23
   24 
 35 
6 11
= tan–1 + tan–1
17 23

MathonGo 18
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 6 11 
+  
 17 23  6 11 66
∵ xy = 17 × 23 = 391 < 1
–1
= tan  6 11   
1 − . 
 17 23 
Multiplying NUM and DEN by 17 × 23
 138 + 187  325 
= tan–1  = tan–1 

 391 − 66   325 

π π
= tan–1 1 = tan–1 tan = = R.H.S.
4 4
1  1 – x
9. Prove that tan–1 cos–1  , x ∈ [0, 1].
 1 + x 
x =
2

Sol. Let tan–1 x = θ, then x = tan θ ∴ x = tan2 θ

1 1− x 1 1 − tan2 θ
∴ R.H.S. = cos–1 = cos–1
2 1+ x 2 1 + tan2 θ
1 1
= cos–1 (cos 2θ) = (2θ) = θ = tan–1 x .
2 2
L.H.S.
 1 + sin x + 1 – sin x 
10. Prove that cot–1  
 1 + sin x – 1 – sin x 
x  π
= , x ∈  0,  .
2  4
Sol. We know that
2
x x x x  x x
1 + sin x = cos2 + sin2 + 2 cos sin =  cos + sin 
2 2 2 2  2 2
2
 x x
Similarly, 1 – sin x =  cos − sin 
 2 2
 1 + sin x + 1 − sin x
∴ cot– 1  
 1 + sin x − 1 − sin x

 x x  x x 
  cos + sin  +  cos − sin  
2 2   2 2 
= cot– 1 
 x x  x x 
  cos + sin  −  cos − sin  
 2 2  2 2 
 x
2 cos
 2  = cot– 1  cot x  = x .
= cot– 1   
x 2 2
 2 sin 
 2 

MathonGo 19
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 1+ x – 1 – x π 1
11. Prove that tan–1   = – cos–1 x,
 1+ x + 1 – x 4 2
–1
≤ x ≤ 1.
2
 1+ x − 1− x
Sol. L.H.S. = tan–1  
 1+ x + 1− x
1
θ (⇒ 2θ = cos–1 x ⇒ θ =
Put x = cos 2θ cos–1 x)
2
 1 + cos 2θ − 1 − cos 2θ 
∴ L.H.S. = tan–1  
 1 + cos 2θ + 1 − cos 2θ 
 2 cos2 θ − 2 sin 2 θ
= tan–1  
 2 cos2 θ + 2 sin 2 θ 
 2 cos θ − 2 sin θ 
= tan–1  
 2 cos θ + 2 sin θ 
Dividing every term in NUM and DEN by 2 cos θ,
 π 
 1 − tan θ  tan − tan θ
–1 –1  4 
= tan 
 1 + tan θ 
= tan  
π
 1 + tan tan θ 
 4 
π  π
= tan tan  − θ =
–1
– θ
4  4
π 1
= – cos–1 x = R.H.S.
4 2
9π 9 1 9 2 2
12. Prove that – sin–1 = sin–1 .
8 4 3 4 3
9π 9 1
Sol. L.H.S. = – sin–1
8 4 3
9 π −1 1 
= − sin
4  2 3


1 ∵ sin −1 x + cos −1 x = π π 
9
= cos–1  ⇒ − sin −1 x = cos −1 x
4 3  2 2 
9 1
⇒ L.H.S. = θ ...(i) where θ = cos–1
4 3
 1  1
∴ θ is in first quadrant ∵ > 0 and cos θ =
 3  3
1 8 4×2 2
∴ sin θ = 1 − cos2 θ = 1− = = = 2
9 9 9 3
 2 2
∴ θ = sin–1  
 3 
MathonGo 20
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

9  2 2
Putting this value of θ in (i), L.H.S. = sin–1  
4  3 
= R.H.S.
13. Solve the equation 2 tan–1 (cos x) = tan–1 (2 cosec x).
Sol. The given equation is
2 tan– 1 (cos x) = tan– 1 (2 cosec x)
 2 cos x   2x 
–1  2 
−1 −1
⇒ tan–1   = tan  sin x  ∵ 2 tan x = tan 
 1 − cos2 x   1 − x2 
2 cos x 2
⇒ =
sin 2 x sin x
2 cos x
Dividing both sides by , we have = 1
sin x sin x
π
∴ cot x = 1 = cot
4
π
∴ x= .
4
 1 – x 1
14. Solve the equation tan–1  = tan–1 x, (x > 0).
 1 + x  2
Sol. Put x = tan θ
 1 − tan θ  1
∴The given equation becomes tan–1  = tan–1 (tan θ)
 1 + tan θ  2
 π 
 tan 4 − tan θ  1
⇒ tan–1   = θ
π
1 + tan tan θ  2
 4 

π θ
⇒ tan–1 tan  − θ =
4  2
π θ θ π
⇒ – θ = ⇒ θ + =
4 2 2 4
3θ π 2π π
⇒ = ⇒ 12θ = 2π ⇒ θ = =
2 4 12 6
π 1
∴ x = tan θ = tan = .
6 3
15. sin (tan–1 x), | x | < 1 is equal to
x 1 1 x
(A) (B) 2
(C) (D) .
1– x 2
1– x 1+ x 1 + x2 2

Sol. sin (tan x) = sin θ where θ = tan x (⇒ x = tan θ)

–1 –1

1 1
= =
cosec θ 1 + cot 2 θ
. .
[ . cosec θ – cot θ = 1 ⇒ cosec2 θ = 1 + cot2 θ]
2 2

MathonGo 21
 Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

1 1
Putting cot θ = = ,
tan θ x
1 1 x
sin (tan–1 x) = = =
1+ 2
1 x +1
2
x +1
2

x x2
∴ Option (D) is the correct answer.
π
16. sin–1 (1 – x) – 2 sin–1 x = , then x is equal to
2
1 1 1
(A) 0, (B) 1, (C) 0 (D) .
2 2 2
π
Sol. The given equation is sin– 1 (1 – x) – 2 sin– 1 x = ...(i)
2
Put sin– 1 x = θ ∴ x = sin θ ...(ii)
π
∴ Equation (i) becomes sin– 1 (1 – x) – 2θ =
2
π
⇒ sin– 1 (1 – x) = + 2θ
2
π
⇒ 1 – x = sin  + 2θ = cos 2θ = 1 – 2 sin2 θ
2 
Putting sin θ = x from (ii), 1 – x = 1 – 2x2
or – x = – 2x2 or 2x2 – x = 0 or x(2x – 1) = 0
∴ Either x = 0 or 2x – 1 = 0 i.e., 2x = 1
1
i.e., x= .
2
Let us test these roots
π
Putting x = 0 in (i), sin– 1 1 – 2 sin– 1 0 =
2
π π π π
or – 0 = or = which is true.
2 2 2 2
∴ x = 0 is a root.
1 1 1 π
Putting x = in (i), sin– 1 – 2 sin– 1 =
2 2 2 2
1 π
or – sin– 1 = [... t – 2t = – t]
2 2
π π –1 1 –1 π π 
or – = ∵ sin 2 = sin sin 6 = 6  which is
6 2 
impossible.
1
∴ x = is rejected.
2
∴ Option (C) is the correct answer.

MathonGo 22
Class 12 Chapter 2 - Inverse Trigonometric Functions

 x x – y
17. tan–1   – tan–1   is equal to
 y x + y
π π π 3π
(A) (B) (C) (D) – .
2 3 4 4
x  x − y
Sol. tan–1 – tan–1 
y  x + y 
 x  x − y 
 − 
–1  y  x + y    A −B
= tan ∵ tan−1 A − tan−1 B = tan−1
 x  x − y   1 + AB
1 +  
 y  x + y  
Multiplying both numerator and denominator by y(x + y)

 x( x + y) − y( x − y)   x2 + xy − xy + y2 
= tan–1   = tan–1
 
 y( x + y) + x( x − y)   xy + y2 + x2 − xy 

 x 2 + y2  π π
= tan–1  2 –1 –1
 = tan 1 = tan tan =
 x + y2  4 4
∴ Option (C) is the correct answer.

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Exercise 3.1
 2 5 19 – 7
 
1. In the matrix A =  35 –2 5/2 12 , write
 3 1 –5 17 

(i) The order of the matrix (ii) The number of elements
(iii) Write the elements a13, a21, a33, a24, a23.
Sol. (i) There are 3 horizontal lines (rows) and 4 vertical lines
(columns) in the given matrix A.
∴ Order of the matrix A is 3 × 4.
(ii) The number of elements in this matrix A is 3 × 4 = 12.
(... The number of elements in a m × n matrix is m . n)
(iii) a13 ⇒ Element in first row and third column = 19
a21 ⇒ Element in second row and first column = 35
a33 ⇒ Element in third row and third column = – 5
a24 ⇒ Element in second row and fourth column = 12
5
a23 ⇒ Element in second row and third column = .
2
2. If a matrix has 24 elements, what are the possible orders it
can have? What, if it has 13 elements?
Sol. We know that a matrix having mn elements is of order m × n.
(i) Now 24 = 1 × 24, 2 × 12, 3 × 8, 4 × 6 and hence
= 24 × 1, 12 × 2, 8 × 3, 6 × 4 also.
∴ There are 8 possible matrices having 24 elements of orders
1 × 24, 2 × 12, 3 × 8, 4 × 6, 24 × 1, 12 × 2, 8 × 3, 6 × 4.
(ii) Again (prime number) 13 = 1 × 13 and 13 × 1 only.
∴ There are 2 possible matrices of order 1 × 13 (Row matrix)
and 13 × 1 (Column matrix)
3. If a matrix has 18 elements, what are the possible orders it
can have? What if has 5 elements?
Sol. We know that a matrix having mn elements is of order m × n.
(i) Now 18 = 1 × 18, 2 × 9, 3 × 6 and hence 18 × 1, 9 × 2,
6 × 3 also.

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

∴ There are 6 possible matrices having 18 elements of

orders 1 × 18, 2 × 9, 3 × 6, 18 × 1, 9 × 2 and 6 × 3.
(ii) Again (Prime number) 5 = 1 × 5 and 5 × 1 only.
∴ There are 2 possible matrices of order 1 × 5 and 5 × 1.
4. Construct a 2 × 2 matrix A = [aij] whose elements are given
by:
(i + j)2 i (i + 2 j)2
(i) aij = (ii) aij = (iii) aij =
2 j 2
Sol. To construct a 2 × 2 matrix A = [aij]
(i + j)2
(i) Given: aij = ...(i)
2
In (i),
(1 + 1)2 22 4
Put i = 1, j = 1, ∴ a11 = = = =2
2 2 2
(1 + 2)2 32 9
Put i = 1, j = 2, ∴ a12 = = =
2 2 2
(2 + 1)2 9
Put i = 2, j = 1; ∴ a21 = =
2 2
(2 + 2) 2
42 16
Put i = 2, j = 2; ∴ a22 = = = =8
2 2 2
 9
 a11 a12  2 2 .
∴ A2 × 2 = [aij] =   =  
 a21 a22  9
 2 8 

i
(ii) Given: aij = ...(i)
j
In (i),
1
Put i = 1, j = 1, ∴ a11 = = 1
1
1
Put i = 1, j = 2, ∴ a12 =
2
2
Put i = 2, j = 1; ∴ a21 = = 2
1
2
Put i = 2, j = 2; ∴ a22 = = 1
2
 1
 a11 a12  2
∴ A2 × 2 = [aij] = a  =  2 .
 21 a22   
2 1 
(i + 2 j)2
(iii) Given: aij = ...(i)
2
In (i),

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

(1 + 2)2 32 9
Put i = 1, j = 1; ∴ a11 = = =
2 2 2
(1 + 4) 2
52
25
Put i = 1, j = 2; ∴ a12 = = =
2 2 2
(2 + 2)2 16
Put i = 2, j = 1; ∴ a21 = = = 8
2 2
(2 + 4)2 62 36
Put i = 2, j = 2; ∴ a22 = = = = 18
2 2 2
 a11 25  a12  9
∴ A2 × 2 = [aij] =  2 .  = 2
 a21  a22  
 8 18 
5. Construct a 3 × 4 matrix, whose elements are given by:
1
(i) aij = | – 3i + j | (ii) aij = 2i – j.
2
Sol. (i) To construct a 3 × 4 matrix say A.
1
Given: aij = | – 3i + j | ...(i)
2
In (i),
Put i = 1, j = 1,
1 1 1
∴ a11 = | – 3 + 1 | = | – 2 | = (2) = 1
2 2 2
Put i = 1, j = 2,
1 1 1 1
∴ a12 = | – 3 + 2 | = | – 1 | = (1) =
2 2 2 2
i = 1, j = 3,
1 1 1
∴ a13 = | – 3 + 3 | = | 0 | = (0) = 0
2 2 2
i = 1, j = 4,
1 1 1 1
∴ a14 = | – 3 + 4 | = | 1 | = (1) =
2 2 2 2
i = 2, j = 1,
1 1 5
∴ a21 = | – 6 + 1 | = | – 5 | =
2 2 2
i = 2, j = 2,
1 1 4
∴ a22 = | – 6 + 2 | = | – 4 | = = 2
2 2 2
i = 2, j = 3,
1 1 3
∴ a23 = | – 6 + 3 | = | – 3 | =
2 2 2
i = 2, j = 4,
1 1 2
∴ a24 = | – 6 + 4 | = | – 2 | = = 1
2 2 2

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

i = 3, j = 1,
1 1 8
∴ a31 = | – 9 + 1 | = | – 8 | = = 4
2 2 2
i = 3, j = 2,
1 1 7
∴ a32 = | – 9 + 2 | = | – 7 | =
2 2 2
i = 3, j = 3,
1 1 6
∴ a33 = | – 9 + 3 | = | – 6 | = = 3
2 2 2
i = 3, j = 4,
1 1 5
∴ a34 = | – 9 + 4 | = | – 5 | =
2 2 2
 1 1
1 2 0
2
 a11 a12 a13 a14   
  5 2 3
1  .
∴ A3 × 4 =  a21 a22 a23 a24  = 
2 2
 a31 a32 a33 a34   
4 7 3
5
 2 2 
(ii) Given: aij = 2i – j
∴ a11 = 2 – 1 = 1, a12 = 2 – 2 = 0
a13 = 2 – 3 = – 1, a14 = 2 – 4 = – 2
a21 = 4 – 1 = 3, a22 = 4 – 2 = 2
a23 = 4 – 3 = 1, a24 = 4 – 4 = 0
a31 = 6 – 1 = 5, a32 = 6 – 2 = 4
a33 = 6 – 3 = 3, a34 = 6 – 4 = 2
 a11 a12 a13 a14  1 0 − 1 − 2
 a22 a23 a24  = 3 2 0 .
∴ A3 × 4 =  a21 1
 a31 a32 a33 a34  5 4 3 2
6. Find the values of x, y and z from the following equations:
 4 3  y z x + y 2 6 2
(i)   =   (ii)   =  
 x 5  1 5 5 + z xy  5 8
 x + y + z 9
 
(iii)  x + z  =  5 
 y + z  7 

4 3  y z
Sol. (i) Given:   =  
 x 5  1 5
By definition of Equal matrices, equating corresponding
entries, we have 4 = y, 3 = z, x = 1, 5 = 5
∴ x = 1, y = 4, z = 3.
x + y 2  6 2
(ii) Given:   = 5 8
 5 + z xy  
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Equating corresponding entries, we have

x + y = 6 ...(i)
5 + z = 5 i.e., z = 5 – 5 = 0
and xy = 8 ...(ii)
Let us solve (i) and (ii) for x and y.
From (i), y = 6 – x
Putting this value of y in (ii), we have
x(6 – x) = 8 or 6x – x2 = 8
2
or – x + 6x – 8 = 0 or x2 – 6x + 8 = 0
2
or x – 4x – 2x + 8 = 0 or x(x – 4) – 2(x – 4) = 0
or (x – 4)(x – 2) = 0
∴ Either x – 4 = 0 or x – 2 = 0
i.e., x = 4 or x = 2.
When x = 4, then y = 6 – x = 6 – 4 = 2
∴ x = 4, y = 2, z = 0.
When x = 2, then y = 6 – x = 6 – 2 = 4
∴ x = 2, y = 4, z = 0.
 x + y + z 9
   
(iii) Given:  x + z  = 5
 y + z  7 
Equating corresponding entries, we have
x + y + z = 9 ...(i)
x + z = 5 ...(ii)
y + z = 7 ...(iii)
Eqn. (i) – eqn. (ii) gives y = 9 – 5 = 4
Eqn. (i) – eqn. (iii) gives x = 9 – 7 = 2
Putting x = 2 and y = 4 in (i), 2 + 4 + z = 9
or 6 + z = 9
∴ z = 3
Hence x = 2, y = 4, z = 3.
7. Find the values of a, b, c and d from the equation
a–b 2a + c – 1 5
 2a – b 3c + d =  0 13 .
   
Sol. Equating corresponding entries of given equal matrices, we have
a – b = – 1 ...(i)
2a – b = 0 ...(ii)
2a + c = 5 ...(iii)
and 3c + d = 13 ...(iv)
Eqn. (i) – eqn. (ii) gives – a = – 1 or a = 1
Putting a = 1 in (i), 1 – b = – 1 or – b = – 2 or b = 2
Putting a = 1 in (iii), 2 + c = 5 ⇒ c = 5 – 2 = 3
Putting c = 3 in (iv), 9 + d = 13 or d = 13 – 9 = 4
∴ a = 1, b = 2, c = 3, d = 4.

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

8. A = [aij]m × n is a square matrix, if

(A) m < n (B) m > n (C) m = n (D) None of these.
Sol. (C) is the correct option.
(... By definition of square matrix m = n)
9. Which of the given values of x and y make the following
pair of matrices equal
3 x + 7 5  0 y – 2
 y + 1 2 – 3 x  , 8 4 
  
–1
(A) x = , y = 7 (B) Not possible to find
3
–2 –1 –2
(C) y = 7, x = (D) x = , y = .
3 3 3
3 x + 7 5  0 y − 2
= matrix 
Sol. According to given, matrix  
 y + 1 2 − 3 x 8 4 
Equating corresponding entries, we have
7
3x + 7 = 0 ⇒ 3x = – 7 ⇒ x = – ...(i)
3
5 = y – 2 ⇒ 5 + 2 = y ⇒ y = 7
y + 1 = 8 ⇒ y = 8 – 1 = 7
2
and 2 – 3x = 4 ⇒ – 3x = 2 ⇒ x = –...(ii)
3
7 2
The two values of x = – given by (i) and x = – given by (ii)
3 3
are not equal.
∴ No values of x and y exist to make the two matrices equal.
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.
10. The number of all possible matrices of order 3 × 3 with
each entry 0 or 1 is:
(A) 27 (B) 18 (C) 81 (D) 512.
Sol. We know that general matrix of order 3 × 3 is
 a11 a12 a13 
 
 a21 a22 a23 
 a31 a32 a33 
This matrix has 3 × 3 = 9 elements.
The number of choices for a11 is 2 (as 0 or 1 can be used)
Similarly, the number of choices for each other element is 2.
Hence, total possible arrangements (matrices)
2 × 2 × ... × 2
= (By fundamental principle of counting)
9 times
= 29 = 512
∴ Option (D) is the correct answer.

MathonGo 6
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Exercise 3.2
2 4  1 3 – 2 5
1. Let A = 
2
,B= 
5
,C= 
4
.
3 – 2  3
Find each of the following:
(i) A + B (ii) A – B (iii) 3A – C
(iv) AB (v) BA.
2 4  1 3 2 + 1 4 + 3 3 7
+ 
Sol. (i) A+B = 
3

2 − 2 5 = 3 − 2 2 + 5 = 1 7
2 4  1 3 2 − 1 4 − 3 1 1
–   = 
(ii) A – B = 
3

2 − 2 5 3 + 2 2 − 5 = 5 − 3
2 4 3 × 2 3 × 4
(iii) 3A – C = 3 
2
– C = 
3 × 2
– C
3 3 × 3
6 12 − 2 5 6 + 2 12 − 5 8 7
– 
4 
=   = 
6 − 4 6
=
9 6  3 9 − 3 2
 2 4  1 3
(iv) AB =    − 2 5
3 2  
Performing row by column multiplication,
 2(1) + 4(− 2) 2(3) + 4(5)   2−8 6 + 20  − 6 26
=  = 3− 4  = − 1
 3(1) + 2(− 2) 3(3) + 2(5)   9 + 10   19
 1 3 2 4
BA = 
(v)
 − 2 5 3 2
Performing row by column multiplication,
 1(2) + 3(3) 1(4) + 3(2)   2 + 9 4 + 6  11 10
=  = =
(− 2)2 + 5(3)

(− 2)(4) + 5(2)  − 4 + 15 − 8 + 10 11 2
Note. From solutions of part (iv) and (v), we can easily
observe that AB need not be equal to BA i.e., matrix
multiplication need not be commutative.
2. Compute the following:
 a b a b
(i) – b a +  b a

 a 2 + b2 b2 + c 2   2ab 2bc
 2  + 
(ii)
 a + c
2 2 2
a + b   – 2ac – 2ab

– 1 4 – 6 12 7 6
 8   8 0 5
(iii)  5 16  + 
 2 8 5  3 2 4

MathonGo 7
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

cos 2 x sin 2 x   sin 2 x cos 2 x 

(iv)   +  .
2
 sin x cos 2 x  cos 2 x sin 2 x 
 a b  a b  a+ a b + b 2a 2b
Sol. (i) − b a  b
+  =   = 
2a
 a − b + b a + a  0
 a2 + b2 b2 + c2   2ab 2bc
(ii)  2  + 
 a + c2 a + b 
2 2
 − 2ac − 2ab

 a2 + b2 + 2ab b2 + c2 + 2bc (a + b)2 (b + c)2 

= 2  =  
 a + c2 − 2ac a2 + b2 − 2ab  (a − c)2 (a − b)2 
− 1 4 − 6 12 7 6
 16  5
(iii)  8 5 + 8 0
 2 8 5  3 2 4 
 − 1 + 12 4+7 − 6 + 6 11 11 0
 16 + 5 = 16
= 8 + 8 5+0
 5 21
 2 + 3 8+2 5 + 4   5 10 9
 cos2 x sin 2 x  sin 2 x cos2 x 
(iv)  2  + 2 
sin x cos2 x   cos x sin 2 x 
cos2 x + sin 2 x sin 2 x + cos2 x 1 1
=   = 
1
.
sin x + cos x cos x + sin
2 2 2 2
x  1
3. Compute the indicated products:
1 
 a b  a – b
(i)  (ii)  2  [2 3 4]
– b a  b a
 3 
2 3 4 1 –3 5
1 – 2 1 2 3 
(iii)  5  0 4
3  2 (iv)  3 4 2
2 3 1 
 4 5 6   3 0 5 

 2 1 2 – 3
 1 1  3 –1 3 
0 
0
(v)  3 2  (vi)  1
 – 1 2 1 – 1 0 2 
 3 1
 – 1 1
 a b  a – b
(i)    a
Sol. is defined because the pre-matrix has
 – b a  b
2 columns which is equal to the number of rows of the
post-matrix.
Performing row by column multiplication,
 a(a) + b(b) a(− b) + b(a)   a2 + b2 0 
= = 2
(− b) a + a(b) (− b)(− b) + a(a)  0 b + a 
2

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Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

1 
 
(ii) 2 [2 3 4]1 × 3 is defined because the pre-matrix has
3 3×1
one column which is equal to the number of rows of the
post-matrix.
Performing row by column multiplication,
1(2) 1(3) 1(4)  2 3 4
 8 
= 2(2) 2(3) 2(4) = 4 6
3(2) 3(3) 3(4)  6 9 12 3×3

1 − 2 1 2 3
(iii) 
2 3 2 3 1

1(1) + (− 2)2 1(2) + (− 2)3 1(3) + (− 2)1

= 
 2(1) + 3(2) 2(2) + 3(3) 2(3) + 3(1) 
(Row by column multiplication)
1 − 4 2−6 3 − 2 − 3 −4 1
= 
= 
2 + 6 4+9 
6 + 3  8 13 9
2 3 4 1 −3 5
3 4 
5 0  2 4 
(iv) 
 4 5 6   3 0 5 
Performing row by column multiplication
 2(1) + 3(0) + 4(3) 2(− 3) + 3(2) + 4(0) 2(5) + 3(4) + 4(5) 
 
=  3(1) + 4(0) + 5(3) 3(− 3) + 4(2) + 5(0) 3(5) + 4(4) + 5(5) 
 4(1) + 5(0) + 6(3) 4(− 3) + 5(2) + 6(0) 4(5) + 5(4) + 6(5) 
 2 + 0 + 12 −6+6+0 10 + 12 + 20   14 0 42 
=  3 + 0 + 15 −9+8+0 15 + 16 + 25 =

 18
 −1 56 

 4 + 0 + 18 − 12 + 10 + 0 20 + 20 + 30   22 −2 70 
 2 1
   1 0 1
(v)  3 2  is defined because the pre-matrix
– 1 2 1
 – 1 1 
has 2 columns which is equal to the number of rows of the
post-matrix.
Performing row by column multiplication,
 2(1) + 1(− 1) 2(0) + 1(2) 2(1) + 1(1) 
 3(1) + 2(− 1) 3(0) + 2(2) 3(1) + 2(1) 
= 
(− 1)1 + 1(− 1) (− 1)0 + 1(2) (− 1)1 + 1(1)
 2−1 0+2 2 + 1  1 2 3
   5 .
=  3−2 0+4 3 + 2 =  1 4
 − 1 − 1 0+2 − 1 + 1  − 2 2 0

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

−3
3  
2
 3 −1  6 − 1 + 9 − 9 − 0 + 3
(vi)  0  = 
2   3 + 0 + 2
1
 −1 0 − 2 + 0 + 6
 3 1 
(Row by column multiplication)
− 6
14
= 
5
.
 4
1 2 – 3 3 – 1 2 4 1 2

4. If A = 5 0 2 , B =  4
 2  
5 and C = 0 3 2 ,
1 – 1 1  2 0 3 1 – 2 3
then compute (A + B) and (B – C). Also, verify that
A + (B – C) = (A + B) – C.
1 2 − 3 3 −1 2  1 + 3 2−1 − 3 + 2
 2 + 5
Sol. A + B = 5 0 2 + 4
 2 5 = 5 + 4 0+2
1 −1 1  2 0 3 1 + 2 −1+0 1 + 3
4 1 − 1
⇒ A + B =  9 2 7 ...(i)
 3 −1 4 
3 −1 2 4 1 2
 5 –  0 2
Again B – C = 4 2 3
 2 0 3 1 −2 3
3 − 4 −1−1 2 − 2
 5 − 2
= 4 − 0 2−3
 2 − 1 0+2 3 − 3
 − 1 − 2 0
 − 1 3
⇒ B – C =  4 ...(ii)
 1 2 0
Putting the value of (B – C) from (ii) in L.H.S.
= A + (B – C)
1 2 − 3 − 1 −2 0
 2 +  4
 −1 3
= 5 0
1 −1 1  1 2 0
1 − 1 2 − 2 − 3 + 0 0 0 − 3
= 5 + 4 0−1 2 + 3 = 9 − 1 5 ...(iii)
 1 + 1 − 1 + 2 1 + 0  2 1 1
Putting the value of (A + B) from (i) in R.H.S. = (A + B) – C
4 1 − 1 4 1 2
= 9  – 0 3 2
 2 7 
 3 − 1 4  1 − 2 3

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

4 − 4 1−1 − 1 − 2 0 0 − 3
 5
=  9 − 0 2−3 7 − 2 = 9 −1 ...(iv)
 3 − 1 −1+ 2 4 − 3  2 1 1
From (iii) and (iv), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.

2 5 2 3 
3 1 1
3 5 5
   
1 2 4 1 2 4
5. If A =  and B =  , then compute 3A – 5B.
3 3 3 5 5 5
   
7 2
2  7 6 2
 3 3   5 5 5 

2 5 2 3 
1 5 5 1
3 3 
   
1 2 4
Sol. 3A – 5B = 3 
1 2 4
– 5
3 3 3 5 5 5
   
7 2 7 6 2
2
 3 3   5 5 5 
Multiplying each entry of first matrix by 3 and each entry of
second matrix by 5

2 3 5 2 3 5 2 − 2 3−3 5 − 5 0 0 0
 4 − 4  = 0 0
= 1 2 4  – 1 2
 4  =  1 − 1 2−2 0
7 6 2 7 6 2  7 − 7 6−6 2 − 2  0 0 0
Remark. Here answer is a zero matrix.
 cos θ sin θ   sin θ – cos θ
6. Simplify cos θ  + sin θ 
cos θ sin θ 
.
 – sin θ cos θ

 cos θ sin θ sin θ – cos θ

Sol. cos θ   + sin θ cos θ
 – sin θ cos θ  sin θ 
Multiplying each entry of first matrix by cos θ and each entry of
second matrix by sin θ
 cos2 θ cos θ sin θ   sin 2 θ − sin θ cos θ 
=   +  
 − sin θ cos θ cos θ  sin θ cos θ sin 2 θ 
2

 cos2 θ + sin 2 θ cos θ sin θ − sin θ cos θ  1 0

=  = 
 − sin θ cos θ + sin θ cos θ cos θ + sin θ
2 2
 0 1

1 0
Remark. The answer matrix  of this question is identity
0 1
(unit) matrix I2.

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

7. Find X and Y if
7 0 3 0
(i) X + Y = 
5
and X – Y = 
2 0 3
 2 3 2 – 2
(ii) 2X + 3Y =   and 3X + 2Y = – 1
 4 0  5
7 0
(i) Given: X + Y = 
5
Sol. ...(i)
2
3 0
X–Y= 
3
and ...(ii)
0
Adding eqns. (i) and (ii), we have
7 0 3 0 7 + 3 0 + 0 10 0
2X = 
5
+ 
3
= 
8
= 
2 0 2 + 0 5 + 3 2
 10 0
1 10 0 2 2 5 0
∴ =   = 
2  2  4 
X= .
8 2 8 1
 2 2 
Eqn. (i) – eqn. (ii) gives

7 0 3 0 7 − 3 0 − 0  4 0
= 
5 − 3   2 2 
2Y = 
5 0
–  =
2 3 2 − 0
4 0
1 4 0 2 2  = 2 0
∴ =  
2  2  1 1 
Y= .
2 2 2 
 2 2 
 2 3
(ii) Given: 2X + 3Y =   ...(i)
 4 0
 − 2 − 2
3X + 2Y = 
5 
and ...(ii)
 − 1
Multiplying equation (i) by 2, we have
 2 3 4 6
4X + 6Y = 2   = 8 0
...(iii)
 4 0  
Multiplying equation (ii) by 3, we have
 2 − 2  6 − 6
9X + 6Y = 3 
5  − 3 15 
= ...(iv)
 − 1 
Equation (iv) – equation (iii) gives
 6 − 6 4 6  6−4 − 6 − 6
= 
15 − 0 
5X = 
15 
–  
 − 3 8 0  − 3 − 8
 2 − 12
=  − 11 15 


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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 2 − 12 
1  2 − 12  
∴ X=  − 11  =  5 5 .
5  15  − 11 3
 5 
Now from equation (i),
2 3
3Y = 
0
– 2X
4
 2 −12   4 −24 
 2 3  5 5 =  2 3   5 5 
=   – 2  −11  
4 0  −  −22 
 4 0   3     6 
 5   5 

 4 24   6 39 
2 − 5 3+   5 
=  5 =5 
4 + 22 − 6  42
0 − 6
 5   5 
6 39   2 13 
1 5 5 =5 5 
⇒ Y=    
3  42 − 6 
14
− 2
 5   5 
3 2  1 0
8. Find X if Y =   and 2X + Y =  .
1 4 3 2
 1 0  1 0
Sol. 2X + Y = 
−  ⇒ 2X =  − 3 2 – Y
 3 2  
 1 0 3 2  1 − 3 0 − 2  − 2 − 2
⇒ = 
− 2
2X =  – =
− 3 2 1 4  − 3 − 1 2 − 4  − 4
1  − 2 − 2 − 1 − 1
⇒   = 
− 1
X= .
2  − 4 − 2 − 2
1 3 y 0 5 6
2  +   = 
8
9. Find x and y, if .
0 x 1 2 1
 1 3 y 0 5 6
2  + 
2
= 
8
Sol. Given:
 0 x  1 1
2 6 y 0 5 6
⇒ 0 2x +  = 
  1 2 1 8

2 + y 6  5 6
⇒  1  = 1 8
 2 x + 2  
Equating corresponding entries, we have
2 + y = 5 and 2x + 2 = 8
⇒ y = 5 – 2 = 3 and 2x = 8 – 2 = 6 ⇒ x = 3
∴ x = 3, y = 3.
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

10. Solve the equation for x, y, z and t if

 x z  1 – 1  3 5
2  + 3  = 3 
 y t  0 2  4 6
 x z  1 – 1  3 5
Sol. Given: 2  + 3  = 3 
 y t 0 2 4 6
 2x 2z 3 − 3  9 15
⇒ 2 y 2t + 0 6
=  
   12 18
 2x + 3 2z − 3  9 15
⇒ 2 y + 0 2t + 6 = 12 18
   
Since the two matrices are equal, so the corresponding elements
are equal.
Thus, 2x + 3 = 9
⇒ 2x = 9 – 3 = 6 ⇒ x =3
Also 2z – 3 = 15 ⇒ 2z = 18 ⇒ z =9
Also 2y = 12 ⇒ y =6
and 2t + 6 = 18 and 2t = 12 ⇒ t =6
∴ x = 3, y = 6, z = 9 and t = 6.
 2  – 1 10
11. If x   + y   =   , find the values of x and y.
 
3   1  5
2  – 1 10
Sol. Given: x   + y   =  
 
3   1  5
 2 x  − y 10 2x − y 10
⇒   +   =   ⇒   =  5
 
3 x   y  
5  3 x + y  
Equating corresponding entries, we have
2x – y = 10 ...(i)
and 3x + y = 5 ...(ii)
Adding eqns. (i) and (ii) we have 5x = 15
15
or x = = 3
5
Putting x = 3 in (ii), 9 + y = 5 ⇒ y = 5 – 9 = – 4
∴ x = 3, y = – 4.
x y  x 6   4 x + y
12. Given: 3   =  – 1 2w +  z + w 3 
; find the
 z w    
values of x, y, z and w.
x y  x 6  4 x + y
Sol. Given: 3   =   +
z + w
z w  – 1 2w  3 
3 x 3y  x+4 6 + x + y
⇒  3z 3w
= 
 − 1 + z + w 2w + 3 
Equating corresponding entries, we have
3x = x + 4 ⇒ 2x = 4 ⇒ x = 2 ...(i)
and 3y = 6 + x + y ⇒ 2y = 6 + x = 6 + 2 (By (i))
⇒ 2y = 8 ⇒ y =4 ...(ii)
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

and 3z = – 1 + z + w ⇒ 2z – w =– 1 ...(iii)
and 3w = 2w + 3 ⇒ w = 3.
Putting w = 3 in eqn. (iii),
2z – 3 = – 1 ⇒ 2z =2 ⇒ z = 1
∴ x= 2, y = 4, z = 1, w = 3.
cos x – sin x 0
13. If F(x) =  sin x cos x 0 , show that F(x) F(y)

 0 0 1
= F(x + y).

cos x – sin x 0
Sol. Given: F(x) = sin x cos x 0 ...(i)
 0 0 1 
cos y – sin y 0
 y cos y 0
Changing x to y in (i), F(y) = sin
 0 0 1 
cos x – sin x 0 cos y – sin y 0
 0 sin y 0
L.H.S. = F(x) F(y) = sin x cos x cos y
 0 0 1   0 0 1 
Performing row by column multiplication,
cos x cos y − sin x sin y + 0 − cos x sin y − sin x cos y + 0 0 − 0 + 0
= sin x cos y + cos x sin y + 0 − sin x sin y + cos x cos y + 0 0 + 0 + 0
 0+0+0 0+0+0 0 + 0 + 1 

 cos ( x + y)
– sin ( x + y) 0
 0
= sin ( x + y) cos ( x + y) [... – cos x sin y – sin x cos y
 0 0 1 
= – (cos x sin y + sin x cos y) = – sin (x + y)]
Now, changing x to x + y in (i), we get

 cos ( x + y) – sin ( x + y) 0
 0
F(x + y) = sin ( x + y) cos ( x + y) Thus, L.H.S. = R.H.S.
 0 0 1 
14. Show that:
5 – 1  2 1 2 1 5 – 1
(i)  ≠ 
6 7 3 
4 3 4 6 7
1 2 3 – 1 1 0  – 1 1 0 1 2 3
 0   0 1  ≠  0
(ii)  0 1  –1
 – 1 1  0
 1 0 
1 1 0   2 3 4  2 3 4 1 1 0 
5 – 1 2 1 5(2) + (− 1)3 5(1) + (− 1)4
L.H.S. = 
7 3 4  6(2) + 7(3) 6(1) + 7(4) 
Sol. (i) =
6

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Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 10 − 3 5−4  7 1
= 
34
=   ...(i)
12 + 21 6 + 28 33
2 1 5 – 1  2(5) + 1(6) 2(− 1) + 1(7)
R.H.S. =  =
3 4 6 7 3(5) + 4(6) 3(− 1) + 4(7)
 10 + 6 −2+7 16 5
=   =   ...(ii)
15 + 24 − 3 + 28  39 25
From (i) and (ii), we can say that L.H.S. ≠ R.H.S.
 7 1
(Because corresponding entries of matrices   and
33 34
16 5
39 25 are not same).
 
1 2 3  – 1 1 0
0 1 0   0 – 1 1
(ii) Let A =   and B =  
1 1 0  2 3 4 
Here, matrices A and B are both of order 3 × 3
respectively, therefore AB and BA are both of same order
3 × 3.
1 2 3  – 1 1 0
Now, AB = 0 1 0  0 – 1 1 
1 1 0  2 3 4 
Performing row by column multiplication,
1(− 1) + 2(0) + 3(2) 1(1) + 2(− 1) + 3(3) 1(0) + 2(1) + 3(4) 
 0(0) + 1(1) + 0(4)
= 0(− 1) + 1(0) + 0(2) 0(1) + 1(− 1) + 0(3)
 1(− 1) + 1(0) + 0(2) 1(1) + 1(− 1) + 0(3) 1(0) + 1(1) + 0(4) 

− 1 + 6 1−2+9 2 + 12  5 8 14 
 1 ...(i)
or AB =  0 −1 
1  =  0 −1
 − 1 1−1 1   − 1 0 1

− 1 1 0   1 2 3
 
Again, BA =  0 − 1 1 0 1 0

 2 3 4   1 1 0
Performing row by column multiplication,
(− 1)1 + 1(0) + 0(1) (− 1)2 + 1(1) + 0(1) (− 1)3 + 1(0) + 0(0)
= 0(1) + (− 1)0 + 1(1) 0(2) + (− 1)1 + 1(1) 0(3) + (− 1)0 + 1(0)
 2(1) + 3(0) + 4(1) 2(2) + 3(1) + 4(1) 2(3) + 3(0) + 4(0) 
 −1 −2+1 − 3 − 1 −1 − 3
 1 −1+1 0   1 0 0
=  =  ...(ii)
2 + 4 4+3+4 6   6 11 6

MathonGo 16
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

From (i) and (ii), AB ≠ BA because corresponding entries of

matrices AB and BA are not same.
Remark. From both questions (i), (ii) we can learn that matrix
multiplication is not commutative.

2 0 1
15. Find A – 5A + 6I if A =  2
2
1 3 .
1 –1 0 

2 0 1  2 0 1 
Sol. A = A . A =  2
2
1 3 

2
 1 3 

 1 –1 0   1 –1 0 
Performing row by column multiplication,

4 + 0 + 1 0+0−1 2 + 0 + 0 5 −1 2
= 4 + 2 + 3 0+1−3 2 + 3 + 0 or A2 = 9 −2 5

 2 − 2 + 0 0−1−0 1 − 3 + 0  0 −1 − 2
∴ A – 5A + 6I = A – 5A + 6I3 (Here I is I3 because matrices A
2 2

and A2 are of order 3 × 3)

5 −1 2 2 0 1 1 0 0
 
= 9 −2 
5 – 5  2 1 3 + 6 0
 1 0
0 −1 − 2 1 −1 0 0 0 1

5 −1 2 10 0 5 6 0 0
 15 + 0 0
= 9 −2 
5 – 10 5 6
0 −1 − 2  5 −5 0 0 0 6

5 − 10 + 6 −1−0+0 2 − 5 + 0  1 −1 − 3
= 9 − 10 + 0 −2−5+6 5 − 15 + 0 = − 1
 −1 − 10
0 − 5 + 0 −1+5+0 − 2 − 0 + 6  − 5 4 4 
Remark. The above question can also be stated as:

2 0 1
If f (x) = x 2 
– 5x + 6 and A = 2 1 3 ; then find f (A).
 1 − 1 0
1 0 2
16. If A =  0 2 1 , prove that A3 – 6A2 + 7A + 2I = 0.
 2 0 3
1 0 2 1 0 2 1 0 2
Sol. Given: A = 0 2 1 ∴ A2 = A . A = 0 2 1 0
 2 1
2 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 3
MathonGo 17
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

1 + 0 + 4 0+0+0 2 + 0 + 6 5 0 8
0 + 0 + 2 0+4+0 0 + 2 + 3 2 4 5
=  = 
 2 + 0 + 6 0+0+0 4 + 0 + 9 8 0 13

 5 0 8   1 0 2 
 2 4 5   0 2 1 
∴ A3 = A2 . A =    
 8 0 13   2 0 3 

 5 + 0 + 16 0+0+0 10 + 0 + 24   21 0 34 
 2 + 0 + 10 0+8+0 4 + 4 + 15  12 8 23
=  or A3 = 
8 + 0 + 26 0+0+0 16 + 0 + 39 34 0 55
L.H.S. = A3 – 6A2 + 7A + 2I
= A3 – 6A2 + 7A + 2I3
[Here I is I3 because A, A2, A3 are matrices of order 3 × 3]

 21 0 34  5 0 8 1 0 2 1 0 0
 23 – 6 2 5 + 7 0
=  12 8 4
 2 
1 + 2 0 1 0
34 0 55 8 0 13 2 0 3 0 0 1

 21 0 34  30 0 48  7 0 14  2 0 0
=  12 8 23 –  12 24 30 +  0 14 7 + 0 2 0
34 0 55 48 0 78 14 0 21 0 0 2

 −9 0 − 14   9 0 14 
=  0   0 7
 − 16 − 7 +
 16
 − 14 0 − 23 14 0 23

 −9+9 0+0 − 14 + 14  0 0 0
=  0+0 − 16 + 16 − 7 + 7 = 0 0 0

 − 14 + 14 0+0 − 23 + 23 0 0 0
= (zero matrix) O = R.H.S.
3 – 2 1 0
17. If A =  and I = , find k so that A2 = kA – 2I.
4 – 2 0
 1
3 – 2
Sol. Given: A = 
4 – 2
3 –2  3 –2 
∴ A2 = A . A = 
4 – 2   4 – 2 
9−8 − 6 + 4 1 − 2
=   = 
12 − 8 − 8 + 4 4 − 4

MathonGo 18
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Putting values of A2, A and I in the given equation A2 = kA – 2I, we

have
1 − 2 3 − 2 1 0  3k − 2k 2 0
4 − 4
= k – 2 =  – 
 4 − 2 0 1 4 k − 2k 0 2
 1 − 2  3k − 2 − 2k 
⇒  4 − 4 =  4 k
   − 2 k − 2
Equating corresponding entries, we have
3k – 2 = 1 ⇒ 3k = 3 ⇒ k = 1 and – 2 = – 2k ⇒ k = 1
and 4k = 4 ⇒ k = 1 and – 4 = – 2k – 2 ⇒ 2k = – 2 + 4 = 2
⇒ k = 1
Therefore, value of k = 1 and is same from all the four equations.
Therefore, k exists and = 1.
 α
 0 – tan
2
18. If A =   and I is the identity matrix of
tan α 0 
 2 
cos α – sin α 
order 2, show that I + A = (I – A) 
cos α 
.
 sin α

 α
 0 – tan
2
Sol. A =   and I is the identity matrix of order 2
 tan α 0 
 2 
1 0
i.e., I = I2 = 
0 1
 α
 0 – tan
1 0 2
L.H.S. = I + A = I2 + A =   +  
0 1  tan α 0 
  2 
 α
 1 – tan 
2
=   ...(i)
 tan α 1 
 2 
 α
 0 – tan
1 0 2
Again, I – A = I2 – A =   –  
0 1  tan α 0 
 2 
 α
 1 tan 
2
=  
 – tan α 1 
 2 

MathonGo 19
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 α
 1 tan 
cos α− sin α  2 cos α − sin α 
=  
R.H.S. = (I – A) 
sin α

cos α   – tan α  sin α cos α 
 1 
2
Performing row by column multiplication,
 α α
 cos α + sin α tan 2 − sin α + cos α tan 
2
=  
α α
 – cos α tan + sin α sin α tan + cos α 
 2 2 
 α α
 sin sin 
2 2
 cos α + sin α α
− sin α + cos α
α
 cos cos 
=  2 2
 α α 
 sin sin 
 – cos α 2 + sin α sin α 2 + cos α 
 α α 
cos cos
 2 2 
 α α α α
 cos α cos 2 + sin α sin 2 − sin α cos
2
+ cos α sin 
2
 α α 
 cos cos 
=  
2 2
α α α α 
 − cos α sin + sin α cos sin α sin + cos α cos 
 2 2 2 2 
 α α 
 cos cos 
2 2
 α α
Numerator of a12 is = –  sin α cos − cos α sin 
 2 2
  α  α   α α
 cos  α − 
2
− sin  α −  
 2   cos 2 − sin 2 
 
 α α   cos α α 
 cos cos  cos
2 2  2 2 
=   = 
 sin  α α  α  α α 
 −  cos  α −   sin cos 
 2  2   2 2 
 α α   α α 
   cos 2 cos

cos
2
cos
2  2 
[... cos A cos B + sin A sin B = cos (A – B)
and sin A cos B – cos A sin B = sin (A – B)]

 α
 1 – tan 
2
=   ...(ii)
 tan α 
1
 2 
From equations (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
MathonGo 20
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

cos α − sin α 
i.e., I + A = (I – A)  .
sin α cos α 
19. A trust fund has ` 30,000 that must be invested in two
different types of bonds. The first bond pays 5% interest
per year and the second bond pays 7% interest per year.
Using matrix multiplication, determine how to divide
` 30,000 in two types of bonds, if the trust fund must
obtain an annual interest of
(a) ` 1800 (b) ` 2000.
Sol. Let the investment in first bond be ` x,
then the investment in second bond = ` (30,000 – x)
5
Interest paid by first bond = 5% = per rupee
100
7
Interest paid by second bond = 7% = per rupee
100
Matrix of investment is A = [x 30000 – x]1 × 2
 5 
 100 
Matrix of annual interest per rupee is B =  
 7 
 100  2 × 1
Matrix of total annual interest is
 5 
 100  7(30000 − x) 
 = 
5x
AB = [x 30000 – x]  + 
 7   100 100 
 100 

 5 x + 210000 − 7 x   210000 − 2 x 
=   =  
 100   100 
2,10, 000 − 2 x
∴ Total annual interest = `
100
(a) total annual interest is given to be ` 1,800
2,10, 000 − 2 x
∴ = 1,800
100
⇒ 2,10,000 – 2x = 1,80,000 ∴ x = 15,000
Hence, investment in first bond = ` 15,000
and investment in second bond = ` (30,000 – x)
= ` (30,000 – 15,000) = ` 15,000.
(b) Total annual interest is given to be ` 2,000
2,10, 000 − 2 x
∴ = 2,000
100
⇒ 2,10,000 – 2x = 2,00,000 ∴ x = 5,000
Hence, investment in first bond = ` 5,000 and investment in
second bond = ` (30,000 – x) = ` (30,000 – 5,000) = ` 25,000.
MathonGo 21
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

20. The bookshop of a particular school has 10 dozen chemistry

books, 8 dozen physics books, 10 dozen economics books.
Their selling prices are ` 80, ` 60 and ` 40 each
respectively. Find the total amount the bookshop will
receive from selling all the books using matrix algebra.
Sol. Let us represent the number of books as a 1 × 3 row matrix
 10 dozen 8 dozen 10 dozen 
B = 
10 × 12 = 120 8 × 12 = 96 10 × 12 = 120
Let us represent the selling prices of each book as a 3 × 1 column
80 
 
matrix S = 60 
40 
∴ [Total amount received by selling all books]1 × 1
80 
= BS = [120 96 120]1 × 3 60 
40  3×1
= [120(80) + 96(60) + 120(40)]1 × 1
= [9600 + 5760 + 4800] = [20160]
Equating corresponding entries,
Total amount received by selling all the books = ` 20160.
Assume X, Y, Z, W and P are matrices of order 2 × n, 3 × k,
2 × p, n × 3 and p × k respectively. Choose the correct
answer in Exercises 21 and 22.
21. The restriction on n, k and p so that PY + WY will be
defined are:
(A) k = 3, p = n (B) k is arbitrary, p = 2
(C) p is arbitrary, k = 3 (D) k = 2, p = 3.
Sol. Given: Matrix PY + WY is defined (⇒ possible).
Matrix P is of order p × k and matrix Y is of order 3 × k and
matrix W is of order n × 3.
Now PY + WY = (P + W) Y ... (i)
We know that sum P + W is defined if two matrices
↓ ↓
p × k n × 3
P and W are of same order. Therefore p = n and k = 3 and order
of P + W is n × 3 (or p × k)
Therefore from (1), PY + WY = (P + W) Y is defined as
↓ ↓
n×3 3×k

Number of columns in P + W is same as number of rows in Y.

∴ p = n and k = 3
∴ Option (A) is the correct answer i.e., k = 3 and p = n.
MathonGo 22
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

22. If n = p, then order of the matrix 7X – 5Z is

(A) p × 2 (B) 2 × n (C) n × 3 (D) p × n.
Sol. Since n = p (given), the order of matrices X and Z are equal.
∴ 7X – 5Z is well defined and the order of 7X – 5Z is same as
the order of X and Z.
∴ The order of 7X – 5Z is either equal to 2 × n or 2 × p
(... n = p)
∴ The correct option is (B), i.e., the order of 7X – 5Z is 2 × n.

MathonGo 23
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Exercise 3.3
1. Find the transpose of each of the following matrices:
 5
 1 – 1 5 6
  1 – 1  
(i) (ii)   (iii)  3 5 6 .
 2 2 3
 – 1  2 3 – 1
   

 5
 1
Sol. (i) Let A =   (is a column matrix 3 × 1)
 2
 − 1
 
Changing column of A into a row, (row will automatically
become column)
 1 
Transpose of A (i.e., A′ or AT) = 5 − 1
 2 
(which is a row matrix 1 × 3)
1 − 1
(ii) Let A = 
2 3
Changing rows of A to columns of A,
(columns will automatically beocme rows),
 1 2
A′ or AT =  .
− 1 3
− 1 5 6
 
(iii) Let A =  3 5 6
 2 3 − 1

(Making) changing rows of A as columns of the new matrix,
− 1 3 2
T 
we have A′ or A =  5 5 3 .
 6 6 − 1


MathonGo 24
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

– 1 2 3 – 4 1 – 5
 0  , then verify that
2. If A =  5 7 
9  and B =  1 2
 – 2 1 1   1 3 1
(i) (A + B)′′ ′
= A′ + B′ ′ (ii) (A – B)′′ = A′′ – B′′ .
Sol. (i) To verify (A + B)′ = A′ + B′
– 1 2 3 – 4 1 – 5
 9 +  1
 0
A+B=  5 7 2
 – 2 1 1   1 3 1

– 1 − 4 2 + 1 3 − 5  – 5 3 − 2
 9
=  5 + 1 7 + 2 
9 + 0 =  6 9
 – 2 + 1 1 + 3 1 + 1   – 1 4 2
(Making) changing rows of A + B as columns of the new
matrix, we have
– 5 6 − 1
L.H.S. = (A + B)′ =  3 9 4  ...(i)
 – 2 9 2

– 1 2 3 ′ – 4 1 – 5 ′
 1 0
R.H.S. = A′ + B′ =  5 7 9 +  2

 – 2 1 1  1 3 1

– 1 5 – 2 – 4 1 1
 3
=  2 7 
1 +  1 2
 3 9 1  − 5 0 1

 − 1 − 4 5 + 1 − 2 + 1  – 5 6 − 1
 1 + 3 =  3 9 4 
=  2+1 7+2 ...(ii)
 3 − 5 9 + 0 1 + 1  − 2 9 2
From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
i.e., (A + B)′ = A′ + B′
(ii) To verify (A – B)′ = A′ – B′
– 1 2 3 – 4 1 – 5
A – B =  5 7 9 –  1
 2 0
 − 2 1 1  1 3 1

– 1 + 4 2 − 1 3 + 5  3 1 8
 4 9
=  5 − 1 7 − 2 
9 − 0 =  5
 − 2 − 1 1 − 3 1 − 1  − 3 − 2 0
(Making) changing rows of A – B as columns of the new
matrix, we have

MathonGo 25
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

3 4 − 3
1 5 − 2
L.H.S. = (A – B)′ =  ...(i)
8 9 0

− 1 2 3 ′ – 4 1 – 5 ′
 9 –  1 0
R.H.S. = A′ – B′ =  5 7 2
 − 2 1 1  1 3 1
− 1 5− 2  − 4 1 1
 1 –  1 2 3
=  2 7
 3 9 1  − 5 0 1
 − 1 + 4 5 − 1 − 2 − 1  3 4 − 3
=  2 − 1 7 − 2 1 − 3 =  1 5 − 2 ...(ii)
 
 3 + 5 9 − 0 1 − 1 8 9 0
From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
Note (A′′ )′′ = A.
 3 4
2 and B = 
 –1 2 1
3. If A′′ =  – 1 , then verify that
 1 2 3
 0 1 
(i) (A + B)′′ = A′′ + B′′ (ii) (A – B)′′ = A′′ – B′′ .
 3 4
 − 1 2 1
Sol. Given: A′ =  − 1 2 and B =  
  1 2 3
 0 1 
Making rows of A′ as columns of the new matrix (transpose of
3 −1 0
A′ i.e., (A′)′) i.e., A = 
4 2 1
3 −1 0 − 1 2 1
+ 
3
(i) A + B = 
4 2 1  1 2
3 − 1 −1+ 2 0 + 1 2 1 1
=  = 
4 + 1 2+2 1 + 3 5 4 4
2 5
2 1′  4 
1
∴ L.H.S. = (A + B)′ =   = 1 ...(i)
5 4 4
1 4 
 3 4
− 1 2 1 ′
R.H.S. = A′ + B′ =  − 1 2 +  (given)
 1 2 3
 0 1 
 3 4  − 1 1  3 − 1 4 + 1  2 5
=  − 1  2 + 2 =  1 4  ...(ii)
2 +  2 2 =  − 1 + 2
 0 1   1 3  0 + 1 1 + 3   1 4 

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From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.

3 −1 0 − 1 2 1
(ii) A – B = 
1  1 3
–
4 2  2
3 + 1 −1−2 0 − 1 4 −3 − 1
=  = 
4 − 1 2−2 1 − 3 3 0− 2
 4 3
4 −3 − 1 ′  
∴ L.H.S. = (A – B)′ =  = − 3 0 ...(i)
3 0 − 2  
 − 1 − 2
 3 4
  − 1 2 1 ′
R.H.S. = A′ – B′ =  − 1 2 – 
 1 2 3
 0 1 
(given)
 3 4  − 1 1   3 + 1 4 − 1  4 3
 2 –  2 2 =  − 1 − 2 2 − 2 =  − 3
 0 ...(ii)
= − 1  
 0 1   1 3  0 − 1 1 − 3   − 1 − 2
From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
– 2 3 – 1 0
4. If A′′ =   and B =  , then find (A + 2B)′′.
 1 2  1 2
 – 2 3  – 1 0
Sol. Given: A′ =   and B =  
 1 2  1 2
Making rows of A′ as columns of the new matrix (transpose of A′
– 2 1
i.e., (A′)′) i.e., A = 
 3 2
– 2 1 – 1 0  – 2 1 – 2 0
∴ A + 2B = 
 3 2 + 2  1 2 =  3 2
+ 
 2 4

– 2 − 2 1 + 0  – 4 1
=   =  5 6
 3 + 2 2 + 4   
Making rows of this matrix as columns of new matrix, we have
 – 4 5
(A + 2B)′ =  .
 1 6
5. For the matrices A and B, verify that (AB)′′ = B′′A′′, where
 1 0
(i) A =  – 4 , B = [– 1 2 1] (ii) A =  1 , B = [1 5 7].
 
 3  2 

 1
Sol. (i) Given: A =  – 4  and B = [– 1 2 1]
 
 3

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 1 
∴ AB =  – 4 
 [ – 1 2 1]1 × 3 is a matrix of order
 3  3×1

− 1 2 1
3 × 3 and =  4 −8 − 4 
 − 3 6 3
(Using row by column multiplication rule)

− 1 2 1 ′ − 1 4 − 3
L.H.S. = (AB)′ =  4  2 6
 −8 − 4 =  −8 ...(i)
 − 3 6 3  1 −4 3

 1 ′
 
R.H.S. = B′A′ = [– 1 2 1]′  − 4
 3

 − 1 − 1 4 − 3
 
=  2 [ 1 – 4 3] =  2 − 8 6 ...(ii)
 1  1 − 4 3
From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S. i.e., (AB)′ = B′A′.
0 
 
(ii) Given: A =  1 and B = [1 5 7]
 2
 0  0 0 0
∴ AB =  1  [ 1 5 7 ]1 × 3 = 1 5 7
 2  2 10 14 
3×1

0 0 0 ′ 0 1 2
 10
L.H.S. = (AB)′ = 1 5 7 = 0 5 ...(i)

2 10 14 0 7 14 

0 ′ 1
 
R.H.S. = B′A′ = [1 5 7]′ 1 =  5  [ 0 1 2]1 × 3
2  7 
3×1
0 1 2
= 0 5 10
 ...(ii)
0 7 14 
From (i) and (ii) we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
i.e., (AB)′ = B′A′.
Remark. Result to remember form this [Link]. 5:
(AB)′′ = B′′ A′′ | Reversal Law
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 cos α sin α 
(i) If A =  , then verify that A′′A = I
cos α 
6.
 – sin α
 sin α cos α 
(ii) If A =  , then verify that A′′A = I.
 – cos α sin α 
 cos α sin α 
Sol. (i) Given: A = 
 − sin α cos α 

 cos α sin α  ′  cos α sin α 

∴ L.H.S. = A′A =   − sin α
 − sin α cos α   cos α 
cos α − sin α   cos α sin α 
= 
sin α cos α   − sin α cos α 
 cos2 α + sin 2 α cos α sin α − sin α cos α 
=  
 sin α cos α − cos α sin α sin 2 α + cos2 α 
(Row by Column Multiplication)
1 0
=   = I2 (= I) = R.H.S.
 0 1
 sin α cos α 
(ii) Given: A = 
 − cos α sin α 

 sin α cos α  ′
∴ L.H.S. = A′A = 
sin α 
A
 − cos α
 sin α − cos α   sin α cos α 
= 
 cos α sin α   − cos α sin α 
 sin 2 α + cos2 α sin α cos α − cos α sin α 
=  
 cos α sin α − sin α cos α cos2 α + sin 2 α 
1 0
=  = I2 (= I) = R.H.S.
0 1
 1 –1 5
– 1 2 1 
7. (i) Show that the matrix A =  is a
 5 1 3
symmetric matrix.
 0 1 – 1
 1 is a skew-
(ii) Show that the matrix A =  – 1 0
 1 –1 0 
symmetric matrix.
 1 – 1 5
 2 1
Sol. (i) Given: A =  – 1 ...(i)
 5 1 3
(Making) changing rows of matrix A as the columns of the

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 1 – 1 5
 2 1 = A
new matrix A′ =  – 1 [By (i)]
 5 1 3
∴ A′ = A
∴ By definition of symmetric matrix, A is a symmetric
matrix.
 0 1 – 1
 1
(ii) Given: Matrix A =  – 1 0 ...(i)
 1 –1 0

 0 1 – 1 ′  0 –1 1
– 1   1 0 – 1
∴ A′ =  0 1 = 
 1 – 1  – 1 1 0
0
Taking (– 1) common from R.H.S. of A′, we have
 0 1 – 1
 1 = – A
A′ = –  − 1 0 [By (i)]
 1 – 1 0
∴ By definition, matrix A is a skew-symmetric matrix.
1 5
8. For the matrix A =   , verify that
6 7
(i) (A + A′′) is a symmetric matrix.
(ii) (A – A′′) is a skew symmetric matrix.
1 5
Sol. (i) Given: A = 
6 7

1 5 ′ 1 5
+ 
1 6
Let B = A + A′ = A +  = 
6

7 6 7 5 7
1 + 1 5 + 6  2 11
=  =  ...(i)
6 + 5 7 + 7 11 14

 2 11 ′  2 11
∴ B′ =   =   = B [By (i)]
11 14  11 14
∴ B i.e., (A + A′) is a symmetric matrix.
1 5
A = 
(ii) Given:
6 7

1 5 ′
B = A – A′ = A – 
7
Let
6
1 5 1 6 1 − 1 5 − 6
= 
7 − 7
=   –  
6 7 5 7 6 − 5

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

0 − 1
B = 
0
or ...(i)
1
0 − 1 ′  0 1
∴ B′ =   =  
1 0  − 1 0
Taking (– 1) common from R.H.S. of B′,
0 − 1
B′ = – 
0
= – B [By (i)]
1
∴ Matrix B i.e., A – A′ is a skew symmetric matrix.
 0 a b
1 1 – a 0 c
9. Find (A + A′′) and (A – A′′) when A =  .
2 2  – b –c 0 
 0 a b
 c 
Sol. Given: A = – a 0
 – b –c 0

 0 a b ′ 0 − a − b
∴ A′ = 
– a 0 c  =  a
 0 − c
 – b – c 0  b c 0
 0 a b 0 − a − b
∴ A + A′ =  − a 0 c  +  a 0 − c
 − b − c 0  b c 0
 0+0 a − a b − b 0 0 0
=  − a + a 0 + 0 c − c = 0
 0 0
 − b + b − c + c 0 + 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 0 0 
1 1 0   
∴ (A + A′) = 0 0  = 0 0 0 
2 2 
0 0 0 0 0 0
 0 a b  0 − a − b
Again A – A′ =  − a 0 c  –  a 0 − c
 − b − c 0  b c 0
 0−0 a + a b + b  0 2a 2b
 − 2a 2c
=  − a − a 0 − 0 c + c  =  0
 − b − b − c − c 0 − 0  − 2b − 2c 0
 0 2a 2b
1 1 
∴ (A – A′) = − 2a 0 2c
2 2 
 − 2b − 2c 0
 0 a b
1
Multiplying each entry by , =  − a 0 c  .
2
 − b −c 0
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

10. Express the following matrices as the sum of a symmetric

and skew symmetric matrix:
 6 –2 2
3 5
(i)  (ii)  – 2 – 1
– 1
3
1  2 –1 3
 3 3 – 1
– 2 – 2 1  1 5
(iii)  (iv) – 1
 – 4 – 5 2  2
Note Formula. Every square matrix A can be expressed as
1
the sum of a symmetric matrix (A + A′′ ) and skew
2
1
symmetric matrix (A – A′′).
2
3 5
Sol. (i) Given: Matrix (say) A = 1 – 1
 
3 5 ′ 3 1
therefore, A′ =   =  
1 – 1 5 – 1
By Formula above, symmetric matrix part of A

1 1  3 5  3
+
1
= (A + A′′) =  – 1 5 – 1
2 2  1
1 6 6 3 3
=   =   ...(i)
2  6 – 2 3 – 1
and skew symmetric matrix part of A.

1 1  3 5  3
−
1  1 3 − 3 5 − 1
= (A – A′′)=  − 1 5 − 1  = 2  − − + 
2 2  1 1 5 1 1
 11 
 2 (0)
(4)
1  0 4 2   0 2
= =   =   ...(ii)
2  − 4 
0  1 (− 4)
1   − 2 0
 (0) 
2 2 
∴ Given matrix A is sum of matrices (i) and (ii)
3 3
= symmetric matrix  + skew symmetric matrix
3 − 1
 0 2
− 2 0
.

 6 –2 2
(ii) Given: matrix say A =  – 2 3 – 1
 2 –1 3

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Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 6 –2 2 ′  6 –2 2
∴ A′ =  – 2  = – 2 – 1
 3 – 1  3
 2 –1 3  2 –1 3
1
∴ Symmetric part of A = (A + A′′)
2
 6 –2 2  6 –2 2
1 
= –2 3 – 1 + – 2 3 – 1
2    

 2 –1 3  2 –1 3
 12 –4 4  6 –2 2
1 
= –4 6 – 2 =  – 2 3 – 1 ...(i)
2  
 4 −2 6  2 –1 3
1
and skew symmetric part of A = (A – A′′)
2
 6 –2 2  6 –2 2 
1  
=  –2 3 – 1 −  – 2 3 – 1 
2 
  2 –1 3  2 –1 3 
 6−6 –2+2 2 − 2
1 
= –2+2 3−3 – 1 + 1
2 
 2 − 2 −1+1 3 − 3
0 0 0  0 0 0
1   = 0
= 0 0 0 0 0 ...(ii)
2   
0 0 0 0 0 0
∴ Given matrix A = sum of matrices (i) and (ii)

 6 –2 2
= symmetric matrix  – 2 3 – 1
 2 –1 3
0 0 0
+ skew symmetric matrix 0 0 0 .
0 0 0
 3 3 – 1
(iii) Given: matrix say A =  – 2 –2 1
 – 4 –5 2
'  3
 3 3 – 1 −2 – 4
   
∴ A′ =  – 2 – 2 1 =  3 –2 − 5
– 4 – 5 2 – 1 1 2
 

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1
∴ Symmetric part of A = (A + A′′)
2
 3 3 – 1  3 −2 – 4 
1  
=  – 2 –2 1 +  3 –2 − 5 
2  – 4 –5 2  – 1 1 2 

 1 5
 3 2
– 
2
 6 1 – 5  
1    1 − 2 − 2
= 1 – 4 − 4 =  2  ...(i)
2  
 – 5 – 4 4   
− 5 − 2 2 
 2 
1
and skew symmetric part of A = (A – A′′)
2
 3 3 – 1  3 − 2 – 4
1 
= –2 –2 1 −  3 – 2 − 5
2   
  – 4 – 5 2  – 1 1 2
 3−3 3+2 − 1 + 4
1 
= –2−3 −2+2 1 + 5
2 
 − 4 + 1 −5−1 2 − 2
 5 3
 0 2 2
 3−3 3+2 − 1 + 4  
1 – 2 − 3 1 + 5 =  − 
5
=  −2+2 0 3 ...(ii)
2  2 
 − 4 + 1 −5−1 2 − 2  
– 3 − 3 0
 2 
∴ Given matrix A = sum of matrices (i) and (ii)
 1 5
 3 2
– 
2
 
 1 − 2 − 2
= symmetric matrix  
2
 
− 5 − 2 2 
 2 

 5 3
 0 2 2
 
 5
3 
+ skew symmetric matrix  − 0
2
 
– 3 − 3 0
 2 

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 1 5  1 5 ′ 1 − 1
∴ A′ =  5 2
(iv) Given: matrix say A =   =
– 1 2 – 1 2 
1
∴ Symmetric part of A = (A + A′′)
2
1   1 5  1 − 1  1  2 4  1 2
=  + 2 
=   =   ...(i)
2   – 1 2  5 2  4 4 2 2
1
and skew symmetric part of A = (A – A′′)
2
 
1   1 5  1 − 1  1  1 − 1 5 + 1
=   − 1 2 − 5   =   − 1 − 5 2 − 2 
2    2  2  

1  0 6  0 3
=  =   ...(ii)
2  − 6 0  − 3 0
∴ Given matrix = Sum of matrices (i) and (ii)
 1 2
= Symmetric matrix  
2 2
 0 3
+ skew-symmetric matrix  .
 − 3 0
Choose the correct answer in Exercises 11 and 12
11. If A and B are symmetric matrices of same order, AB – BA
is a
(A) Skew-symmetric matrix (B) Symmetric Matrix
(C) Zero matrix (D) Identity matrix.
Sol. Given: A and B are symmetric matrices
⇒ A′ = A and B′ = B ...(i)
Now (AB – BA)′ = (AB)′ – (BA)′ [... (P – Q)′ = P′ – Q′]
= B′A′ – A′B′ [Reversal Law]
= BA – AB [Using (i)]
= – (AB – BA)
∴ (AB – BA) is a skew symmetric.
Thus, option (A) is the correct answer.
cos α – sin α 
12. If A =  , then A + A′′ = I, if the value of α is
 sin α cos α 
π π 3π
(A) (B) (C) π (D) .
6 3 2
cos α – sin α 
Sol. Given: A = 
sin α cos α 
Also given A + A′ = I
cos α – sin α  cos α – sin α  ′
⇒ sin α  + 
cos α 
= I = I2
 cos α  sin α

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Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

cos α – sin α   cos α sin α  1 0

⇒ sin α  +   = 
 cos α   – sin α cos α  0 1
2 cos α 0  1 0
⇒  0  = 0
 2 cos α   1
Equating corresponding entries, we have
2 cos α = 1
1 π π
⇒ cos α = = cos ∴ α = .
2 3 3
Thus, option (B) is the correct answer.

MathonGo 36
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Exercise 3.4
Using elementary transformations, find the inverse of each of the
matrices, if it exists in Exercises 1 to 6.
1 – 1
1. 
3
.
2
1 – 1
Sol. Let A = 
2 3
We shall find A–1, if it exists; by elementary (Row) transforma-
tions (only)
So we must write A = IA only and not A = AI
1 – 1 1 0
∴ 2  = 0 1 A
 3  
(Here I is I2 because A is 2 × 2)
We shall reduce the matrix on left side to I2.
Here a11 = 1
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 to make a21 = 0
R2 → 2 3
2 R1 → 2 − 2
− − +
∴ R2 − 2 R1 = 0 5
1 − 1  1 0 R2 → 0 1
0  = 
1 A
 5 − 2 2 R1 → 2 0
− − −
∴ R2 − 2 R1 = −2 1
1
Operate R2 → R2 to make a22 = 1
5
 1 0
1 − 1  − 2 1 A
∴ 0 =
 1  
 5 5 
Now operate R1 → R1 + R2 to make a12 = 0

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 2 1
1 + 0 − 1 + 1 1 − 5 0+
5
⇒  0 =  A
 1   −2 1 
 5 5 

 3 1
1 0  5
⇒ 0 5 A
 1 (= I2) =  − 2 
 1
 5 5   3 1
 5 5
∴ By definition of inverse of a matrix, A =  –1

 − 2 1
 5 5 
Note. Any row operation done on left hand side matrix must also
be done on the prefactor I2 of right hand side matrix.
Note. Definition of inverse of a square matrix. A square
matrix B is said to be inverse of a square matrix A if AB = I
and BA = I. Then B = A–1.
Remark. If the student is interested in finding A –1 by
elementary column transformations, then he or she should start
with A = AI and apply only column operations.
2 1
2. 
1
.
1
2 1
Sol. Let A = 
1 1
2 1 1 0
⇒
1 1 = 0
We know that A = I2A
  1 A
Operate R1 ↔ R2 (to make a11 = 1)
1 1  0 1
⇒ 2 1 = 1 0 A
   
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 (to make a21 = 0)
 1 1   0 1 
⇒ 2 − 2  = 
0 − 2
A
 1 − 2 1 − 0
1 1 0 1
⇒ 0 − 1 =  1 − 2 A
   
Operate R2 → (– 1) R2 (to make a22 = 1)
 1 1  0 1
⇒ 0 1 =  − 1 2 A
   
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a12 = 0)
1 0  1 − 1
⇒ 0  (= I2) = 
2
A
 1 − 1
MathonGo 38
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 1 − 1
∴ By definition of inverse of a square matrix, A–1 =  .
− 1 2
1 3
3. 
7
.
2
1 3
Sol. Let A = 
2 7
 1 3  1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ 2 7 = 0 1 A
   
Here a11 = 1. To make a21 = 0, let us operate R2 → R2 – 2R1.

1 3  1 0 R2 → 2 7
⇒ 0  = 
1
A
 1 − 2 2R1 → 2 6
– – –
∴ R2 – 2R1 = 0 1
R2 → 0 1
2R 1 → 2 0
– – –
∴ R2 – 2R1 = – 2 1
Now a22 = 1. To make a12 as zero, operate R1 → R1 – 3R2.
1 − 0 3 − 3 1 + 6 0 − 3
⇒  0 1 
= 
1 
A
  −2
1 0  7 − 3
⇒ 0 1 (= I2) =  − 2 1 
A
  
 7 − 3
∴ By definition, A–1 =  .
− 2 1
2 3
4. 
5 7
2 3
Sol. Set A = 
5 7
2 3 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ 5 7
= 
1
A
 0
Let us try to make a11 = 1. Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1
 2 3   1 0  2 3  1 0
⇒  = 0 − 2 1 − 0 A ⇒  = 
1
A
 5 − 4 7 − 6   1 1 − 2
Now operate R1 ↔ R2 to make a11 = 1
1 1 − 2 1
⇒   =  A
2 3  1 0

MathonGo 39
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Operate R2 ↔ R2 – 2R1 to make a21 = 0

 1 1   −2 1  1 1 − 2 1
⇒  A ⇒ 
1
= 
− 2
= A
2 − 2 3 − 2 1 + 4 0 − 2 0  5
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 to make a12 = 0
1 0 − 2 − 5 1 + 2
⇒ 0 1
(= I2) = 
  5 − 2 

− 7 3 − 7 3
⇒ A ⇒ A–1 = 
I2 = 
 5 − 2
  5 − 2
Remark. In the above solution to make a11 = 1, we could also
1
operate R1 → R . But for the sake of convenience and to avoid
2 1
lengthy computations, we should avoid multiplying by fractions.
2 1
5. 
7 4 .
2 1
Sol. Let A = 
7 4
 2 1  1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ 7 4 = 0 1 A
   
Let us try to make a11 = 1. Operate R2 → R2 – 3R1
 2 1   1 0  2 1  1 0
⇒ 7 − 6 4 − 3 = 0 − 3 1 − 0 A ⇒ 1  = 
1
A
     1 − 3
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 to make a11 = 1

1 0
− 1  4
⇒ 1 1
A= 
 1 − 3
Now Operate R2 → R2 – R1 (to make a21 = 0)
1 0  4 − 1
⇒ 0  = 
2
A
 1 − 7
Now a12 = 0 and a22 = 1.
 4 − 1
or I2 =  A
− 7 2
− 1
∴ By definition of inverse of a square matrix, A–1 = 
4
.
− 7 2
 2 5
6.  .
 1 3
2 5
Sol. Let A = 
1 3

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

2 5 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒  1 3 = 0 A
   1
Operate R1 ↔ R2 to make a11 = 1;
 1 3 0 1
⇒ 2 5 =  1 0 A
   
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 (to make a21 = 0)
 1 3   0 1 
⇒ 2 − 2  =  A
 5 − 6 1 − 0 0 − 2
1 3 0 1
⇒ 0 − 1 = 1 − 2 A
   
Operate R2 → (– 1)R2 to make a22 = 1;
1 3  0 1
⇒ 0 1 =  − 1 2 A
   
Operate R1 → R1 – 3R2 (to make a12 = 0)
1 − 0 3 − 3 0 + 3 1 − 6
⇒  0 1 
= 
2 
A
  −1
1 0  3 − 5
⇒ 0  (= I2) = 
2
A
 1 − 1
 3 − 5
∴ By Definition, A–1 = 
2
.
− 1
Using elementary transformations, find the inverse of each of the
matrices, if it exists, in Exercises 7 to 14.
3 1
7. 
2
.
5
3 1
Sol. Let A =  
5 2
3 1 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ 5  = 
1
A
 2 0
Let us try to make a11 = 1.

6 2 2 0
Operate R1 → 2R1 ⇒ 5  =  A
 2 0 1
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a11 = 1)
1 0 2 − 1
⇒ 5 2 = 0 A
   1
Operate R2 → R2 – 5R1 (to make a21 = 0)
1 0  2 −1  1 0  2 − 1
⇒  =  A ⇒  =  A
0 2 0 − 10 1 + 5 0 2  − 10 6

MathonGo 41
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

1
Operate R2 → R2 (to make a22 = 1)
2
1 0  2− 1
⇒ 0  (= I2) =  A
 1 − 5 3
Now a12 has already become zero. Therefore,
 2 − 1
A–1 =  .
− 5 3
4 5
8. 
4
.
3
4 5
Sol. Let A = 
3 4
4 5 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒  3 4 = 0 A
   1
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a11 = 1)
1 1  1 − 1
⇒ 3 4 = 0 1
A
  
Operate R2 → R2 – 3R1 (to make a21 = 0)
 1 1   1 −1  1 1  1 − 1
⇒  A ⇒ 0 1
= 
4
 =  A
3 − 3 4 − 3 0 − 3 1 + 3  − 3
Now a22 has already become 1.
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a12 = 0)
1 0 1 + 3 − 1 − 4
⇒ 0 1
(= I2) = 
4 
A
  −3
 4 − 5  4 − 5
⇒ I2 =  A. Therefore, A–1 =  .
− 3 4 − 3 4
3 10
9.  .
2 7
3 10
Sol. Let A = 
2 7
3 10 1 0
2 ⇒
 = 0 1
We know that A = I2A A
 7 
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a11 = 1)
 1 3  1 − 1
⇒ 2 7 = 0 A
   1
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 (to make a21 = 0)
 1 3   1 −1  1 3  1 − 1
⇒  A ⇒ 
1
= 
1 + 2
= 
3
 A
2 − 2 7 − 6 0 − 2 0 − 2

MathonGo 42
 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Now a22 = 1. Operate R1 → R1 – 3R2 (to make a12 = 0)

1 0 1 + 6 − 1 − 9
⇒ = 
3 
 A
0 1  −2
 7 − 10  7 − 10
⇒ I2 =   A ⇒ A–1 = 
− 2 3 − 2 3

 3 – 1
10. 
2
.
– 4

 3 − 1
Sol. Let A = 
− 4 2

 3 − 1 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ = 
1
− 4 A
 2 0
Let us try to make a11 = 1
Operate R1 → R1 + R2.

3 − 4 − 1 + 2 1 + 0 0 + 1 − 1 1 1 1
⇒  −4 A⇒ 
2 
= 
1  2
= 
1
A
  0 − 4 0
Operate R1 → (– 1) R1

 1 − 1 − 1 − 1
⇒  2 
= 
1 
A
− 4  0
Operate R2 → R2 + 4R1 (to make a21 = 0)

1 − 1  1 − 1
⇒ = 
− 3
0  A
 − 2  − 4

Operate R2 →  −
1
  R2 (to make a22 = 1)
2

− 1  − 1 − 1
1
⇒ =
0 3  A
1   2
 2 
Operate R1 → R1 + R2 (to make a12 = 0)
 1
1 0 1 2 
⇒ 0  (= I2) =  A
 1 2 3 
   2
 1
1 2
∴ By definition of inverse of a matrix; A–1 =  .
2 3
 2 
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

2 – 6
11. 
– 2
.
1
2 − 6
Sol. Let A = 
1 − 2
2 − 6 1 0
We know that A = I2A ⇒ 1  = 
1
A
 − 2 0
Operate R1 ↔ R2 (to make a11 = 1)
1 − 2  0 1
⇒ 2 − 6 = 1 0 A
   
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 (to make a21 = 0)
 1 −2   0 1  − 2 0 1
⇒ 
1
⇒  = A = A
2 − 2 − 6 + 4 1 − 0 0 − 2 0

− 2 1 − 2

Operate R2 →  −  R2 (to make a22 = 1)

1
 2
 0 1
1 − 2  1 A
⇒ 0 =
 1 − 1
 2 
Operate R1 → R1 + 2R2 (to make a12 = 0)
 0 − 1 1 + 2
1 + 0 − 2 + 2  −1 A
⇒  =
 0 1   1 
 2 
1 0  − 1 3   − 1 3
⇒ 0 1 (= I2) =  1  A ⇒ A–1 =  .
  − 1  − 1 1
 6 – 3  2   2 
12.   .
– 2 1
 6 − 3
Sol. Let A = 
1
.
− 2
Here, A is a 2 × 2 matrix. So, we start with A = I2 A
 6 − 3 1 0
or − 2  =   A
 1  0 1
Operating R1 → 1/6 R1 to make a11 = 1,
 1 1 
 1 −   0
we have 2 = 6 A
  
 − 2 1  0 1
Operating R2 → R2 + 2R1 to make non-diagonal entry a21 below
a11 as zero,
 1 −1   1 0 
   6
2
we have   =   A
 2 0 + 2 + 
− + 1 − 1 0
 
 2 2
2  6

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 1
 − 1
0 6
or 1 2  = 
 A
  1
0 1
0 
  3
Here, all entries in second row of left side matrix are zero.
∴ A– 1 does not exist.
Note. If after doing one or more elementary row operations, we
obtain all 0’s in one or more rows of the left hand matrix A, then
A–1 does not exist and we say A is not invertible.
 2 – 3
13.  .
– 1 2
 2 − 3
Sol. Let A = 
− 1 2
 2 − 3 1 0
⇒
 = 0 1
We know that A = I2A − 1 A
 2 
Operate R1 → R1 + R2 (to make a11 = 1)
2 − 1 − 3 + 2 1 + 0 0 + 1
⇒  −1  =  A
 2   0 1 
1 − 1 1 1
⇒ − 1  = 0 1 A
 2   
Operate R2 → R2 + R1 (to make a21 = 0)

1 − 1 1 1
⇒ 0  = 
 1 1 2 A
Now a22 = 1. Operate R1 → R1 + R2 (to make a12 = 0)
1 0 2 3
⇒ 0
 1 (= I2) = 1 2 A
2 3
∴ By definition; A–1 = 
2
.
1
2 1
14. 
2
.
4
2 1
Sol. Let A = 
4 2
2 1 1 0
⇒ 4 2
= 
1
We know that A = I2A A
 0
1
Operate R1 → R1 (to make a11 = 1)
2
 1 1 
⇒ 1 2  = 2 0
A
   
 4 2   0 1

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

Operate R2 → R2 – 4R1 (to make a21 = 0)

 1   1   1  1 
⇒ 
1  =  0 
A ⇒ 1 2  =  2 0
A
2 2    
   
4 − 4 2 − 2 0 − 2 1 − 0 
0 0 
 
 − 2 1 

Here one row (namely second row) of the matrix on L.H.S.
contains zeros only.
Hence, A–1 does not exist.
Using elementary transformations, find the inverse of each of the
matrices, if it exists, in Exercises 15 to 17.
2 –3 3
 3  .
15.  2 2
 3 –2 2
 2 – 3 3
Sol. Let A = 2 2 3
3 – 2 2
We know that A = I3A (we have taken I3 because matrix A is of
order 3 × 3)
 2 – 3 3 1 0 0
⇒ 2 2 3 = 0 1 0 A
 
3 – 2 2 0 0 1 
Let us try to make a11 = 1
Operate R1 → R1 – R3
− 1 − 1 1  1 0 − 1
 2 3 = 0 1
 0 A
⇒  2
 3 − 2 2 0 0 1
Operate R1 → (– 1) R1 to make a11 = 1

1 1 − 1 − 1 0 1
⇒ 2  =  0 1 0 A
 2 3 
3 −2 2  0 0 1
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 and R3 → R3 – 3R1 (to make a21 = 0 and
a31 = 0)

 1 1 −1   −1 0 1 
0 + 2 0 − 2 A
⇒ 2 − 2 2−2 3 + 2 =  1−0

3 − 3 −2−3 2 + 3 0 + 3 0−0 1 − 3 

1 1 − 1 − 1 0 1
⇒    
0 0 5 =  2 1 − 2 A
0 − 5 5  3 0 − 2
Operate R2 ↔ R3 (to make a22 non-zero)

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Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

1 1 − 1 − 1 0 1
⇒ 0   3 − 2 A
 −5 5 =  0
0 0 5  2 1 − 2
 1
Operate R2 →  −  R2 to make a22 = 1
 5

1 1 − 1 −1 0 1
0 1 − 1  3 2 
⇒  
 =  − 0
0 0 5 5 A
5  2
 1 − 2
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to make a12 = 0). Here a32 is already zero.
 3 2
1 0 0 − 1 + 5 0 − 0 1− 
5
0 
⇒  1 − 1 =  3 2
 − 0
0 0 5 5 5
 
 2 1 − 2
 2 3
− 5 0 5 
 
=  3 2 A
−
 5 0
5
 
 2 1 − 2
1
Operate R3 → R3 (to make a33 = 1)
5
 2 3 
− 5 0 5 
1 0 0  
0  − 3 0 2 
⇒ 1 − 1 =  5 5  A

0   
0 1  2 1 − 2
 5 5 5 
Operate R2 → R2 + R3 (to make a23 = 0). Here a13 is already zero.
 2 3 
− 5 0
5 
1 0 0  
0  1 1
0  A
⇒
 1 0 (= I3) =  −
5 5
0 0 1  
 2 1 2
− 
 5 5 5 
 2 3 
− 5 0
5 
 
 1 1
0  .
∴ By definition A–1 =  −
5 5
 
 2 1 2
− 
 5 5 5 
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 1 3 – 2
 5 .
16.  – 3 0 –
 2 5 0 
 1 3 – 2
 0 – 5
Sol. Let A =  – 3
 2 5 0
We know that A = I3A
 1 3 – 2 1 0 0
⇒  – 3 0 – 5 = 0 1 0 A
  
 2 5 0 0 0 1
Here a11 is already 1.
Operate R 2 → R 2 + 3R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – 2R 1 (to make a 21 = 0
and a31 = 0)
 1 3 −2   1 0 0 
⇒  − 3 + 3 0+9 − 5 − 6 = 0 + 3 1+0 0 + 0 A
 2 − 2 5−6 0 + 4  0 − 2 0−0 1 − 0 
1 3 − 2  1 0 0
0 −   3 1 0
⇒  9 11 =   A
0 − 1 
4 
 − 2 0 1
Operate R2 ↔ R3 to make a22 simpler entry
1 − 2 3 1 0 0
⇒ 0 4  =  − 2
−1 0 1 A

0
9 − 11  3 1 0
Operate R2 → (– 1) R2 to make a22 = 1
1 3 − 2 1 0 0
⇒ 0 1 − 4  = 2 0 − 1 A

0 9 − 11 3 1 0
Operate R1 → R1 – 3R2 to make a12 = 0 and R3 → R3 – 9R2 (to
make a32 = 0)
1 − 0 3−3 − 2 + 12   1 − 6 0−0 0 + 3
⇒  0 1 − 4  =  2 0 − 1  A

 0 9−9 − 11 + 36 3 − 18 1−0 0 + 9

1 0 10  −5 0 3
0   2 − 1 A
⇒  1 − 4 =  0
0 0 25  − 15 1 9

1
Operate R3 → R3 to make a33 = 1.
25
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 
1
10  −5
0 0 3
0  
⇒ − 4 = 
 1 2 0 − 1 A
0
1  15
0 1 9
− 
 25 25 25 
Operate R1 → R1 – 10R3, (to make a13 = 0) and R2 → R2 + 4R3
(to make a23 = 0).

 150 10 90 
 − 5 + 25 0−
25
3−
25 
1 0 0  
0 0 (= I ) =  2 −
60 4 36 
⇒  1
 0+ −1+
25 
3 A
25 25
0 0 1   
 − 15 1 9 
 25 25 25 
 −2 − 3
 1 5 5 
 
− 2 4 11 
⇒ I3 =  A
5 25 25 
 
 3− 1 9 
 5 25 25 
 −2 3
 1 − 
5 5
 
= −
2 4 11 
∴ By Definition, A–1 .
 5 25 25 
 
2 0 – 1 − 3 1 9 
5  5 25 25 
1 0 
17.  .
 0 1 3
2 0 – 1
Sol. Let A = 5 1 0
0 1 3
2 0 – 1 1 0 0
 0 = 0
We know that A = I3 A ⇒ 5 1
 1 0 A
0 1 3 0 0 1
Let us try to make a11 = 1
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1

2 0 – 1  1 0 0
1 2 =  − 2
⇒  1
 1 0 A
0 1 3  0 0 1
Operate R1 ↔ R2 (to make a11 = 1)

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

1 1 2 − 2 1 0
⇒ 2 0 − 1 =  1 0 0 A
 
0 1 3  0 0 1
Operate R2 → R2 – 2R1 to make a21 = 0. Here a31 is already 0

1 1 2 − 2 1 0
⇒ 0 −2 − 5 =  5 −2 0 A

0 1 3  0 0 1
Operate R2 ↔ R3 (to make a22 = 1)
1 1 2 − 2 1 0
0   0 0 1 A
⇒  1 3 = 
0 − 2 − 5  5 − 2 0
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 to make a12 = 0 and R3 → R3 + 2R2 to
make a32 = 0.
 1 0 − 1 − 2 1 − 1
0 1   0 0 1
⇒  3  =  A
0 0 1  5 − 2 2
Now a33 = 1
Operate R1 → R1 + R3 (to make a13 = 0) and R2 → R2 – 3R3 (to
make a23 = 0)
1 0 0 − 2 + 5 1−2 − 1 + 2
⇒ 0 1 0 (= I ) =  0 − 15 0+6 1 − 6  A
 3 
0 0 1  5 −2 2 
 3 −1 1
 − 5 A
or I3 =  − 15 6
 5 −2 2
 3 −1 1
∴ By definition, A–1 =  − 15 6 − 5 .
 5 −2 2
18. Matrices A and B will be inverse of each other only if
(A) AB = BA (B) AB = BA = 0
(C) AB = 0, BA = I (D) AB = BA = I.
Sol. Option (D) i.e., AB = BA = I is correct answer by definition of
inverse of a square matrix.

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISE
 0 1
1. Let A =   , show that (aI + bA)n = anI + nan – 1 bA where
0 0
I is the identity matrix of order 2 and n ∈ N.

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Sol. Step I. When n = 1, (aI + bA)n = an I + nan – 1 bA

⇒(aI + bA)1 = aI + 1a0bA ⇒ aI + bA = aI + bA which is true.
∴ The result is true for n = 1.
Step II. Suppose the result is true for n = k.
i.e., let (aI + bA)k = ak I + kak – 1 bA ...(i)
Step III. To prove that the result is true for n = k + 1.
Now (aI + bA)k + 1=(aI + bA) . (aI + bA)k
= (aI + bA) (ak I + kak – 1 bA) [Using (i)]
= ak + 1 I2 + kakbIA + akbAI + kak – 1 b2A2
[By distributive property]
= ak + 1 I + kak bA + akbA + kak – 1b2O.
 0 1  0 1  0 0 
∵ I = I, IA = AI = A and A =   0 0 = 0 0 = O
2 2

  0 0     
=ak + 1 I + (k + 1) akb A + O = ak + 1 I + (k + 1) a(k + 1) – 1 bA
⇒ The result is true for n = k + 1.
Hence, by the principle of mathematical induction, the result is
true for all positive integers n.

1 1
1 3 n – 1 3 n – 1 3n – 1 
 
2. If A = 1 
1 , prove that A = 3 n – 1 3 n – 1
1 n
3 n – 1  n ∈ N.
1  n–1 
1
1 3n – 1 3 n – 1 
3
Sol. We shall prove the result by using principle of mathematical
induction.
1 1 1
 1
Given: A = 1 1 ...(i)
1 1 1
3n – 1 3n – 1 3n – 1 
 n–1 
Let P(n): An = 3 3n – 1 3n – 1  ...(ii)
 n–1 
3 3n – 1 3n – 1 
Step I. Putting n = 1 in (ii),
30 30 30 
 0  1 1 1
3 30 30   
Therefore, P(1): A =   = 1 1 1
3
0
30 30  1 1 1
which is given to be true by (i).
∴ P(1) is true i.e., Eqn. (ii) is true for n = 1.
Step II. Let P(k) be true i.e., eqn. (ii) is true for n = k.

3 k – 1 3k – 1 3k – 1 
 
Putting n = k in (ii), Ak = 3 k – 1 3k – 1 3k – 1  ...(iii)
 k–1 k–1 
3 3 3 k – 1 

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Step III. Multiplying corresponding sides of eqn. (iii) by eqn. (i)

 3k – 1 3k – 1 3k – 1   1 1 1 
 k–1   
3 3k – 1 3k – 1   1 1 1 
Ak . A1 =  
 3
k–1
3 k – 1 3 k – 1   1 1 1 
Performing row by column multiplication on right side
3 k–1
+3 k–1
+3 k–1
3 k–1
+3 k–1
+3 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 
k–1
 k–1 
3 + 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 
⇒ Ak + 1 =  
k–1
3 + 3 k – 1 + 3 k – 1 3 k – 1 + 3 k – 1 + 3 k – 1 3 k – 1 + 3 k – 1 + 3 k – 1 

3 k 3k 3k 
 k 
3 3k 3k 
⇒ Ak + 1 =  
k
3 3k 3 k 
(... 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 + 3k – 1 = 3 . 3k – 1 (... x + x + x = 3x)
= 31 . 3k – 1 = 31 + k – 1 = 3k)
∴ Eqn. (ii) is true for n = k + 1 (... on putting n = k + 1 in (ii),
we get the above equation)
i.e., P(k + 1) is true
∴ P(n) i.e., eqn. (ii) is true for all natural n by P.M.I.
3 – 4 1 + 2 n – 4n 
3. If A = 
1 – 1  , then prove that An =  n 1 – 2 n where
  
n is any positive integer.
Sol. We prove the result by mathematical induction.
1 + 2n – 4n 
Step I. When n = 1, An = 
1 – 2n
...(i)
 n
1 + 2 –4
⇒ A1 = 
 1 1 – 2
3 − 4 
or A =   which is true. ⇒ The result is true for n =1.
1 − 1 
Step II. Suppose that equation (i) is true for n = k,
1 + 2k – 4k 
i.e., let Ak =  k 1 – 2 k ...(ii)

Step III. To prove that the result is true for n = k + 1, we have
to show that
(Putting n = k + 1 in (i))
1 + 2( k + 1) – 4( k + 1)  3 + 2 k − 4 − 4 k
Ak + 1
= 
− 1 − 2 k 
= 
1 – 2( k + 1)
...(iii)
 ( k + 1)  k + 1
1 + 2k – 4k  3 − 4
Now Ak + 1
= AkA =  [Using (ii)]
 k 1 – 2 k 1
 − 1 

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Performing row by column multiplication,

3 + 6k − 4 k − 4 − 8k + 4 k 3 + 2k − 4 − 4 k
=   = 
 3k + 1 − 2k − 4 k − 1 + 2k  1+ k − 1 − 2k 
which is the same as (iii).
⇒ The result is true for n = k + 1.
Hence, by the principle of mathematical induction, the result is
true for all positive integers n.
4. If A and B are symmetric matrices, prove that AB – BA is a
skew symmetric matrix.
Sol. A and B are symmetric matrices
⇒ A′ = A and B′ = B ...(i)
Now (AB – BA)′ = (AB)′ – (BA)′ [... (P – Q)′ = P′ – Q′]
= B′A′ – A′B′ [Reversal Law]
= BA – AB [Using (i)]
= – (AB – BA)
∴ (AB – BA) is a skew symmetric matrix.
5. Show that the matrix B′′ AB is symmetric or skew
symmetric according as A is symmetric or skew symmetric.
Sol. Now, (B′AB)′ = [B′(AB)]′
= (AB)′(B′)′ [... (CD)′ = D′C′]
or (B′AB)′ = B′A′B ...(i) [... (CD)′ = D′C′]
Case I. A is a symmetric matrix
∴ A′ = A
Putting A′ = A in equation (i), (B′AB)′ = B′AB
∴ B′AB is a symmetric matrix.
Case II. A is a skew symmetric matrix.
∴ A′ = – A
Putting A′ = – A in equation (i), (B′ AB)′ = B′ (–A) B = – B′ AB
∴ B′AB is a skew symmetric matrix.
6. Find the values of x, y, z if the matrix
0 2y z
 – z satisfies the equation A′′A = I.
A = x y
 x –y z
0 2y z
 – z .
Sol. Given: A =  x y
 x – y z
0 2y z ′ 0 x x
 – z = 2 y
Therefore, A′ =  x y
 y – y
 x –y z  z –z z
∴ A′A = I (given)
 0 x x   0 2y z  1 0 0
 2y – y   x – z  = 0 0
⇒  y  y 1
 z –z z   x – y z  0 0 1 

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(Here I is I3 because) matrices A and A′ are matrices of order

3 × 3)
0 + x2 + x2 0 + xy − xy 0 − xz + xz  1 0 0
  0
⇒ 0 + xy − xy 4y + y + y
2 2 2
2 yz − yz − yz =  1 0
 0 − zx + zx 2 yz − yz − yz  0 0 1 
 z2 + z2 + z2 
 2 x2 0 0  1 0 0
  
⇒  0 6 y2 0  = 0 1 0
 0 0  0 0 1 
 3z2 
Equating corresponding entries, we have
2x2 = 1, 6y2 = 1, 3z2 = 1
1 1 1
⇒ x2 = , y2 = , z2 =
2 6 3
1 1 1
⇒ x = ± , y = ± , z = ±
2 6 3
1 1 1
∴ x = ± , y = ± , z = ± .
2 6 3
1 2 0 0
 1   2
7. For what value of x, [1 2 1]  2 0   = 0?
1 0 2  x 
2 10  0
   2
Sol. Given: [ 1 2 1 ]  2
0 1    = 0
0 12   x 
↓ ↓ ↓
Orders 1 × 3 3 × 3 3 × 1
Multiplying first matrix with second matrix.
0
⇒ [1 + 4 + 1 2 + 0 + 0 0 + 2 + 2]  2  = 0
 x 
 0 
 
⇒ [ 6 2 4 ]  2  = 0
 x 
↓ ↓
1 × 3 3 × 1
⇒ [0 + 4 + 4x]1 × 1 = 0 = [0]1 × 1
Equating corresponding entries 0 + 4 + 4x = 0 ⇒ 4x = – 4
−4
⇒ x = = – 1.
4
8. If A = 
3 1
, show that A2 – 5A + 7I = 0.
 1
– 2
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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 3 1
Sol. Given: A = 
– 1 2
 3 1  3 1   9−1 3 + 2  8 5
∴A2 = A . A =  =
− 1 + 4  − 5 3
  –1 =
 – 1 2   2   − 3 − 2
L.H.S. = A2 – 5A + 7I = A2 – 5A + 7I2
[ .. A is 2 × 2, therefore I is I2]
.

 8 5  3 1 1 0
=   – 5   + 7  
− 5 3  – 1 2  0 1
 8 5 15 5  7 0  8 − 15 5 − 5 7 0
=  –  −5 10 +   =  − 5 + 5 3 − 10 + 0 7
 − 5 3    0 7    
− 7 0 7 0  − 7 + 7 0 + 0  0 0 
=  +  =   = 0 0 = 0 = R.H.S.
 0 − 7 0 7  0 + 0 − 7 + 7  
1 0 2  x
 1   4
9. Find x, if [x – 5 – 1]  0 2   = 0.
 2 0 3   1 

1  x
0 2 
Sol. Given: [ x – 5 – 1 ]  0 4 = 0
2 1 

 
 2  1 
0 3 
↓ ↓ ↓
order 1 × 3 order 3 × 3 order 3 × 1
Multiplying first matrix with second matrix
 x
 
[ x – 0 – 2 0 – 10 – 0 2x – 5 – 3 ]  4  = 0
1 
 x
⇒ [ x – 2 – 10 2x – 8 ]  4 
 1 
↓ ↓
order 1 × 3 order 3 × 1
⇒ [(x – 2)x – 10(4) + (2x – 8)1] = 0
⇒ [x2 – 2x – 40 + 2x – 8] = 0 ⇒ [x2 – 48]1 × 1 = [0]1 × 1
Equating corresponding entries, x2 – 48 = 0

⇒ x2 = 48 ⇒ x = ± 48 = ± 16 × 3 = ± 4 3 .
10. A manufacturer produces three products x, y, z which he
sells in two markets. Annual sales are indicated below:
Market Products
I 10,000 2,000 18,000
II 6,000 20,000 8,000

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(a) If unit sale prices of x, y and z are ` 2.50, ` 1.50 and

` 1.00, respectively, find the total revenue in each
market with the help of matrix algebra.
(b) If the unit costs of the above three commodities
are ` 2.00, ` 1.00 and 50 paise respectivley. Find the gross
profit.
Sol. The matrix showing the production of the three items in market I
and II can be shown by a 2 × 3 matrix.
Let A be this matrix, then
x y z
I 10, 000 2, 000 18, 000
A=
II  6, 000 20, 000 8, 000  2 × 3
(a) Let B be the column matrix representing sale price of each
unit of products x, y, z.
2.5
 
Then B = 1.5 
 1 
3×1
We know that revenue (= sale price × number of items sold)
In matrix form,
[Revenue matrix]2 × 1 = A2 × 3 × B3 × 1
 Revenue from Market I 
⇒  
Revenue from Market II
2.5
10, 000 2, 000 18, 000 1.5 
= 
 6, 000 20, 000 8, 000  2 × 3  
 1 
3×1

25, 000 + 3, 000 + 18, 000 46,000

=   =  
15, 000 + 30, 000 + 8, 000 2 × 1 53,000
Equating corresponding entries, we have the revenue collected
by sale of all items in Market I = ` 46,000 and the revenue
collected by sale of all items in Market II = ` 53,000.
(b) Let the cost matrix showing the cost of each unit of products
x, y, z be given by the column matrix C (say)
 2 
C =  1 
0.5
3×1
Thus, the total cost of three items for each market is given
by: (In general form)
[Cost matrix] = AC
 2 
10, 000 2, 000 18, 000  1 
=  
 6, 000 20, 000 8, 000  2 × 3  
3×10.5

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 Class 12 Chapter 3 - Matrices

 20, 000 + 2, 000 + 9, 000  31,000

=  =  
12, 000 + 20, 000 + 4, 000 2 × 1 36,000
∴ The profit collected in two markets is given in matrix form as
Profit matrix = Revenue matrix – Cost matrix
46,000
– 
31,000
= 
15,000
=    
53,000 36,000 17,000
Hence, the gross profit in both the markets
= ` 15,000 + ` 17,000 = ` 32,000.
11. Find the matrix X so that
1 2 3 – 7 –8 – 9
X 
6
= 
6
.
4 5  2 4
1 2 3 – 7 –8 – 9
= 
4 6 6
Sol. Given: X ...(i)
 5  2 4
↓ ↓ ↓
order order order 2 × 3
m × n (say) 2 × 3

∴ n = 2 (because numbers of columns in pre-matrix of product

must be equal to number of rows in post matrix)
and so L.H.S. matrix is of order m × 3. Again R.H.S. matrix is of
order 2 × 3. Therefore, m = 2 (By definition of equal matrices)
∴ Therefore, matrix X is of order m × n i.e., 2 × 2.
 a b
Let X =   ...(ii)
 c d
Putting this value of X in eqn. (i),
 a b  1 2 3 − 7 −8 − 9
 c = 
 d   4 5 6   2 4 6
 a + 4b 2a + 5b 3a + 6b − 7 −8 − 9
⇒  c + 4d 2c + 5d  = 
 3c + 6d  2 4 6
Equating corresponding entries, we have
a + 4b = – 7 ...(iii) c + 4d = 2 ...(vi)
2a + 5b = – 8 ...(iv) 2c + 5d = 4 ...(vii)
3a + 6b = – 9 ...(v) 3c + 6d = 6 ...(viii)
Let us solve eqns. (iii) and (iv) for a and b
Eqn. (iii) × 2 gives 2a + 8b = – 14
Eqn. (iv) is 2a + 5b = – 8
– – +
6
Subtracting, 3b = – 6 ⇒ b = – = – 2
3
Putting b = – 2 in (iii), a – 8 = – 7 ⇒ a = – 7 + 8 = 1
Putting a = 1 and b = – 2 in eqn. (v), 3 – 12 = – 9

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⇒ – 9 = – 9 which is true. ∴ values of a = 1 and b = – 2 exist.

Now let us solve eqns. (vi) and (vii) for c and d.
Eqn. (vi) × 2 gives 2c + 8d = 4
Eqn. (vii) is 2c + 5d = 4
– – –
0
Subtracting, 3d = 0 ⇒ d = = 0
3
Putting d = 0 in (vi), c = 2
Putting c = 2 and d = 0 in (viii), 6 = 6 which is true.
∴ values of c = 2 and d = 0 exist.
1 − 2
Putting these values of a, b, c, d in (ii), matrix X = 
0
.
2
12. If A and B are square matrices of the same order such that
AB = BA, then prove by induction that A Bn = BnA. Further,
prove that (AB)n = AnBn for all n ∈ N.
Sol. Given: AB = BA ...(i)
Let P(n): ABn = BnA ...(ii)
We have been asked to prove eqn. (ii) by P.M.I.
(Even if not asked, we would have proved it by P.M.I.)
Step I. For n = 1. From eqn. (ii), P(1) : becomes AB = BA
which is given to be true by eqn. (i)
∴ P(1) is true i.e., eqn. (ii) is true for n = 1
Step II. Let P(k) be true i.e., eqn. (ii) is true for n = k.
∴ Putting n = k in (ii), we have ABk = BkA ...(iii)
Step III. Post-multiplying both sides of eqn. (iii) by B,
We have ABkB = BkAB
or A . Bk + 1 = Bk AB
Putting AB = BA from (i) in R.H.S., we have
A Bk + 1 = BkBA ⇒ ABk + 1 = Bk + 1 A
∴ Eqn. (ii) is true for n = k + 1
(... On putting n = k + 1 in (ii), we get the above result)
∴ P(k + 1) is true.
∴ P(n) i.e., eqn. (ii) is true for all n ∈ N by P.M.I.
α β
13. If A =   is such that A2 = I; then
 γ – α 
(A) 1 + α 2 + βγ = 0 (B) 1 – α 2 + βγ = 0
(C) 1 – α – βγ = 0
2
(D) 1 + α 2 – βγ = 0.
α β
Sol. Given: A =  and A2 = I (= I2) | ... A is 2 × 2
γ – α 
α β  α β  1 0
⇒ A . A = I2 ⇒    γ  =  0 1
 γ – α   – α   

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 α 2 + βγ αβ − αβ  1 0
⇒  2
=  
αγ − γα βγ + α   0 1
 α 2 + βγ 0  1 0
⇒   =  
 0 α + βγ 
2
 0 1
Equating corresponding entries, we have α2 + βγ = 1
∴ 1 – α2 – βγ = 0.
Therefore, option (C) is the correct answer.
14. If the matrix A is both symmetric and skew symmetric,
then
(A) A is a diagonal matrix (B) A is a zero matrix
(C) A is a square matrix (D) None of these.
Sol. Because A is symmetric, therefore A′ = A ...(i)
Because A is skew-symmetric, therefore A′ = – A ...(ii)
Putting A′ = A from (i) in (ii), A = – A ⇒ A + A = 0
0
⇒ 2A = 0 ⇒ A = = 0
2
i.e., A is a zero matrix. ∴ Option (B) is correct answer.
Note: It may be noted that if A and B are square matrices of
the same order, then
(A + B)2 ≠ A2 + B2 + 2AB always.
But if matrices A and B commute i.e., AB = BA, then
(A + B)2 = A2 + B2 + 2AB and also (A + B)3 = A3 + B3 + 3AB(A + B)
15. If A is a square matrix such that A2 = A, then (I + A)3 – 7A
is equal to
(A) A (B) I – A (C) I (D) 3A.
Sol. Given: A2 = A ...(i)
Multiplying both sides by A, A3 = A2 = A (By (i)) ...(ii)
The given expression = (I + A)3 – 7A
= I3 + A3 + 3IA(I + A) – 7A
[We know that AI = IA, therefore using above note we can
apply (A + B)3 = A3 + B3 + 3AB(A + B)]
= I3 + A3 + 3I2A + 3IA2 – 7A
Putting A = A from (i) and A3 = A from (ii) and
2

I3 = I and I2 = I (Because In = I always for all n ∈ N)

= I + A + 3IA + 3IA – 7A
= I + A + 3A + 3A – 7A (... AI = A and IA = A)
= I + 7A – 7A = I
Hence, option (C) is the correct answer.

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Exercise 4.1

2 4
1.
–5 –1
2 4
Sol. Determinant = 2(– 1) – 4(– 5)
−5 −1
= – 2 + 20 = 18.
cos θ – sin θ x2 – x + 1 x –1
2. (i) (ii)
sin θ cos θ x +1 x +1
cos θ – sin θ
Sol. (i) Determinant = cos θ (cos θ)
sin θ cos θ – (–sin θ) (sin θ)

= cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 1.
x2 – x + 1 x–1
(ii) = (x2 – x + 1)(x + 1)
x+1 x+1 – (x + 1)(x – 1)
= (x3 + 1) – (x2 – 1) = x3 – x2 + 2.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 2
3. If A =  , then show that | 2A | = 4 | A |.
4 2
1 2
A= 
2
Sol. Given: Matrix
4
1 2 2 × 1 2 × 2 2 4
∴ 2A = 2  =   = 
4

2 2 × 4 2 × 2 8 4
2 4
∴ L.H.S. = | 2A | = = 2(4) – 4(8) = 8 – 32 = – 24
8 4
...(i)
1 2
R.H.S. = 4 | A | = 4 = 4(2 – 8) = 4(– 6) = – 24
4 2
...(ii)
From (i) and (ii), we have L.H.S. = R.H.S.
1 0 1
4. If A =  0 1 2 , then show that | 3A | = 27 | A |.

 0 0 4

1 0 1 3 0 3
   6
Sol. 3A = 3 0 1 2  = 0 3
0 0 4  0 0 12

3 0 3
∴ L.H.S. = | 3A | = 0 3 6
0 0 12
Expanding along first column = 3[36 – 0] = 3 × 36 = 108.
1 0 1
Also R.H.S. = 27 | A | = 27 0 1 2
0 0 4
Expanding along first column
(... There are two zeros in it)
= 27 [1(4 – 0)] = 27 × 4
= 108 = L.H.S. ∴ | 3A | = 27 | A |.
5. Evaluate the determinants:
3 –1 –2 3 –4 5
(i) 0 0 –1 (ii) 1 1 –2
3 –5 0 2 3 1
0 1 2 2 –1 –2
(iii) –1 0 –3 (iv) 0 2 –1
–2 3 0 3 –5 0

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

3 –1 –2
Sol. (i) Given determinant is 0 0 – 1 and is of order 3.
3 –5 0
Expanding along first row
0 −1 0 −1 0 0
= 3 – (– 1) + (– 2)
−5 0 3 0 3 −5
= 3(0 – 5) + 1(0 – (– 3)) – 2(0 – 0)
= – 15 + 3 – 0 = – 12.
3 −4 5
(ii) Given determinant is 1 1 − 2 and is of order 3.
2 3 1
Expanding along first row
1 −2 1 −2 1 1
= 3 – (– 4) + 5
3 1 2 1 2 3
= 3(1 + 6) + 4(1 – (– 4)) + 5(3 – 2)
= 3(7) + 4(5) + 5(1) = 21 + 20 + 5 = 46.
0 1 2
(iii) Given determinant is −1 0 − 3 and is of order 3.
−2 3 0
Expanding along first row
0 −3 −1 −3 −1 0
= 0 – 1 + 2
3 0 −2 0 −2 3
= 0(0 + 9) – (0 – 6) + 2(– 3 – 0) = 0 + 6 – 6 = 0.
2 −1 −2
(iv) Given determinant is 0 2 − 1 and is of order 3.
3 −5 0
Expanding along first row
2 −1 0 −1 0 2
= 2 – (– 1) + (– 2)
−5 0 3 0 3 −5
= 2(0 – 5) + (0 + 3) – 2(0 – 6) = – 10 + 3 + 12 = 5.
1 1 – 2
6. If A = 2 1 – 3  , find | A |.

 5 4 – 9 

1 1 – 2  1 1 –2
Sol. Matrix A = 2 1 – 3 ∴ Det A i.e., | A | = 2 1 –3
 
5 4 – 9 5 4 –9
Expanding along first row

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 −3 2 −3 2 1
= 1 – 1 + (– 2)
4 −9 5 −9 5 4
= (– 9 – (– 12)) – (– 18 – (– 15)) – 2 (8 – 5)
= – 9 + 12 – (– 18 + 15) – 2(3) = 3 – (– 3) – 6
= 3 + 3 – 6 = 0
Note. Such a matrix A for which | A | = 0 is called a singular
matrix.
7. Find values of x, if
2 4 2x 4 2 3 x 3
(i) = 6 x (ii) =
5 1 4 5 2x 5
2 4 2x 4
Sol. (i) Given: =
5 1 6 x
⇒ 2 – 20 = 2x2 – 24 ⇒ – 18 = 2x2 – 24
⇒ – 2x2 = – 24 + 18 = – 6
Dividing by – 2, x2 = 3
Taking square roots, x = ± 3.
2 3 x 3
(ii) Given: =
4 5 2x 5
⇒ 10 – 12 = 5x – 6x ⇒ – 2 = – x
Dividing by – 1, 2 = x i.e., x = 2.
x 2 6 2
8. If =
18 x 18 6 , then x is equal to
(A) 6 (B) ± 6 (C) – 6 (D) 0.
x 2 6 2
Sol. Given: =
18 x 18 6
⇒ x2 – 36 = 36 – 36 ⇒ x2 – 36 = 0 ⇒ x2 = 36
Taking square roots, x = ± 6. ∴Option (B) is the correct answer.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Exercise 4.2
Using the properties of determinants and without expanding in
Exercises 1 to 5, prove that:
x a x+a
1. y b y+b = 0.
z c z+c
x a x+a
Sol. On y b y + b , operate C1 → C1 + C2
z c z+c

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

x+a a x+a
= y+b b y+b = 0. (... C1 and C3 are identical)
z+c c z+c
a–b b–c c–a
2. b–c c–a a–b = 0.
c–a a–b b–c
a–b b– c c–a
Sol. On b– c c–a a – b , operate C1 → C1 + C2 + C3
c–a a–b b– c
a–b+b− c+ c− a b– c c– a 0 b– c c– a
= b – c + c − a + a − b c – a a – b = 0 c – a a – b = 0.
c– a+ a−b+b−c a–b b– c 0 a–b b– c
(... All entries of one column here first are zero)
Note: The reader can do the above problem by operating
R1 → R1 + R2 + R3 also.
2 7 65
3. 3 8 75 = 0.
5 9 86
2 7 65 2 7 63
Sol. On 3 8 75 , operate C3 → C3 – C1 = 3 8 72
5 9 86 5 9 81
2 7 7
Taking 9 common from third column = 9 3 8 8 = 9(0) = 0.
5 9 9
[Because two columns (one and three) are identical]
1 bc a(b + c)
4. 1 ca b(c + a) = 0
1 ab c(a + b)
1 bc a(b + c) 1 bc ab + ac
Sol. The given determinant is 1 ca b(c + a) = 1 ca bc + ba
1 ab c(a + b) 1 ab ac + bc
1 bc ab + bc + ac
Operate C3 → C3 + C2, = 1 ca ab + bc + ac
1 ab ab + bc + ac
Taking (ab + bc + ac) common from C3,
1 bc 1
= (ab + bc + ac) 1 ca 1
1 ab 1
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

= (ab + bc + ac) 0 = 0. (... C1 and C3 are identical)

b+c q+r y+z a p x
5. c+a r+ p z+ x = 2 b q y .
a+b p+q x+y c r z
b+ c q+r y+ z
Sol. L.H.S. = c+a r+ p z+ x
a+b p+q x+ y
Operate R1 → R1 + R2 + R3
b+ c+ c+ a+ a+b q+r+r+ p+ p+ q y+ z+ z+ x+ x+ y
= c+a r+ p z+ x
a+b p+ q x+ y
2(a + b + c) 2( p + q + r) 2( x + y + z)
= c+a r+ p z+ x
a+b p+ q x+ y
Taking 2 common from R1

a+b+ c p+ q+r x+ y+ z
= 2 c+a r+ p z+ x
a+b p+ q x+ y

Operate R1 → R1 – R2 (to get single letter entries as required in

the determinant on R.H.S.)
b q y
= 2 c + a r + p z + x
a+b p+q x+ y
Now operate R 3 → R 3 – R 1 (to get single letter entries as
required in the determinant on R.H.S.)
b q y
= 2 c + a r + p z + x
a p x
Now operate R2 → R2 – R3 (objective being same as in the above
two operations)
b q y
= 2 c r z
a p x
b q y
Interchanging R2 and R3, = – 2 a p x
c r z
Interchanging R1 and R2,

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

a p x a p x
= – (– 2) b q y = 2 b q y = R.H.S.
c r z c r z
By using properties of determinants, in Exercise 6 to 14,
show that:
0 a –b
6. –a 0 –c = 0.
b c 0
0 a –b
Sol. Let ∆ = – a 0 – c ...(i)
b c 0
Taking (–1) common from each row, we have

0 −a b
∆ = (– 1) 3 a 0 c
–b −c 0
Interchanging rows and columns in the determinant on R.H.S.,
0 a −b
∆ = – −a 0 −c (... (– 1)3 = – 1)
b c 0
⇒ ∆ = – ∆ (By (i))
Shifting – ∆ from R.H.S. to L.H.S., ∆ + ∆ = 0 or 2∆ = 0
0
∴ ∆ = = 0.
2
Note. 1. We can also do this question by taking (– 1) common
from each column.
2. When you are asked to prove that a determinant is equal to
zero or two determinants are equal, then it is to be proved so
only without expanding.
3. It may be remarked that the determinant of Q. No. 6 above is
determinant of a skew symmetric matrix of order 3.
– a2 ab ac
7. ba –b 2
bc = 4a2b2c2.
ca cb – c2

− a2 ab ac
Sol. L.H.S. = ba − b2 bc
ca cb − c2
Taking a, b, c common from R1, R2, R3 respectively,

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

–a b c
= abc a –b c
a b –c
Operate R1 → R1 + R2 (to create two zeros in a line (here first
row))
2c 0 0
= abc ca –b
–c a b
Expanding along first row (... There are two zeros in it)

a −b
= abc . 2c = abc . 2c (ab + ab)
a b
= abc . 2c . 2ab = 4a2b2c2 = R.H.S.
Note. Whenever we are asked to find the value of a determinant
by using “Properties of Determinants”, we must create two zeros
in a line (Row or Column).

1 a a2
8. (i) 1 b b2 = (a – b)(b – c)(c – a)
1 c c2

1 1 1
(ii) a b c = (a – b)(b – c)(c – a)(a + b + c).
a3 b3 c3

1 a a2
Sol. (i) L.H.S. = 1 b b2
1 c c2
Operating R2 → R2 – R1 and R3 → R3 – R1

1 a a2 1 a a2
= 1 b b2 = 0 b−a b2 − a2
1 c c2 0 c−a c 2 − a2

Expanding along first column

b−a b2 − a2 (b − a) (b − a) (b + a)
= 1 =
c−a c −a2 2 (c − a) (c − a) (c + a)

Taking out (b – a) common from first row and (c – a)

common from second row

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 b+ a
= (b – a)(c – a)
1 c+a
= (b – a)(c – a)(c + a – b – a) = (b – a)(c – a)(c – b)
= – (a – b)(c – a)(– (b – c)) = (a – b)(b – c)(c – a).
Remark. For expanding a determinant of order 3 we should
make all entries except one entry of a row or column as zeros
(i.e., we should make two entries as zeros) and then expand
the determinant along this row or column. For doing so, the
ideal situation is that all entries of a row or column are 1
each.
If each entry of a column is 1, then, to create two zeros,
subtract first row from each of the remaining two rows.
If each entry of a row is 1, then to create two zeros, subtract
first column from each of the remaining two columns.
1 1 1
(ii) L.H.S. = a b c
a3 b3 c3
Here all entries of a row are 1 each.
So operate C2 → C2 – C1, C3 → C3 – C1 (to creat two zeros in
a line (here first row))
1 0 0
= a b−a c−a
a3 b3 − a3 c 3 − a3
b−a c−a
Expanding along first row, = 1
b −a
3 3
c − a3
3

(Forming factors)
(b − a) (c − a)
=
(b − a)(b + a + ab)
2 2
(c − a)(c2 + a2 + ac)
Taking (b – a) common from C1 and (c – a) common from C2,
1 1
= (b – a)(c – a)
b + a + ab2
c + a2 + ac
2 2

= (b – a)(c – a) (c + a + ac – b – a2 – ab)
22 2

= (b – a)(c – a)(c2 – b2 + ac – ab)

= (b – a)(c – a) [(c – b)(c + b) + a(c – b)]
= (b – a)(c – a)(c – b)(c + b + a)
= – (a – b(c – a) [– (b – c)] (a + b + c)
= (a – b)(b – c)(c – a)(a + b + c) = R.H.S.

x x2 yz
2
9. y y zx = (x – y)(y – z)(z – x)(xy + yz + zx).
z z2 xy

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

x x2 yz
Sol. L.H.S. = y y2 zx
z z2 xy

Multiplying R1, R2, R3 by x, y, z respectively (to make each entry

of third column same here (xyz))

x2 x3 xyz
1 y2 y3 xyz
=
xyz
z2 z3 xyz

x2 x3 1 x2 x3 1
xyz y2 y3
Taking xyz common from C3, = 1 = y2 y3 1
xyz 2
z z3 1 z2 z3 1

Now all entries of a column are same. So operate R2 → R2 – R1,

R3 → R3 – R1 to create two zeros in a column.

x2 x3 1
= y −x
2 2
y − x3
3
0
z2 − x 2 z3 − x 3 0

y2 − x 2 y3 − x 3
Expanding along third column = 1
z2 − x 2 z3 − x 3

( y − x)( y + x) ( y − x)( y2 + x2 + xy)

(Forming factors) =
( z − x)( z + x) ( z − x)( z2 + x 2 + zx)
Taking (y – x) common from R1 and (z – x) common from R2

y+ x y2 + x2 + xy
= ( y – x)(z – x)
z+ x z2 + x2 + zx

= ( y – x)(z – x) [( y + x)(z2 + x2 + zx) – (z + x)(y2 + x2 + xy)]

= ( y – x)(z – x) [ yz2 + yx2 + xyz + xz2 + x3 + x2z
– zy2 – zx2 – xyz – xy2 – x3 – x2y]
= ( y – x)(z – x) [ yz – zy + xz – xy2]
2 2 2

= ( y – x)(z – x) [ yz(z – y) + x(z2 – y2)]

= ( y – x)(z – x) [ yz(z – y) + x(z – y)(z + y)]
= ( y – x)(z – x)(z – y) [ yz + x(z + y)]
= – (x – y)(z – x) [– ( y – z)] (yz + xz + xy)
= (x – y)( y – z)(z – x)(xy + yz + zx) = R.H.S.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

x+4 2x 2x
10. (i) 2x x+4 2x = (5x + 4)(4 – x)2.
2x 2x x+4
y+k y y
(ii) y y+k y = k2(3y + k).
y y y+k

x+4 2x 2x
Sol. (i) L.H.S. = 2x x+4 2x
2x 2x x+4

Here sum of entries of each column is same (= 5x + 4), so

let us operate R1 → R1 + R2 + R3 to make all entries of
first row equal (= 5x + 4).
5x + 4 5x + 4 5x + 4
= 2x x+4 2x
2x 2x x+4
Taking (5x + 4) common from R1,
1 1 1
= (5x + 4) 2x x+4 2x
2x 2x x+4
Now each entry of one (here first) row is 1, so let us
operate C 2 → C 2 – C 1 and C 3 → C 3 – C 1 to create two
zeros in a zero.
1 0 0
= (5x + 4) 2x 4−x 0
2x 0 4−x
Expanding along first row
4−x 0
= (5x + 4) . 1
0 4−x
= (5x + 4)(4 – x)2 = R.H.S.
Remark. We could also start here by operating
C1 → C1 + C2 + C3.
y+k y y
(ii) L.H.S. = y y+k y
y y y+k
Here sum of entries of each row is same (= 3y + k), so let
us operate C1 → C1 + C2 + C3 to make all entries of first
column equal (= 3y + k)

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

3y + k y y
= 3y + k y+k y
3y + k y y+k
Taking (3y + k) common from C1,
1 y y
= (3y + k) 1 y+k y
1 y y+k
Now each entry of one (here first) column is 1, so let us
operate R 2 → R 2 – R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – R 1 to create two
zeros in a column,
1 y y
= (3y + k) 0 k 0
0 0 k

k 0
Expanding along first column, = (3y + k) . 1
0 k
= (3y + k)k2 = k2(3y + k) = R.H.S.
Remark. We could also start here by operating
R1 → R1 + R2 + R3.
a–b–c 2a 2a
11. (i) 2b b–c–a 2b = (a + b + c)3.
2c 2c c–a–b
x + y + 2z x y
(ii) z y + z + 2x y = 2(x + y + z)3.
z x z + x + 2y
a–b–c 2a 2a
Sol. (i) L.H.S. = 2b b– c– a 2b
2c 2c c–a–b
Here sum of entries of each column is same
(= a + b + c), so let us operate R 1 → R 1 + R 2 + R 3 to
make all entries of first row equal (= a + b + c)
a+b+ c a+b+ c a+b+ c
= 2b b– c– a 2b
2c 2c c–a–b
Taking (a + b + c) common from R1,
1 1 1
= (a + b + c) 2b b– c– a 2b
2c 2c c–a–b
Now each entry of one (here first) row is 1, so let us

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

operate C 2 → C 2 – C 1 and C 3 → C 3 – C 1 to create two

zeros in a row,
1 0 0
= (a + b + c) 2b −b– c– a 0
2c 0 −c–a–b
Expanding along first row
−b− c− a 0
= (a + b + c) . 1 .
0 −c−a−b
= (a + b + c) [(– b – c – a) (– c – a – b)]
= (a + b + c) (–) (b + c + a) (–) (c + a + b)
= (a + b + c)3 = R.H.S.
Remark. Here we can’t operate C1 → C1 + C2 + C3 because
sum of entries of each row is not same.
x + y + 2z x y
(ii) L.H.S. = z y + z + 2 x y
z x z + x + 2y
Here sum of entries of each row is same (= 2x + 2y + 2z =
2(x + y + z)), so let us operate C 1 → C 1 + C 2 + C 3 to
make all entries of first column equal (= 2(x + y + z))
2( x + y + z) x y
= 2( x + y + z) y + z + 2 x y
2( x + y + z) x z + x + 2y
Taking 2(x + y + z) common from C1,
1 x y
= 2(x + y + z) 1 y + z + 2x y
1 x z + x + 2y
Now each entry of one (here first) column is 1, so let us
operate R 2 → R 2 – R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – R 1 to create two
zeros in a column
1 x y
= 2(x + y + z) 0 x+ y+ z 0
0 0 x+ y+ z
Expanding along first column
x+ y+ z 0
= 2(x + y + z) . 1 .
0 x+ y+ z
= 2(x + y + z) [(x + y + z)2 – 0]
= 2(x + y + z)3 = R.H.S.
1 x x2
12. x2 1 x = (1 – x3)2.
x x2 1

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 x x2
2
Sol. L.H.S. = x 1 x
x x2 1
Here sum of entries of each column is same (= 1 + x + x2), so let
us operate R1 → R1 + R2 + R3 to make all entries of first row
equal (= 1 + x + x2)
1 + x + x2 1 + x + x2 1 + x + x2
2
= x 1 x
x x2 1
Taking (1 + x + x2) common from R1,
1 1 1
2
= (1 + x + x2) x 1 x
2
x x 1
Now each entry of one (here first) row is 1, so let us operate
C2 → C2 – C1 and C3 → C3 – C1 to create two zeros in a row.
1 0 0
= (1 + x + x ) 2 x2 1 − x2 x − x2
x x2 − x 1− x
Expanding along first row
1 − x2 x − x2
= (1 + x + x2) . 1
x −x
2 1− x

(1 − x)(1 + x) x(1 − x)
= (1 + x + x2)
− x(1 − x) (1 − x)
= (1 + x + x2) [(1 – x)2 (1 + x) + x2(1 – x)2]
= (1 + x + x2) (1 – x)2 (1 + x + x2) = (1 + x + x2)2 (1 – x)2
= [(1 + x + x2) (1 – x)]2 (... A2B2 = (AB)2)
2 2 3 2 3 2
= (1 – x + x – x + x – x ) = (1 – x ) = R.H.S.
Remark. For the above question, we could also operate
C1 → C1 + C2 + C3 because sum of entries of each row is also
same and (= 1 + x + x2).
1 + a2 – b2 2ab – 2b
13. 2ab 1 – a2 + b2 2a = (1 + a2 + b2)3.
2b – 2a 1–a –b 2 2

Sol. Operating C1 → C1 – b C3,C2 → C2 + a C3 in L.H.S. as

suggested by the factor (1 + a2 + b2) in R.H.S.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 + a2 + b2 0 – 2b
L.H.S. = 0 1+ a + b2 2
2a
b(1 + a + b ) 2 2
– a(1 + a2 + b2 ) 1 – a2 – b2
[... 2b – b(1 – a2 – b2) = 2b – b + a2b + b3
= b + a2b + b3 = b(1 + a2 + b2)]
Taking out (1 + a2 + b2) common from C1 and C2
1 0 – 2b
2 2 2
= (1 + a + b ) 0 1 2a
b −a 1 – a2 – b2
Operating R3 → R3 – bR1 (to create another zero in first column)
1 0 – 2b
2 2 2 0 1 2a
= (1 + a + b )
0 −a 1 – a2 + b2
Expanding along C1
1 2a
= (1 + a2 + b2)2 . 1
1 − a2 + b2 −a
= (1 + a2 + b2)2 (1 – a2 + b2 + 2a2) = (1 + a2 + b2)3.

a2 + 1 ab ac
2
14. ab b +1 bc = 1 + a2 + b2 + c2.
ca cb 2
c +1
Sol. Multiplying C 1 , C 2 , C 3 by a, b, c respectively and in return
dividing the determinant by abc,

a(a2 + 1) ab2 ac2

1
∆ = a2b b(b2 + 1) bc2
abc
a2 c b2c c(c2 + 1)

Taking out a, b, c common from R1, R2, R3 respectively,

a2 + 1 b2 c2
abc
= a2 b2 + 1 c2 Operating C1 → C1 + C2 + C3
abc
a 2
b2
c +1
2

1 + a2 + b2 + c2 b2 c2
= 1 + a2 + b2 + c2 b2 + 1 c2
1 + a2 + b2 + c2 b2 c2 + 1

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Taking out (1 + a2 + b2 + c2) common from C1,

1 b2 c2
= (1 + a2 + b2 + c2) 1 b2 + 1 c2
1 b2
c +1
2

Operating R2 → R2 – R1, R3 → R3 – R1,

1 b2 c2
= (1 + a2 + b2 + c2) 0 1 0
0 0 1
Expanding along first column,
= (1 + a2 + b2 + c2) × 1 (1 – 0) = 1 + a2 + b2 + c2.
Choose the correct answer in Exercises 15 and 16:
15. Let A be a square matrix of order 3 × 3, then | kA | is equal
to
(A) k | A | (B) k2 | A |
(C) k | A |
3
(D) 3k | A | .

 a11 a12 a13 

 a23  be a square matrix of order 3 × 3.
Sol. Let A =  a21 a22 ...(i)
 a31 a32 a33 

∴ By definition of scalar multiplication of a matrix,

 ka11 ka12 ka13  ka11 ka12 ka13
kA =  ka21 ka22 ka23  ∴ | kA | = ka21 ka22 ka23
 
 ka31 ka32 ka33  ka31 ka32 ka33
Taking k common from each row,
a11 a12 a13
= k3 a21 a22 a23
a31 a32 a33
= k |A|
3
[By (i)]
Remark. In general, if A is a square matrix of order n × n; then
we can prove that | kA | = kn | A | .
∴ Option (C) is the correct answer.
16. Which of the following is correct:
(A) Determinant is a square matrix.
(B) Determinant is a number associated to a matrix.
(C) Determinant is a number associated to a square matrix.
(D) None of these.
Sol. Option (C) is the correct answer.
i.e., Determinant is a number associated to a square matrix.
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Exercise 4.3
1. Find the area of the triangle with vertices at the points
given in each of the following:
(i) (1, 0), (6, 0), (4, 3) (ii) (2, 7), (1, 1), (10, 8)
(iii) (– 2, – 3), (3, 2), (– 1, – 8).
Sol. (i) Area of the triangle having vertices at (1, 0), (6, 0), (4, 3)
x1 y1 1 1 0 1
1 1
= Modulus of x2 y2 1 = 6 0 1
2 2
x3 y3 1 4 3 1
Expanding along first row,
1
= [1(0 – 3) – 0(6 – 4) + 1(18 – 0)]
2
1
i.e., Area of triangle = modulus of (– 3 + 18)
2
15 15
= = sq. units
2 2
. .
( . Modulus of a positive number is number itself)
(ii) Area of the triangle having vertices at (2, 7), (1, 1), (10, 8).
x1 y1 1 2 7 1
1 1
= Modulus of x2 y2 1 = 1 1 1
2 2
x3 y3 1 10 8 1
Expanding along first row
1
= [2(1 – 8) – 7(1 – 10) + 1(8 – 10)]
2
1 1
= [2(– 7) – 7 (– 9) – 2] = (– 14 + 63 – 2)
2 2
1
= (63 – 16)
2
47 47
i.e., Area of triangle = = sq. units.
2 2
(... Modulus of a positive real number is number itself)
(iii) Area of the triangle having vertices at
(– 2, – 3), (3, 2), (– 1, – 8) is
x1 y1 1 −2 −3 1
1 1
Modulus of x2 y2 1 = 3 2 1
2 2
x3 y3 1 −1 −8 1
1
= [– 2(2 + 8) – (– 3) (3 + 1) + 1(– 24 + 2)]
2
1 1
= [– 2(10) + 3(4) – 22] = (– 20 + 12 – 22)
2 2

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 1
= (– 42 + 12) = (– 30) = – 15
2 2
∴ Area of triangle = Modulus of – 15 i.e., = | – 15|
= 15 sq. units
(... Modulus of a negative real number is negative of itself)
2. Show that the points A(a, b + c), B(b, c + a), C(c, a + b) are
collinear.
Sol. The given points are A(a, b + c), B(b, c + a), C(c, a + b).
x1 y1 1
1
∴ Area of triangle ABC is modulus of x2 y2 1
2
x3 y3 1
A
a b+ c 1
1 A
= b c+a 1
2 A
c a+b 1
Expanding along first row,
B A C
1
= [a(c + a – a – b) – (b + c)(b – c) + 1(b(a + b) – c(c + a))]
2
1
= [a(c – b) – (b2 – c2) + (ab + b2 – c2 – ac)]
2
1 1
= (ac – ab – b2 + c2 + ab + b2 – c2 – ac) = (0) = 0
2 2
i.e., Area of ∆ABC = 0
∴ Points A, B, C are collinear (See above figure).
3. Find values of k if area of triangle is 4 sq. units and
vertices are:
(i) (k, 0), (4, 0), (0, 2) (ii) (– 2, 0), (0, 4), (0, k).
Sol. (i) Given: Area of the triangle whose vertices are (k, 0), (4,
0), (0, 2) is 4 sq. units.
x1 y1 1
1
⇒ Modulus of x2 y2 1 = 4
2
x3 y3 1
k 0 1
1
⇒ Modulus of 4 0 1 = 4
2
0 2 1
1
Expanding along first row, { k(0 − 2) − 0 + 1(8 − 0)} = 4
2
1
⇒ (− 2 k + 8) = 4 ⇒ | – k + 4 | = 4
2
⇒ – k + 4 = ± 4
[... If x ∈ R and | x | = a where a ≥ 0, then x = ± a]
Taking positive sign, – k + 4 = 4
⇒ – k = 0 ⇒ k = 0
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Taking negative sign, – k + 4 = – 4

⇒ – k = – 8 ⇒ k = 8 Hence k = 0, k = 8.
(ii) Given: Area of the triangle whose vertices are (– 2, 0),
(0, 4), (0, k) is 4 sq. units.
x1 y1 1
1
⇒ Modulus of x2 y2 1 = 4
2
x3 y3 1
−2 0 1
1
⇒ Modulus of 0 4 1 = 4
2
0 k 1
1
Expanding along first row, { − 2(4 − k) − 0 + 1(0 − 0)} =4
2
1
⇒ (− 8 + 2 k) = 4 ⇒ | – 4 + k | = 4
2
⇒ – 4 + k = ± 4
(... If | x | = a where a ≥ 0, then x = ± a)
Taking positive sign, – 4 + k = 4 ⇒ k = 4 + 4 = 8
Taking negative sign, – 4 + k = – 4 ⇒ k = 0
Hence, k = 0, k = 8.
4. (i) Find the equation of the line joining (1, 2) and (3, 6)
using determinants.
(ii) Find the equation of the line joining (3, 1) and (9, 3)
using determinants.
Sol. (i) Let P(x, y) be any point on the line joining the points (1, 2)
and (3, 6).
∴ Three points are collinear.

P(x, y) (1, 2) P(x, y) (3, 6) P(x, y)

∴ Area of triangle that could be formed by them is zero.

x y 1  x1 y1 1 
1 1 
⇒ 1 2 1 = 0  2 2 y2 1 
x
2 
3 6 1  x3 y3 1 
Multiplying both sides by 2, and expanding the
determinant on left hand side along first row,
x(2 – 6) – y(1 – 3) + 1(6 – 6) = 0
⇒ – 4x + 2y = 0. Dividing by – 2, 2x – y = 0
or – y = – 2x i.e., y = 2x which is the required equation
of the line.
(ii) Let P(x, y) be any point on the line joining the points (3, 1)
and (9, 3).
∴ Three points are collinear.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

P(x, y) (3, 1) P(x, y) (9, 3) P(x, y)

∴ Area of triangle that could be formed by them is zero.
x y 1
1
⇒ 3 1 1 = 0
2
9 3 1
Multiplying both sides by 2 and expanding the determinant
on left hand side along first row,
x(1 – 3) – y(3 – 9) + 1(9 – 9) = 0
⇒ – 2x + 6y = 0
Dividing by – 2, x – 3y = 0 which is the required equation
of the line.
5. If area of triangle is 35 sq. units with vertices (2, – 6),
(5, 4) and (k, 4). Then k is
(A) 12 (B) – 2 (C) – 12, – 2 (D) 12, – 2.
Sol. Given: Area of triangle having vertices (2, – 6), (5, 4) and (k, 4) is
35 sq. units.
 x1 y1 1 2 −6 1 
∴ Modulus of   = 35
1 1
x2 y2 1 = 5 4 1 (Given)
2 2 
 x3 y3 1 k 4 1 
Expanding along first row,
1
{2(4 − 4) − (− 6) (5 − k) + 1(20 − 4 k)} = 35
2
1
⇒ {0 + 30 − 6 k + 20 − 4 k} = 35
2
1
⇒ (50 − 10 k) = 35 ⇒ | 25 – 5k | = 35
2
⇒ 25 – 5k = ± 35
[... If | x | = a where a ≥ 0, then x = ± a]
Taking positive sign, 25 – 5k = 35 ⇒ – 5k = 10
− 10
⇒ k = = – 2
5
Taking negative sign, 25 – 5k = – 35
⇒ – 5k = – 60 ⇒ k = 12
Thus, k = 12, – 2 ∴ Option (D) is the correct answer.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Exercise 4.4
Note. Minor (M ij ) and Cofactor (A ij ) of an element a ij of a
determinant ∆ are defined not for the value of the element but
for (i, j)th position of the element.
Def. 1. Minor Mij of an element aij of a determinant ∆ is the
determinant obtained by omitting its ith row and jth column in
which element aij lies.
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Def. 2. Cofactor Aij of an element aij of ∆ is defined as

Aij = (– 1)i + j Mij where Mij is the minor of aij.
1. Write minors and cofactors of the elements of the following
determinants:
2 –4 a c
(i) (ii)
0 3 b d
2 −4
Sol. (i) Let ∆ =
0 3
M11 = Minor of a11 = | 3 | = 3;
A11 = (– 1)1 + 1 M11 = (– 1)1 + 1 (3) = (– 1)2 3 = 3
(Omit first row and first column of ∆)
M12 = Minor of a12 = | 0 | = 0
A12 = (– 1)1 + 2 M12 = (– 1)1 + 2 (0) = (– 1)3 . 0 = 0
M21 = Minor of a21 = | – 4 | = – 4,
A21 = (– 1)2 + 1 M21 = (– 1)2 + 1 (– 4) = (– 1)3(– 4) = 4
M22 = Minor of a22 = | 2 | = 2,
A22 = (– 1)2 + 2 M22 = (– 1)2 + 2 2 = (– 1)4 2 = 2
a c
(ii) Let ∆ =
b d
M11 = Minor of a11 = | d | = d,
A11 = (– 1)1 + 1 d = (– 1)2 d = d
M12 = Minor of a12 = | b | = b,
A12 = (– 1)1 + 2 M12 = (– 1)3 b = – b
M21 = Minor of a21 = | c | = c,
A21 = (– 1)2 + 1 c = (– 1)3 c = – c
M22 = Minor of a22 = | a | = a,
A22 = (– 1)2 + 2 a = (– 1)4 a = a.
2. Write Minors and Cofactors of the elements of the
following determinants:
1 0 0 1 0 4
(i) 0 1 0 (ii) 3 5 –1
0 0 1 0 1 2

1 0 0
Sol. (i) Let ∆ = 0 1 0
0 0 1
1 0
∴ M11 = Minor of a11 = =1–0=1
0 1
A11 = (– 1)1 + 1 M11 = (– 1)2 1 = 1
0 0
M12 = Minor of a12 = =0–0=0
0 1
(Omitting first row and second column of ∆)
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Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

A12 = (– 1)1 + 2 M12 = (– 1)3 0 = 0

0 1
M13 = Minor of a13 = = 0 – 0 = 0,
0 0
A13 = (– 1)1 + 3 M13 = (– 1)4 0 = 0

0 0
M21 = Minor of a21 = = 0 – 0 = 0,
0 1
A21 = (– 1)2 + 1 M21 = (– 1)3 0 = 0

1 0
M22 = Minor of a22 = = 1 – 0 = 1,
0 1
A22 = (– 1)2 + 2 M22 = (– 1)4 1 = 1

1 0
M23 = Minor of a23 = = 0 – 0 = 0,
0 0
A23 = (– 1)2 + 3 M23 = (– 1)5 0 = 0

0 0
M31 = Minor of a31 = = 0 – 0 = 0,
1 0
A31 = (– 1)3 + 1 M31 = (– 1)4 0 = 0
1 0
M32 = Minor of a32 = = 0 – 0 = 0,
0 0
A32 = (– 1)3 + 2 M32 = (– 1)5 0 = 0
1 0
M33 = Minor of a33 = = 1 – 0 = 1,
0 1
A33 = (– 1)3 + 3 M33 = (– 1)6 1 = 1.
1 0 4
(ii) Let ∆ = 3 5 −1
0 1 2
5 −1
M11 = Minor of a11 = = 10 – (– 1) = 10 + 1 = 11,
1 2
A11 = (– 1)1 + 1 M11 = (– 1)2 11 = 11
3 −1
M12 = Minor of a12 = = 6 – 0 = 6,
0 2
A12 = (– 1)1 + 2 M12 = (– 1)3 6 = – 6
3 5
M13 = Minor of a13 = = 3 – 0 = 3,
0 1
A13 = (– 1)1 + 3 M13 = (– 1)4 3 = 3

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

0 4
M21 = Minor of a21 = = 0 – 4 = – 4,
1 2
A21 = (– 1)2 + 1 M21 = (– 1)3 (– 4) = 4
1 4
M22 = Minor of a22 = = 2 – 0 = 2,
0 2
A22 = (– 1)2 + 2 M22 = (– 1)4 2 = 2
1 0
M23 = Minor of a23 = = 1 – 0 = 1,
0 1
A23 = (– 1)2 + 3 M23 = (– 1)5 1 = – 1
0 4
M31 = Minor of a31 = = 0 – 20 = – 20,
5 −1
A31 = (– 1)3 + 1 M31 = (– 1)4 (– 20) = – 20
1 4
M32 = Minor of a32 = = – 1 – 12 = – 13,
3 −1
A32 = (– 1)3 + 2 M32 = (– 1)5 (– 13) = 13
1 0
M33 = Minor of a33 = = 5 – 0 = 5,
3 5
A33 = (– 1)3 + 3 M33 = (– 1)6 5 = 5.
Note. Two Most Important Results
1. Sum of the products of the elements of any row or column
of a determinant ∆ with their corresponding factors is = ∆.
i.e., ∆ = a11A11 + a12A12 + a13A13 etc.
2. Sum of the products of the elements of any row or column
of a determinant ∆ with the cofactors of any other row or
column of ∆ is zero.
For example, a11A21 + a12A22 + a13A23 = 0.
3. Using Cofactors of elements of second row, evaluate
5 3 8
∆ = 2 0 1 .
1 2 3
5 3 8
Sol. ∆= 2 0 1
1 2 3
Elements of second row of ∆ are a21 = 2, a22 = 0, a23 = 1
3 8
A21 = Cofactor of a21 = (– 1)2 + 1 (... Aij = (– 1)i + j Mij]
2 3
↓ ↓
(determinant obtained by omitting second row and first column of ∆)
= (– 1)3 (9 – 16) = – (– 7) = 7

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

5 8
A22 = Cofactor of a22 = (– 1)2 + 2 = (– 1)4 (15 – 8) = 7
1 3
5 3
A23 = Cofactor a23 = (– 1)2 + 3 = (– 1)5 (10 – 3) = – 7
1 2
Now by Result I of Note after the solution of Q. No. 2,
∆ = a21 A21 + a22A22 + a23A23
= 2(7) + 0(7) + 1(– 7) = 14 – 7 = 7.
Remark. The above method of finding the value of ∆ is equivalent
to expanding ∆ along second row.
4. Using Cofactors of elements of third column, evaluate
1 x yz
∆ = 1 y zx .
1 z xy
1 x yz
Sol. ∆= 1 y zx
1 z xy
Here elements of third column of ∆ are
a13 = yz, a23 = zx, a33 = xy
1 y
A13 = Cofactor of a13 = (– 1)1 + 3
1 z
= (– 1)4 (z – y) = z – y
↓
(determinant obtained by omitting first row and third column of ∆)
1 x
A23 = Cofactor of a23 = (– 1)2 + 3 = (– 1)5 (z – x) = – (z – x)
1 z
1 x
A33 = Cofactor of a33 = (– 1)3 + 3 6
1 y = (– 1) (y – x) = y – x
Now by Result I of Note after the solution of Q. NO. 2,
∆ = a13A13 + a23A23 + a33A33
= yz(z – y) + zx[– (z – x)] + xy( y – x)
= yz2 – y2z – z2x + zx2 + xy2 – x2y
= (yz2 – y2z) + (xy2 – xz2) + (zx2 – x2y)
= yz(z – y) + x( y2 – z2) – x2( y – z)
= – yz(y – z) + x( y + z)( y – z) – x2( y – z)
= ( y – z) [– yz + xy + xz – x2]
= ( y – z)[– y(z – x) + x(z – x)]
= ( y – z) (z – x)(– y + x) = (x – y)( y – z)(z – x)
Remark. The above method of finding the value of ∆ is equivalent
to expanding ∆ along third column.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

a11 a12 a13

5. If ∆ = a 21 a22 a23 and Aij is Cofactor of aij, then value
a31 a32 a33
of ∆ is given by
(A) a11A31 + a12A32 + a13A33
(B) a11A11 + a12A21 + a13A31
(C) a21A11 + a22A12 + a23A13
(D) a11A11 + a21A21 + a31A31.
Sol. Option (D) is correct answer as given in Result I of Note after
solution of Q. No. 2 and used in the solution of Q. No. 3 and 4
above.
Remark. The values of expressions given in options (A) and
(C) are each equal to zero as given in Result II of Note after
solution of Q. No. 2.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Exercise 4.5
Find adjoint of each of the matrices in Exercises 1 and 2.
1 2
1. 
4
.
3
1 2 a a12 
Sol. Here A =  =  11
3 4  a21 a22 
1 2
| A | =
3 4
∴ A11 = Cofactor of a11 = (– 1)2 4 = 4,
A12 = Cofactor of a12 = (– 1)3 3 = – 3
A21 = Cofactor of a21 = (– 1)3 2 = – 2,
A22 = Cofactor of a22 = (– 1)4 1 = 1

A A 12  ′  4 – 3 ′  4 – 2
∴ adj. A =  11  =  =  .
 A 21 A 22  – 2 1 – 3 1
Remark. For writing the Cofactors of the elements of a
determinant of order 2, assign a positive sign to the Cofactors of
diagonal elements and a negative sign to the Cofactors of non-
diagonal elements.
 1 –1 2
 5  .
2.  2 3
 – 2 0 1 
 1 –1 2  a11 a12 a13  1 –1 2
 a23  | A | =
Sol. Here A =  2 3 5 =  a21 a22 2 3 5
 – 2 0 1   a31 a32 a33  –2 0 1

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

3 5 2 5
∴ A11 = + = 3, A12 = –
0 1 −2 1
= – (2 + 10) = – 12, (See Note 2, below)

2 3 −1 2
A13 = + = 6, A21 = – = – (– 1) = 1,
−2 0 0 1

1 2 1 −1
A22 = + = 1 + 4 = 5, A23 = –
−2 1 −2 0
= – (– 2) = 2,
−1 2
A31 = + = – 5 – 6 = – 11,
3 5
1 2 1 −1
A32 = – = – (5 – 4) = – 1, A33 = +
2 5 2 3
= 3 + 2 = 5

 A11 A12 A13  ′  3 – 12 6 ′

∴ adj. A =  A21 A22 A23  =  1 5 2

 A31 A32 A33   – 11 –1 5

 3 1 – 11
 – 1 .
=  – 12 5
 6 2 5

a b  d – b
Note. 1. Adjoint of matrix  is 

 c d – c a
i.e., To write adjoint of a 2 × 2 matrix, interchange the diagonal
elements and change the signs of non-diagonal elements.
The above result can be used as a formula.
2. For writing the Cofactors of the elements of a determinant of
order 3 × 3, using the rule (– 1)i + j Mij, the signs to be assigned
to 9 cofactors are alternately + and – beginning with +.
Verify A(adj. A) = (adj. A)A = | A | I in Exercises 3 and 4:

3. 
2 3
.
 – 4 – 6
 2 3
Sol. Let A = 
− 4 − 6
− 6 − 3
∴ By Note 1, above, adj. A = 
 4 2

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

 a b  d − b 
∵ adj.  c is
d   − c a 
 
 2 3  −6 −3
∴ A. (adj. A) = 
 −4 − 6   4 2 
 − 12 + 12 − 6 + 6 0 0
=   = 
0
...(i)
 24 − 24 12 − 12 0
− 6 − 3  2 3
Again (adj. A). A= 
 4 2  − 4 − 6
 − 12 + 12 − 18 + 18 0 0
= 
12 − 12
= 
0
...(ii)
 8−8 0
2 3
Now | A | = = 2(– 6) – 3(– 4) = – 12 + 12 = 0
−4 −6
Again | A | I = | A | I2 (I is I2 because A is of order 2 × 2)
1 0 0 0 
= 0   = 0 0  ...(iii)
 0 1   
From (i), (ii) and (iii), A (adj. A) = (adj. A) A = | A | I.
1 –1 2
4. 3 0 – 2 .

1 0 3
1 −1 2 1 −1 2
 − 2 
Sol. Let A = 3 0 ∴ | A | = 3 0 −2
1 0 3  1 0 3
Let Aij denote Cofactor of aij
(For rule of signs to be assigned see Note 2 at the end of solution
of Q. No. 2).
0 −2
∴ A11 = + = + (0 + 0) = 0,
0 3
3 −2
A12 = – = – (9 + 2) = – 11,
1 3
3 0
A13 = + = + (0 – 0) = 0,
1 0
−1 2
A21 = – = – (– 3 – 0) = 3,
0 3
1 2
A22 = + = + (3 – 2) = 1,
1 3
1 −1
A23 = – = – (0 + 1) = – 1,
1 0
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

−1 2
A31 = + = + (2 – 0) = 2,
0 −2
1 2
A32 = – = – (– 2 – 6) = 8,
3 −2
1 −1
A33 = + = + (0 + 3) = 3
3 0

 A 11 A 12 A 13  ′ 0 – 11 0  ′  0 3 2
  
∴ adj. A =  A 21 A 22 A 23  = 3 1 – 1 =  – 11 1 8
 A 31 A 32 A 33  2 8 3  0 –1 3
 1 −1 2   0 3 2 
∴ A (adj. A) =  3  – 11 
 0 – 2   1 8 
 1 0 3   0 –1 3 
0 + 11 + 0 3−1−2 2 – 8 + 6
=  0–0–0 9+0+2 6 + 0 – 6

 0 + 0 + 0 3+0–3 2 + 0 + 9
11 0 0
=  0 11 0 ...(i)

 0 0 11
 0 3 2 1 −1 2
Now (adj. A) A =  – 11 1 8 3
 0 − 2
 0 −1 3  1 0 3
 0+9+2 0+0+0 0 − 6 + 6 11 0 0
=  − 11 + 3 + 8 11 + 0 + 0 − 22 − 2 + 24  =  0 11 0 ...(ii)
 0 − 3 + 3 0−0+0 0 + 2 + 9  0 0 11
1 −1 2
Now |A | = 3 0 −2
1 0 3
Expanding along first row
= 1(0 – 0) – (– 1) (9 + 2) + 2(0 – 0) = 0 + 11 + 0 = 11
Again | A | I = | A | I3 (... A is 3 × 3, therefore I must be I3)
1 0 0 11 0 0
= 11 0 1 0 =  0 11 0 ...(iii)
0 0 1 
 0 0 11
From (i), (ii) and (iii)
A. (adj. A) = (adj. A) A = | A | I.
Find the inverse of the matrix (if it exists) given in
Exercises 5 to 11.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

5. 
2 – 2
.
4 3
2 – 2
Sol. Let A= 
4 3
2 –2
∴ |A| = = 6 – (– 8) = 6 + 8 = 14 ≠ 0
4 3
∴ Matrix A is non-singular and hence A–1 exists.

We know that adj. A = 

3 2  a b  d − b
− 2 ∵ Adj.  c is
d   − c a
 4 
1 1  3 2
We know that A–1 =
14  − 4 2
adj. A = .
|A|
– 1 5
6. 
2
.
– 3
– 1 5
Sol. Let A = 
– 3 2
–1 5
∴ |A| = = – 2 – (– 15) = – 2 + 15 = 13 ≠ 0
–3 2
∴ A–1 exists.
2 − 5  a b  d − b 
We know that adj. A = 
− 1 ∵ Adj.  c =
d  − c a 
3 
1 1 2 − 5
∴ A–1 = (adj. A) = .
|A| 13 3 − 1
1 2 3
 4 .
7.  0 2
 0 0 5 
1 2 3  1 2 3
Sol. Let 
A = 0 2 4   ∴ |A| = 0 2 4
0 0 5 0 0 5
Expanding along first row
= 1(10 – 0) – 2(0 – 0) + 3(0 – 0) = 10 ≠ 0
∴ A–1 exists.
2 4
A11 = + = + (10 – 0) = 10,
0 5
0 4
A12 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 5
0 2
A13 = + = (0 – 0) = 0,
0 0
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2 3
A21 = – = – (10 – 0) = – 10,
0 5
1 3
A22 = + = (5 – 0) = 5,
0 5
1 2
A23 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 0
2 3
A31 = + = (8 – 6) = 2,
2 4
1 3
A32 = – = – (4 – 0) = – 4,
0 4
1 2
A33 = + = + (2 – 0) = 2
0 2

 10 0 0 ′ 10 − 10 2
∴ adj. A =  − 10
 5 0 =  0 5 − 4 
 2 −4 2  0 0 2
10 − 10 2
1 
− 4  .
1
∴ A–1 = adj. A = 0 5
|A| 10 
 0 0 2
1 0 0
 0  .
8. 3 3
5 2 – 1
1 0 0 1 0 0
Sol. Let A = 3 3 0 ∴ | A | =
3 3 0
5 2 – 1 5 2 –1
Expanding along first row | A | = 1(– 3 – 0) – 0 + 0 = – 3 ≠0
3 0
A11 = + = (– 3 – 0) = – 3,
2 −1
3 0
A12 = – = – (– 3 – 0) = 3,
5 −1
3 3
A13 = + = + (6 – 15) = – 9,
5 2
0 0
A21 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
2 −1
1 0
A22 = + = + (– 1 – 0) = – 1,
5 −1

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 0
A23 = – = – (2 – 0) = – 2,
5 2
0 0
A31 = + = (0 – 0) = 0,
3 0

1 0
A32 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
3 0

1 0
A33 = + = + (3 – 0) = 3
3 3

− 3 3 − 9 ′ − 3 0 0
∴ adj. A =  0  0
 −1 − 2 =  3 −1
 0 0 3  − 9 −2 3

− 3 0 0
–1 
0 .
1
∴ A–1 = adj. A = 3 −1
|A| 3 
 − 9 −2 3

 2 1 3
9.  4 –1 0  .
 – 7 2 1 
2 1 3
Sol. Let | A | = 4 –1 0
–7 2 1
Expanding by first row,
= 2(– 1) – 1(4) + 3(8 – 7) = – 2 – 4 + 3 = – 3 ≠ 0
⇒ A is non-singular ∴ A–1 exists.
−1 0 4 0
A11 = + = – 1, A12 = – = – 4,
2 1 −7 1
4 −1 1 3
A13 = + = 8 – 7 = 1, A21 = – = 5,
−7 2 2 1
2 3 2 1
A22 = + = 23, A23 = – = – 11,
−7 1 −7 2
1 3 2 3
A31 = = 3, A32 = – = 12,
−1 0 4 0
2 1
A33 = = – 6
4 −1

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

– 1 –4 1 ′ – 1 5 3
   12
∴ adj. A =  5 23 – 11 =  – 4 23
 3 12 − 6  1 − 11 − 6

– 1 5 3
1 
12 .
1
∴ A –1
= adj. A = – –4 23
|A| 3 
 1 − 11 − 6
1 –1 2
 – 3 .
10. 0 2
 3 –2 4
1
–1 2 1 –1 2
Sol. Let A = 0
2 – 3 ∴ |A| = 0 2 –3
3
–2 4  3 –2 4
Expanding along first row,
= 1(8 – 6) – (– 1) (0 + 9) + 2(0 – 6)
= 2 + 9 – 12 = – 1 ≠ 0
∴ A–1 exists.
2 −3
A11 = + = (8 – 6) = 2,
−2 4
0 −3
A12 = – = – (0 + 9) = – 9
3 4
0 2
A13 = + = + (0 – 6) = – 6,
3 −2
−1 2
A21 = – = – (– 4 + 4) = 0
−2 4
1 2
A22 = + = (4 – 6) = – 2,
3 4
1 −1
A23 = – = – (– 2 + 3) = – 1
3 −2
−1 2
A31 = + = 3 – 4 = – 1,
2 −3
1 2
A32 = – = – (– 3 – 0) = 3
0 −3
1 −1
A33 = + = (2 – 0) = 2
0 2
 2 −9 − 6 ′  2 0 − 1
− 9 3
∴ adj. A =  0 −2 − 1 =  −2

 − 1 3 2  − 6 −1 2

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

 2 0 − 1
1 
3
1
∴ A–1 = adj. A = −9 −2
|A| – 1 
− 6 −1 2
− 2 0 1  1 −1 
=  9 2 − 3 ∵ − 1 = 1 = − 1

 6 1 − 2

1 0 0 

11. 0 cos α sin α  .
0 sin α – cos α 

1 0 0  1 0 0
Sol. Let A = 0 cos α sin α  ∴ |A| = 0 cos α sin α

0 sin α – cos α  0 sin α – cos α
Expanding along first row
= 1(– cos2 α – sin2 α) – 0 + 0 = – (cos2 α + sin2 α)
or |A| = – 1 ≠ 0
∴ A–1 exists.

cos α sin α
A11 = + = (– cos2 α – sin2 α)
sin α − cos α
= – (cos2 α + sin2 α) = – 1

0 sin α
A12 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 − cos α

0 cos α
A13 = + =0
0 sin α

0 0
A21 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
sin α − cos α

1 0
A22 = + = (– cos α – 0) = – cos α
0 − cos α

1 0
A23 = – = – (sin α – 0) = – sin α,
0 sin α

0 0
A31 = + = 0 – 0 = 0
cos α sin α

1 0
A32 = – = – sin α,
0 sin α

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 0
A33 = + = cos α.
0 cos α

− 1 0 0  ′ − 1 0 0 
∴ adj. A =  0 − cos α − sin α  =  0
 − cos α − sin α 
 0 − sin α cos α   0 − sin α cos α 

− 1 0 0 
adj. A = –  0 − sin α 
1
∴ A–1 = − cos α
|A|
 0 − sin α cos α 
. .
( . | A | = – 1, obtained above)
1 0 0 
= 0 cos α sin α  .
0 sin α − cos α 

3 7 6 8
and B =  , verify that (AB)–1 = B–1A–1.
9
12. Let A =  
2 5 7
3 7
Sol. Given: Matrix A =  .
2 5
3 7
Therefore |A| = = 15 – 14 = 1 ≠ 0
2 5

1  5 − 7  a b  d − b 
∴ A–1= ∵ adj.  c =
d   − c a 
adj. A = 
|A| – 2 3 

6 8
Given: Matrix B = 
7 9
6 8
∴ |B |= = 54 – 56 = – 2 ≠ 0
7 9
1 1  9 − 8 1  9 − 8
∴ B–1 = adj. B = =
|B| – 2  – 7 6 –2 – 7
 6
 3 7   6 8  18 + 49 24 + 63 67 87
=
16 + 45
NowAB = 
5   7 47 61
=
 2 9  12 + 35 
67 87
∴ | AB | = = 67(61) – 87(47) = 4087 – 4089
47 61
= – 2 ≠ 0
1
∴ L.H.S. = (AB)–1 = adj. (AB)
|AB|

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1  61 − 87
=  67
...(i)
– 2  – 47

−1  9 −8  5 −7
R.H.S. = B–1 A–1 = 
2  −7 6   − 2 3 

 45 + 16 − 63 − 24
−1 − 1  61 − 87
=  − 35 − 12
2 +  =
2  − 47 67
...(ii)
 49 18
From (i) and (ii) we have L.H.S. = R.H.S. i.e., (AB)–1 = B–1 A–1.
 3 1
13. If A =  , show that A2 – 5A + 7I = O. Hence find A–1.
– 1 2

 3 1
Sol. Given: A = 
– 1 2

 3 1  3 1  9 − 1 3 + 2  8 5
∴ A2 = A . A =     = = 
 – 1 2  – 1 2  – 3 − 2 − 1 + 4  – 5 3
L.H.S. = A2 – 5A + 7I = A2 – 5A + 7I2
(I is I2 here because A is 2 × 2)
 8 5  3 1 1 0
– 5  + 7
1
=  
– 5 3 – 1 2 0
 8 5  15 5 7 0  8 − 15 5 − 5 7 0
=  –  + 
7  − 5 + 5
 = + 
− 5 3 − 5 10 0 3 − 10 0 7
− 7 0 7 0 −7+7 0 + 0
=  +  = 
 0 − 7 0 7  0+0 − 7 + 7

0 0
=   = O = R.H.S.
0 0
⇒ A2 – 5A + 7I2 = O ...(i)
–1 –1
Hence to find A . Multiplying both sides of eqn. (i) by A ,
A2A–1 – 5AA–1 + 7I2A–1 = O.A–1
⇒ A – 5I2 + 7A–1 = O
[... A2A–1 = A.A.A–1 = AI2 = A and AA–1 = I2 and IB = B]
⇒ 7A = – A + 5I2
–1

 3 1 1 0 − 3 − 1 5 0
+ 
5
= –   + 5  =  
− 1 2 0 1  1 − 2 0

 − 3 + 5 − 1 + 0 2 − 1 1 2 − 1
⇒ 7A–1 =  ⇒ A–1 =
7 1 3
 =   .
 1 + 0 − 2 + 5 1 3
Caution. Because we were to find; Hence A–1 i.e., A–1 from
A2 – 5A + 7I = O,

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

so don’t use
adj. A
A–1 = to find A–1 here.
|A|
3 2
14. For the matrix A =   , find numbers a and b such
1 1
that A2 + aA + bI = O.
3 2
Sol. Given: Matrix A = 
1 1
3 2 3 2 9 + 2 6 + 2 11 8
∴ A2 = A.A =     =  3 + 1 2 + 1 =  4
1 1 1 1    3
Putting values of A2 and A in A2 + aA + bI2 = O,
(Here I is I2 because A is 2 × 2), we have
11 8 3 2 1 0
 4 + a + b = O
 3 1 1 0 1
11 8 3a 2a b 0 0 0
⇒  4 +  +  = 
 3  a a  0 b 0 0
11 + 3a + b 8 + 2a + 0 0 0
⇒  4+ a+0  =  
 3+ a+b 0 0
Equating corresponding entries, we have
11 + 3a + b = 0 ...(i)
8 + 2a = 0 (⇒ 2a = – 8 ⇒ a = – 4)
4 + a = 0 (⇒ a = – 4), 3 + a + b = 0 ...(ii)
Value of a = – 4 is same from both equations.
Therefore, a = – 4 is correct.
Putting a = – 4 in (i), 11 – 12 + b = 0 or b – 1 = 0 i.e., b = 1
Again putting a = – 4 in (ii), 3 – 4 + b = 0
i.e., – 1 + b = 0 or b = 1
The two values of b = 1 are same from both equations.
∴ A2 + aA + bI = 0 holds true when a = – 4 and b = 1.
1 1 1
 2 – 3 , show that
15. For the matrix A = 1
 2 – 1 3
A – 6A + 5A + 11I = O. Hence find A–1.
3 2

1 1 1 1 1 1
  2 – 3
Sol. A2 = A . A = 1 2 – 3 1
2 – 1 3 2 – 1 3
Performing row by column multiplication,
1 + 1 + 2 1+ 2−1 1 − 3 + 3  4 2 1
= 1 + 2 − 6  − 14 
 1+4+3 1 − 6 − 9 =  − 3 8 ...(i)
2 − 1 + 6 2−2−3 2 + 3 + 9  7 −3 14 

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Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

 4 2 1 1 1 1
∴ A3 = A2 . A =  − 3 8 − 14  1
 2 − 3
 7 −3 14  2 −1 3
 4 +2+ 2 4+ 4 −1 4 − 6 + 3
=  − 3 + 8 − 28 − 3 + 16 + 14 − 3 − 24 − 42
 7 − 3 + 28 7 − 6 − 14 7 + 9 + 42
 8 7 1
=  − 23 27 − 69
 32 − 13 58
Now, putting values of A3, A2, A and I3 in A3 – 6A2 + 5A + 11I3
(Here I is I3 because matrix A is of order 3 × 3)
 8 7 1  4 2 1
=  − 23 27 − 69  – 6 
− 3 8 − 14 
 32 − 13 58  7 − 3 14 
1 1 1  1 0 0
1 2 − 3 + 11 0 1 0
+ 5   
2 − 1 3 0 0 1
 8 7 1  24 12 6
=  − 23 27 − 69 –  − 18 48 − 84 
 32 − 13 58  42 − 18 84 
 5 5 5 11 0 0
+  5 10 − 15 +  0 11 0
10 − 5 15  0 0 11
11 0 0
 8 − 24 + 5 7 − 12 + 5 1 − 6 + 5  0 0
=  − 23 + 18 + 5 − 69 + 84 − 15 +  11
27 − 48 + 10
 0 0 11
 32 − 42 + 10 − 13 + 18 − 5 58 − 84 + 15
 − 11 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 0
=  0 − 11 0  +  0 11 0  = 0 0 0 = O3 × 3.
    
 0 0 − 11  0 0 11 0 0 0
∴ A3 – 6A2 + 5A + 11I3 = O3 × 3 (proved above)

Hence find A– 1.
(See caution at the end of solution of Q. No. 13)
Now multiplying both sides by A– 1.
(A– 1A) A2 – 6(A– 1A) A + 5(A– 1A) + 11A– 1I3 = A– 1 . O3 × 3
⇒ A2 – 6IA + 5I + 11A– 1 = 0 (... A– 1A = I and A– 10 = 0)
⇒ A – 6A + 5I + 11A = 0
2 – 1

⇒ 11A– 1 = 6A – 5I – A2

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 1 1 1 0 0
 − 3 – 5 0
or 11A– 1 = 6  1 2 1 0
2 −1 3 0 0 1
 4 2 1
 − 14  (From (i))
– − 3 8
 7 −3 14 
6 − 5 − 4 6−2 6 − 1
 − 18 + 14 
or 11A– 1 =  6 + 3 12 − 5 − 8
 12 − 7 −6+3 18 − 5 − 14 

− 3 4 5 − 3 4 5
1 
or 11A– 1 =  9 −1 − 4  or A– 1 = 9 −1 − 4  .
11 
 5 −3 − 1  5 −3 − 1

 2 –1 1
 – 1 , verify that A3 – 6A2 + 9A – 4I = O and
16. If A =  – 1 2
 1 – 1 2
hence find A–1.
 2 –1 1
 – 1
Sol. Given: A = – 1 2
 1 –1 2
 2 –1 1   2 –1 1 
   –1 
∴ 2
A = A.A =  – 1 2 –1   2 –1 
 1 –1 2   1 –1 2 

 4+1+1 −2−2−1 2 + 1 + 2
⇒ A =  − 2 − 2 − 1
2
1+4+1 − 1 − 2 − 2
 2 + 1 + 2 −1−2−2 1 + 1 + 4 
 6 −5 5
 − 5
= − 5 6
 5 −5 6

 6 −5 5  2 −1 1
 − 1 − 1
∴ A = A . A = − 5
3 2 6 − 5  2
 5 −5 6  1 −1 2

 12 + 5 + 5 − 6 − 10 − 5 6 + 5 + 10  22 − 21 21
 − 10 − 6 − 5  − 21
= 5 + 12 + 5 − 5 − 6 − 10 =  − 21 22
 10 + 5 + 6 − 5 − 10 − 6 5 + 5 + 12  21 − 21 22
L.H.S. = A3 – 6A2 + 9A – 4I = A3 – 6A2 + 9A – 4I3
(Here I is I3 because A is 3 × 3)

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Putting values
 22 − 21 21  6 −5 5
=  − 21 22 − 21 – 6  − 5 6 − 5
 21 − 21 22  5 −5 6

 2 −1 1 1 0 0
 0
+ 9  − 1 2 
− 1 – 4 0 1
 1 −1 2 0 0 1

 22 − 21 21  36 − 30 30
=  − 21 22 − 21 –  − 30
 36 − 30
 21 − 21 22  30 − 30 36

 18 −9 9 4 0 0
+  − 9 18 − 9 – 0
 4 0
 9 −9 18  0 0 4 

 22 − 36 − 21 + 30 21 − 30  18 − 4 −9−0 9 − 0
=  − 21 + 30 22 − 36 − 21 + 30 + − 9 − 0
 18 − 4 − 9 − 0
 21 − 30 − 21 + 30 22 − 36  9 − 0 −9−0 18 − 4 

 − 14 9 − 9  14 −9 9
=  9 − 14 9 +  − 9
 14 − 9
 − 9 9 − 14   9 −9 14 

 − 14 + 14 9−9 − 9 + 9  0 0 0

=  9 − 9 − 14 + 14 9 − 9 = 0 0 0 = O = R.H.S.
 − 9 + 9 9 − 9 − 14 + 14  0 0 0
∴ A – 6A + 9A – 4I3 = O
3 2
...(i)

Hence to find A–1

(See caution at the end of solution of Q. No. 13)
Multiplying both sides of (i) by A–1,
A3A–1 – 6A2 A–1 + 9A A–1 – 4I3A–1 = O.A–1
or A2 – 6A + 9I3 – 4A–1 = 0
. .
[ . A3A–1 = A2AA–1 = A2I = A2 etc. and also IB = B]
⇒ – 4A = – A + 6A – 9I3
–1 2

1 2 6 9 1 2
Dividing by – 4, A–1 = A – A + I3 = [A – 6A + 9I3]
4 4 4 4
 6 −5 5  2 −1 1  1 0 0 
1  
⇒ A–1 = −5 6 − 5 − 6  − 1 2 − 1 + 9 0 1 0 
4 
  5 −5 6  1 − 1 2 0 0 1 


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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

 6 −5 5  12 −6 6 9 0 0 
1  
⇒A –1
= −5 6 − 5 −  − 6 12 − 6 + 0 9 0 
4  
  5 −5 6  6 −6 12 0 0 9 

 6 − 12 + 9 − 5 + 6 + 0 5 − 6 + 0  3 1 − 1
1 
1
1  
= − 5 + 6 + 0 6 − 12 + 9 − 5 + 6 + 0 = 1 3
4   4 
 5 − 6 + 0 − 5 + 6 + 0 6 − 12 + 9  − 1 1 3
17. Let A be a non-singular matrix of order 3 × 3. Then | adj. A |
is equal to
(A) | A | (B) | A | 2 (C) | A | 3 (D) 3 | A | .
Sol. If A is a non-singular matrix of order n × n,
then | adj. A | = | A |n – 1.
Putting n = 3, | adj. A | = | A |2
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.
18. If A is an invertible matrix of order 2, then det (A –1) is
equal to
1
(A) det A (B) (C) 1 (D) 0.
det A
Sol. We know that AA–1 = I for every invertible matrix A.
Taking determinants on both sides, we have
| AA–1 | = | I | ⇒ | A | | A–1 | = 1
1 1
Dividing by | A |, | A–1 | = i.e., det (A–1) =
|A| det A
∴ Option (B) is the correct answer.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Exercise 4.6
Examine the consistency of the system of equations in
Exercises 1 to 3.
1. x + 2y = 2
2x + 3y = 3.
Sol. Given linear equations are
x + 2y = 2
2x + 3y = 3
1 2  x 2
Their matrix form is 
3  y
=   (⇒ AX = B)
2 3
1 2 2
Comparing A =   and B =  
2 3 3
1 2
|A| =   = 3 – 4 = – 1 ≠ 0
2 3
∴ (Unique) solution and hence equations are consistent.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

2. 2x – y = 5
x + y = 4.
Sol. Given linear equations are
2x – y = 5
x + y =4
2 − 1  x  5
Their matrix form is 
1  y
=   (⇒ AX = B)
1  4
2 − 1  5
Comparing A = 
1
and B =  
1  4
2 − 1
| A | =  = 2 – (– 1) = 3 ≠ 0
1 1
∴ (Unique) solution and hence equations are consistent.
3. x + 3y = 5
2x + 6y = 8.
Sol. Given linear equations are
x + 3y = 5
2x + 6y = 8
1 3  x 5
Their matrix form is  =   (⇒ AX = B)
2 6  y  8
1 3 5 1 3
Comparing A =   and B =   | A | =  = 6 – 6 =0
2 6  8 2 6
So we are to find (adj. A) B
 6 − 3  a b  d − b 
adj. A = 
1 ∵ adj.  c d  =  − c a 
− 2   
 6 − 3  5  30 − 24  6
∴ (adj. A) B =   =  − 2 ≠ O
1  8
= 
 −2  − 10 + 8  
  6 
∵ The matrix  − 2 has non-zero entries
 
∴ Given Equations are Inconsistent i.e., have no common solution.
Examine the consistency of the system of equations in
Exercises 4 to 6.
4. x + y+ z =1
2x + 3y + 2z = 2
ax + ay + 2az = 4
Sol. The given equations are
x + y + z =1 ...(i)
2x + 3y + 2z = 2 ...(ii)
ax + ay + 2az = 4 ...(iii)
1 1 1  x 1 
 2  y =  2  (⇒ AX = B)
Their matrix form is  2 3
   
 a a 2a  z   4 

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1 1 1 1 1 1
2 3 
∴ Matrix A =  2 ∴ | A| = 2 3 2
 a a 2a a a 2a
Expanding along first row,
| A | = 1(6a – 2a) – 1(4a – 2a) + 1(2a – 3a)
= 4a – 2a – a = a
Case I. a ≠ 0 ∴ | A | = a ≠ 0
∴ (Unique) solution and hence equations are consistent.
Case II. a = 0 ∴ | A | = a = 0.
Putting a = 0 in given equation (iii), we have 0 = 4 which is
impossible.
∴ Given equations are inconsistent if a = 0.
5. 3x – y – 2z = 2
2y – z = – 1
3x – 5y = 3
Sol. The given equations are
3x – y – 2z = 2
2y – z = – 1 i.e., 0x + 2y – z = – 1
and 3x – 5y = 3 i.e., 3x – 5y + 0z = 3
3 −1 − 2  x  2
Their matrix form is 0 2 − 1  y =  − 1 (⇒ AX = B)
   
3 −5 0  z   3

3 −1 − 2  2
Comparing A = 0 2 − 1 and B =  − 1
3 −5 0  3
3 −1 −2
∴ | A | = 0 2 −1
3 −5 0
Expanding along first row,
| A | = 3(0 – 5) – (– 1) (0 + 3) + (– 2) (0 – 6)
= 3(– 5) + 3 + 12 = – 15 + 15 = 0
So now we are to find (adj. A) B
3 −1 −2
To find adj. A for | A | = 0 2 −1
3 −5 0
2 −1
A11 = + = (0 – 5) = – 5,
−5 0
0 −1
A12 = – = – (0 + 3) = – 3,
3 0

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0 2
A13 = + = (0 – 6) = – 6,
3 −5
−1 −2
A21 = – = – (0 – 10) = 10,
−5 0
3 −2
A22 = + = (0 + 6) = 6,
3 0
3 −1
A23 = – = – (– 15 + 3) = 12,
3 −5
−1 −2
A31 = + = (1 + 4) = 5,
2 −1
3 −2
A32 = – = – (– 3 – 0) = 3,
0 −1
3 −1
A33 = + = + (6 – 0) = 6.
0 2

− 5 −3 − 6 ′ − 5 10 5
adj. A =  10  3
∴
 6 12 =  − 3 6
 5 3 6  − 6 12 6
 −5 10 5   2   − 10 − 10 + 15
∴ (adj. A) B =  − 3   −1  = 
 6 3     − 6 − 6 + 9
 − 6 12 6   3   − 12 − 12 + 18

 − 5   − 5 
 − 3    
=   ≠ O ∵ The matrix  − 3 has non-zero entries
 − 6   − 6 
 
∴ Given equations are inconsistent.
6. 5x – y + 4z = 5
2x + 3y + 5z = 2
5x – 2y + 6z = – 1
Sol. The given equations are
5x – y + 4z = 5
2x + 3y + 5z = 2
5x – 2y + 6z = – 1
5 −1 4  x   5
Their matrix form is 2 3 5  y =  2 (⇒ AX = B)
   
5 −2 6   z   − 1

5 −1 4  5 5 −1 4
∴ A = 2 3 5 and B =  2 |A| = 2 3 5
5 −2 6   − 1 5 −2 6

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Expanding along first row

= 5(18 + 10) – (– 1) (12 – 25) + 4(– 4 – 15)
= 5(28) + (– 13) + 4(– 19)
= 140 – 13 – 76 = 140 – 89 = 51 ≠ 0
∴ Given system of equations has a (unique) solution and hence
equations are consistent.
Solve the system of linear equations, using matrix method, in
Exercises 7 to 10.
7. 5x + 2y = 4
7x + 3y = 5.
Sol. The given equations are
5x + 2y = 4
7x + 3y = 5
5 2  x  4
Their matrix form is 
3  y =   (⇒ AX = B)
7    5
5 2  x  4
Comparing A =   , X =   and B =  
7 3  y  5
5 2
| A | = = 15 – 14 = 1 ≠ 0
7 3
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B
1
⇒ X = (adj. A) . B
|A|
 x 1 3 −2  4  a b  d − b 
⇒  y = 1  – 7 ∵ adj.  c d  =  − c a 
   5   5
    
 x  12 − 10  2
⇒  y =   =  − 3
   − 28 + 25  
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = 2 and y = –3.
8. 2x – y = – 2
3x + 4y = 3.
Sol. The given equations are
2x – y = – 2
3x + 4y = 3
2 − 1  x  − 2
4  y
Their matrix form is  =   (⇒ AX = B)
3  3
2 − 1  x  − 2
Comparing A =  , X =  
4
and B =  
3  y  3
2 −1
|A| = = 8 – (– 3) = 8 + 3 = 11 ≠ 0
3 4
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B

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1  x 1  4 1   − 2
⇒ X = ⇒   =
11  – 3 2   3
(adj. A) . B
|A|  y
 5
 11  −
1  − 8 + 3 1  − 5
⇒ =   =   =  12 
11  6 + 6 11  12  
 11 
5 12
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = – and y = .
11 11
9. 4x – 3y = 3
3x – 5y = 7.
Sol. The given equations are
4x – 3y = 3
3x – 5y = 7
4 − 3  x 3
Their matrix form is    =   (⇒ AX = B)
3 − 5  y 7
4 − 3  x 3
Comparing A =   , X =   and B =  
3 − 5  y 7
4 −3
| A | = = – 20 – (– 9) = – 20 + 9 = – 11 ≠ 0
−5
3
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B
1
⇒ X =
|A| (adj. A) B
 x 1  –5 3  3 1  − 15 + 21
⇒  y = =
  − 11  – 3 4  7 − 11  − 9 + 28
 6
 x 1  6  − 11 
⇒  y = − 11 19 =  
     − 19 
 11 
6 19
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = – and y = – .
11 11
10. 5x + 2y = 3
3x + 2y = 5.
Sol. The given equations are
5x + 2y = 3
3x + 2y = 5
5 2  x 3
Their matrix form is     =   (⇒ AX = B)
3 2  y 5
5 2  x 3
Comparing A =  , X =   and B = 5
3 2  y  

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5 2
|A| = = 10 – 6 = 4 ≠ 0
3 2
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B
1
⇒ X = (adj. A) B
|A|
 x 1  2 − 2 3  a b  d − b 
⇒ ∵ adj.  = 
d   − c a 
 y =    
  4 – 3 5 5  c
 x 1  6 − 10 1  − 4  − 1
⇒  y =  − 9 + 25 =   =  
  4   4  16  4
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = – 1 and y = 4.
Solve the system of linear equations, using matrix method, in
Exercises 11 to 14.
11. 2x + y + z = 1
3
x – 2y – z =
2
3y – 5z = 9.
Sol. The given equations are
2x + y + z = 1
3
x – 2y – z =
2
3y – 5z = 9 or 0.x + 3y – 5z = 9
1 
2 1 1  x  
 −2 − 1  y  3 
Their matrix form is 1   = 2
0 3 − 5  z   
9
(⇒ AX = B)
2 1 1 1 
 x 3
1 −2 − 1  
Comparing A =  , X =  y and B =  
0 3 − 5 2
 z  9
 
2 1 1
| A | = 1 − 2 − 1
0 3 −5
Expanding along first row, = 2(10 + 3) – 1(– 5 – 0) + 1(3 – 0)
or | A | = 2(13) + 5 + 3 = 26 + 5 + 3 = 34 ≠ 0
1
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B = (adj. A) B ...(i)
|A|
Let us find adj. A
−2 −1
A11 = + = 10 + 3 = 13,
3 −5

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1 −1
A12 = – = – (– 5 – 0) = 5,
0 −5
1 −2
A13 = + = (3 – 0) = 3,
0 3
1 1
A21 = – = – (– 5 – 3) = 8,
3 −5
2 1
A22 = + = (– 10 – 0) = – 10,
0 −5
2 1
A23 = – = – (6 – 0) = – 6,
0 3
1 1
A31 = + = (– 1 + 2) = 1,
−2 −1
2 1
A32 = – = – (– 2 – 1) = 3,
1 −1
2 1
A33 = + = – 4 – 1 = – 5.
1 −2

13 5 3 ′ 13 8 1
∴ Adj. A =  8   − 10 3
 − 10 − 6 =  5
 1 3 − 5  3 −6 − 5
1 
 x  13 8 1  3
Putting values in eqn. (i),  y =  5 
1  
 − 10 3 
34 2
 z   3 −6 −5  9
 
 1
 
13 + 12 + 9  34   1
=
1 
5 − 15 + 27 =
1  17 =  
34  34    2
 3 − 9 − 45  − 51  − 3
 2 
 
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = 1,
1 3
y = , z = – .
2 2
12. x – y + z = 4
2x + y – 3z = 0
x + y + z = 2.
Sol. The given equations are
x – y + z = 4
2x + y – 3z = 0
x + y + z = 2

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1 −1 1  x  4 
Their matrix form is 2 1 − 3  y =  0 
    (⇒ AX = B)
1 1 1  z   2 
1 −1 1  x 4 
Comparing A = 2 1 − 3 , X =  y and B =  0 
1 1 1  z   2 
1 −1 1
| A |= 2 1 −3
1 1 1
Expanding along first row,
= 1(1 + 3) – (– 1) (2 + 3) + 1(2 – 1)
or | A | = 4 + 5 + 1 = 10 ≠ 0
1
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B = (adj. A) B ...(i)
|A|
To find adj. A
1 −3
A11 = + = (1 + 3) = 4,
1 1
2 −3
A12 = – = – (2 + 3) = – 5,
1 1
2 1
A13 = + = (2 – 1) = 1,
1 1
−1 1
A21 = – = – (– 1 – 1) = 2,
1 1
1 1
A22 = + = (1 – 1) = 0,
1 1
1 −1
A23 = – = – (1 + 1) = – 2,
1 1
−1 1
A31 = + = (3 – 1) = 2,
1 −3
1 1
A32 = – = – (– 3 – 2) = 5,
2 −3
1 −1
A33 = + = 1 + 2 = 3.
2 1

4 −5 1 ′  4 2 2
 − 2 =  − 5
∴ adj. A =  2 0
 0 5
 2 5 3  1 −2 3
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Putting these values in eqn. (i), we have

 x  4 2 2 4 
 y = 1  − 5 0 5 0
  10   
 z   1 −2 3  2 
 16 + 0 + 4   20  x  2
1   1 
= − 20 + 0 + 10 = − 10 ⇒  y =  − 1
10   10     
 4 − 0 + 6  10  z   1
Equating corresponding entries, we have
x = 2, y = – 1, z = 1.
13. 2x + 3y + 3z = 5
x – 2y + z = – 4
3x – y – 2z = 3.
Sol. The given equations are
2x + 3y + 3z = 5
x – 2y + z = – 4
3y – y – 2z = 3
2 3 3  x  5
Their matrix form is 1 −2 1  y =  − 4  (⇒ AX = B)
   
3 −1 − 2  z   3

2 3 3  x  5
Comparing A = 1 −2 1 , X =  y and B =  − 4 
  
3 −1 − 2  z   3
2 3 3
| A | = 1 −2 1
3 −1 −2
Expanding along first row, | A | = 2(4 + 1) – 3(– 2 – 3) +
3 (– 1 + 6)
= 2(5) – 3(– 5) + 3(5) = 10 + 15 + 15 = 40 ≠ 0
1
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B = (adj. A) B ...(i)
|A|
Let us find adj. A
−2 1
A11 = + = 4 + 1 = 5,
−1 −2
1 1
A12 = – = – (– 2 – 3) = 5,
3 −2
1 −2
A13 = + = – 1 + 6 = 5,
3 −1
3 3
A21 = – = – (– 6 + 3) = 3,
−1 −2

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

2 3
A22 = + = – 4 – 9 = – 13,
3 −2
2 3
A23 = – = – (– 2 – 9) = 11,
3 −1
3 3
A31 = + = 3 + 6 = 9,
−2 1
2 3
A32 = – = – (2 – 3) = 1,
1 1
2 3
A33 = + = – 4 – 3 = – 7.
1 −2

5 5 5 ′ 5 3 9
∴ adj. A =  3   − 13 1
 − 13 11 = 5
5 − 7
9 − 7
1 11

 x
 
Putting these values in eqn. (i),  y
 z 
5 3 9   5  25 − 12 + 27
1    − 4 1 
= 5 − 13 1 = 25 + 52 + 3
40     40 
 5 11 −7   3 25 − 44 − 21
 x  40  1
  1    
⇒  y = 40  80 =  2
 z   − 40  − 1
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = 1, y = 2, z = – 1.
14. x – y + 2z = 7
3x + 4y – 5z = – 5
2x – y + 3z = 12.
Sol. The given equations are
x – y + 2z = 7
3x + 4y – 5z = – 5
2x – y + 3z = 12
1 −1 2  x   7
Their matrix form is 3 4 − 5  y =  − 5 (⇒ AX = B)
   
2 −1 3  z   12
1 −1 2  x  7
Comparing, A = 3 4 − 5 , X =  y and B =  − 5
  
2 −1 3  z   12

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Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

1 −1 2
|A| =3 4 −5
2 −1 3
Expanding along first row,
| A | = 1(12 – 5) – (– 1) (9 + 10) + 2(– 3 – 8)
= 7 + 19 – 22 = 4 ≠ 0
1
∴ Solution is unique and X = A–1B = (adj. A) B ...(i)
|A|
Let us find adj. A
4 −5
A11 = + = 12 – 5 = 7,
−1 3
3 −5
A12 = – = – (9 + 10) = – 19,
2 3
3 4
A13 = + = – 3 – 8 = – 11,
2 −1
−1 2
A21 = – = – (– 3 + 2) = 1,
−1 3
1 2
A22 = + = 3 – 4 = – 1,
2 3
1 −1
A23 = – = – (– 1 + 2) = – 1,
2 −1
−1 2
A31 = + = 5 – 8 = – 3,
4 −5
1 2
A32 = – = – (– 5 – 6) = 11,
3 −5
1 −1
A33 = + = 4 + 3 = 7.
3 4

 7 − 19 − 11 ′  7 1 − 3
∴ adj. A =    11
 1 −1 − 1 =  − 19 −1
 − 3 11 7  − 11 −1 7
Putting values in eqn. (i),
 x  7 1 − 3  7
 y = 1  − 19 −1 11  − 5
  4   
 z   − 11 −1 7  12
 49 − 5 − 36  8  2
1   1    
= − 133 + 5 + 132 = 4  =  1
4  4 
 − 77 + 5 + 84  12  3
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = 2, y = 1, z = 3.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

2 – 3 5
3 2 – 4  –1 –1
15. If A =   , find A . Using A , solve the system of
1 1 – 2
equations
2x – 3y + 5z = 11
3x + 2y – 4z = – 5
x + y – 2z = – 3.
2 –3 5
Sol. Given: Matrix A = 3 2 – 4 

1 1 – 2
2 –3 5
To find A–1 | A | = 3 2 –4
1 1 –2
Expanding along first row,
| A | = 2(– 4 + 4) – (– 3) (– 6 + 4) + 5(3 – 2)
= 0 + 3(– 2) + 5 = – 6 + 5 = – 1 ≠ 0
1
∴ A–1 exists and A–1 = (adj. A) ...(i)
|A|
2 –3 5
To find adj. A from | A | = 3 2 –4
1 1 –2
2 −4
A11 = + = (– 4 + 4) = 0,
1 −2
3 −4
A12 = – = – (– 6 + 4) = 2,
1 −2
3 2
A13 = + = 3 – 2 = 1,
1 1
−3 5
A21 = – = – (6 – 5) = – 1,
1 −2
2 5
A22 = + = – 4 – 5 = – 9,
1 −2
2 −3
A23 = – = – (2 + 3) = – 5,
1 1
−3 5
A31 = + = (12 – 10) = 2,
2 −4
2 5
A32 = – = – (– 8 – 15) = 23,
3 −4

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2 −3
A33 = + = (4 + 9) = 13.
3 2

 0 2 1 ′ 0 −1 2
∴ adj. A = − 1 − 9 − 5 = 2
  −9 23
 
 2 23 13  1 −5 13
Putting this value of adj. A in (i),
0 −1 2  0 1 − 2
1   1 
A–1 = 2 −9 23 =  − 2 9 – 23 ...(ii) ∵ = − 1
−1   −1 
 1 − 5 13  − 1 5 – 13
Now using (this) A–1, we are to solve the equations
2x – 3y + 5z = 11
3x + 2y – 4z = – 5
x + y – 2z = – 3
2 –3 5  x   11
Their matrix form is 3 2 – 4   y =  − 5 (⇒ AX = B)
   
1 1 – 2  z   − 3

2 – 3 5  x  11
Comparing A = 3 2 – 4  , X =  y and B =  − 5
 
1 1 – 2  z   − 3
–1
Solution is unique and X = A B ( .. A–1 exists
. by (ii))
 x  0 1 − 2  11
Putting values,  y =  − 2 9 – 23  − 5
    
 z   − 1 5 – 13  − 3

 x  0 − 5 + 6  1
⇒  y =  − 22 − 45 + 69 =  2
     
 z   − 11 − 25 + 39  3
Equating corresponding entries, we have x = 1, y = 2, z = 3.
16. The cost of 4 kg onion, 3 kg wheat and 2 kg rice is ` 60.
The cost of 2 kg onion, 4 kg wheat and 6 kg rice is ` 90.
The cost of 6 kg onion, 2 kg wheat and 3 kg rice is ` 70.
Find cost of each item per kg by matrix method.
Sol. Let ` x, ` y, ` z per kg be the prices of onion, wheat and rice
respectively.
∴ According to the given data, we have the following three
equations
4x + 3y + 2z = 60,
2x + 4y + 6z = 90,
and 6x + 2y + 3z = 70.

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We know that these equations can be expressed in the matrix

form as
4 3 2  x 60
2 4 6  y  
   = 90
 6 2 3  z  70
or AX = B,
4 3 2  x 60 4 3 2
 6 , X =  y and B = 90 | A | = 2
where A =  2 4
    4 6
 6 2 3  z  70 6 2 3
Expanding along first row,
| A | = 4(12 – 12) – 3(6 – 36) + 2(4 – 24)
= 0 – 3(– 30) + 2(– 20) = 90 – 40 = 50 ≠ 0
Hence A is non-singular
∴ A– 1 exists.
∴ Unique solution is X = A– 1 B ...(i)
A11 = + (12 – 12) = 0, A12 = – (6 – 36) = 30,
A13 = + (4 – 24) = – 20
A21 = – (9 – 4) = – 5, A22 = + (12 – 12) = 0,
A23 = – (8 – 18) = 10 A31 = + (18 – 8) = 10,
A32 = – (24 – 4) = – 20, A33 = + (16 – 6) = 10

 0 30 – 20 ′  0 –5 10

∴ adj. A =  – 5 0 10 =  30
 0 – 20
 10 – 20 10  – 20 10 10

 0 −5 10
adj. A 1 
∴ A– 1 = = 30 0 − 20
|A| 50 
 – 20 10 10
Putting values of X, A– 1 and B in (i), we have
 x  0 −5 10 60
 y 1 
30 0 − 20 90
  = 50   
 z   – 20 10 10 70
 − 450 + 700  250
1 
400
1  
= 1800 − 1400  = 50 
50 
 − 1200 + 900 + 700 400

 x  5
or  y  = 8 
   
 z  8 

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⇒ x = 5, y = 8, z = 8.
∴ The cost of onion, wheat and rice are respectively ` 5, ` 8
and ` 8 per kg.

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISE
x sin θ cos θ
1. Prove that the determinant – sin θ –x 1 is
cos θ 1 x
independent of θ
x sin θ cos θ
Sol. Let ∆ = – sin θ –x 1
cos θ 1 x
Expanding along first row
−x 1 − sin θ 1 − sin θ −x
∆ = x – sin θ + cos θ
1 x cos θ x cos θ 1
= x(– x2 – 1) – sin θ (– x sin θ – cos θ) + cos θ
(– sin θ + x cos θ)
= – x – x + x sin θ + sin θ cos θ – sin θ cos θ
3 2

+ x cos2 θ
= – x3 – x + x (sin2 θ + cos2 θ) = – x3 – x + x
= – x3 which is free from θ i.e., independent of θ.
2. Without expanding the determinants, prove that

a a2 bc 1 a2 a3
b b2 ca = 1 b2 b3 .
c c2 ab 1 c2 c3

a a2 bc
2
Sol. L.H.S. = b b ca
c c2 ab

Multiplying R1 by a, R2 by b and R3 by c (by looking at the

partial products in third column)

a2 a3 abc
1 2 3
= b b abc
abc
c 2
c3 abc

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

a2 a3 1
abc 2 3
Taking abc common from C3, = b b 1
abc
c2 c3 1

1 a3 a2
Interchanging C1 and C3, = – 1 b3 b2
1 c3 c2

1 a2 a3
Interchanging C2 and C3, = 1 b2 b3 (... (– 1) (– 1) = 1)
1 c2 c3
= R.H.S.
cos α cos β cos α sin β – sin α
3. Evaluate – sin β cos β 0 .
sin α cos β sin α sin β cos α
cos α cos β cos α sin β – sin α
Sol. Let ∆ = – sin β cos β 0
sin α cos β sin α sin β cos α
Expanding along R1,
cos β 0
= cos α cos β – cos α sin β
sin α sin β cos α
− sin β 0 − sin β cos β
– sin α
sin α cos β cos α sin α cos β sin α sin β
= cos α cos β (cos α cos β – 0) – cos α sin β (– cos α sin β
– 0) – sin α (– sin α sin2 β – sin α cos2 β)
= cos2 α cos2 β + cos2 α sin2 β + sin2 α (sin2 β + cos2 β)
= cos2 α (cos2 β + sin2 β) + sin2 α (sin2 β + cos2 β)
= cos2 α + sin2 α = 1.
4. If a, b and c are real numbers and
b+c c+a a+b
∆ = c+a a+b b+c = 0.
a+b b+c c+a
Show that either a + b + c = 0 or a = b = c.
b+ c c+ a a+ b
Sol. Given: (∆ =) c+ a a+ b b+ c = 0
a+ b b+ c c+ a
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Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Operate R1 → R1 + R2 + R3
(... Sum of entries of each column is same and
= 2a + 2b + 2c = 2(a + b + c))
2(a + b + c) 2(a + b + c) 2(a + b + c)
⇒ c+a a+b b+ c = 0
a+b b+ c c+a
Taking out 2(a + b + c) common from R1.
1 1 1
⇒ 2(a + b + c) c+a a+b b+ c = 0
a+b b+ c c+a
0
∴ Either 2(a + b + c) = 0 i.e., a + b + c = =0 ...(i)
2
1 1 1
or c+a a+b b+ c =0
a+b b+ c c+a
Now each entry of first row is 1.
So operate C2 → C2 – C1 and C3 → C3 – C1 (to create two
zeros in first row)
1 0 0
⇒ c+a a+b−c−a b+ c− c− a = 0
a+b b+ c−a−b c+a−a−b

b− c b− a
Expanding along R1, ⇒ =0
c−a c−b
⇒ (b – c)(c – b) – (b – a)(c – a) = 0
⇒ bc – b2 – c2 + bc – bc + ab + ac – a2 = 0
⇒ – a2 – b2 – c2 + ab + bc + ac = 0
Multiplying by – 2, 2a2 + 2b2 + 2c2 – 2ab – 2bc – 2ac = 0
or a2 + a2 + b2 + b2 + c2 + c2 – 2ab – 2bc – 2ac = 0
or (a + b2 – 2ab) + (b2 + c2 – 2bc) + (a2 + c2 – 2ac) = 0
2

⇒ (a – b)2 + (b – c)2 + (c – a)2 = 0

⇒ a – b = 0 and b – c = 0 and c – a = 0
[... x2 + y2 + z2 = 0 and x, y, z ∈ R
⇒ x = 0, y = 0 and z = 0]
⇒ a = b and b = c and c = a ⇒ a = b = c ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii) either a + b + c = 0 or a = b = c.
Note. We can also start doing this question by operating
C1 → C1 + C2 + C3.

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x+a x x
5. Solve the equation x x+a x = 0, a ≠ 0.
x x x+a
x+a x x
Sol. Given: The equation x x+a x = 0
x x x+a
Sum of entries of each column is same and = (3x + a), so
let us operate R1 → R1 + R2 + R3
3x + a 3x + a 3x + a
⇒ x x+a x = 0
x x x+a
Taking out (3x + a) common from R1
1 1 1
⇒ (3x + a) x x+a x =0
x x x+a
a
∴ Either 3x + a = 0 i.e., 3x = – a i.e., x = – ...(i)
3
1 1 1
or x x+a x = 0
x x x+a
Now each entry of first row is 1,
so operate C2 → C2 – C1 and C3 → C3 – C1 (to create two
zeros in first row)
1 0 0
⇒ x a 0 = 0
x 0 a
Expanding along first row 1(a2 – 0) = 0 i.e., a2 = 0
⇒ a = 0. But this is contrary to given that a ≠ 0.
a
∴ From (i) x = – is the only solution (root).
3
Note. We can also start doing this question by operating
C1 → C1 + C2 + C3.
a2 bc ac + c2
6. Prove that a 2 + ab b2 ac = 4a2b2c2.
ab b2 + bc c2

a2 bc ac + c2
Sol. L.H.S. = a2 + ab b2 ac
ab b + bc
2
c2

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a2 bc c(a + c)
= a(a + b) b2 ac
ab b(b + c) c2
Taking a, b, c common from C1, C2, C3 respectively
a c a+c
= abc a+b b a
b b+ c c
Operate R1 → R1 – R2 – R3 (to create one zero in R1)
a−a−b−b c−b−b−c a+c−a−c
= abc a+b b a
b b+ c c

− 2b − 2b 0
= abc a+b b a
b b+ c c
Operate C2 → C2 – C1 (to create another zero in R1)
− 2b 0 0
= abc a+b −a a
b c c
−a a
Expanding along R1 = abc(– 2b)
c c
= abc(– 2b) (– ac – ac)
= abc(– 2b) (– 2ac) = 4a2b2c2 = R.H.S.
 3 –1 1  1 2 – 2
7. If A–1 =  – 15 6 – 5 and B = – 1
 3 0  , find (AB)–1.
 5 –2 2  0 –2 1
 3 −1 1  1 2 – 2
 0
Sol. Given: A–1 =  – 15 6 − 5 and B =  – 1 3
 5 –2 2  0 –2 1
We know that (AB)–1 = B–1 A–1 (Reversal Law) ...(i)
Now A–1 is given, so let us find B–1.
1 2 –2
| B | = –1 3 0
0 –2 1
Expanding along first row,
| B | = 1(3 – 0) – 2(– 1 – 0) + (– 2)(2 – 0)
= 3 + 2 – 4 = 1 ≠ 0
∴ B–1 exists.

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To find adj. B
3 0
B11 = + = (3 – 0) = 3,
−2 1
−1 0
B12 = – = – (– 1 – 0) = 1
0 1
−1 3
B13 = + = 2,
0 −2
2 −2
B21 = – = – (2 – 4) = 2,
−2 1
1 −2
B22 = + = 1 – 0 = 1,
0 1
1 2
B23 = – = – (– 2 – 0) = 2,
0 −2
2 −2
B31 = + = (0 + 6) = 6,
3 0
1 −2
B32 = – = – (0 – 2) = 2,
−1 0
1 2
B33 = + = (3 + 2) = 5.
−1 3

3 1 2 ′ 3 2 6
 2
∴ adj. B = 2 1 
2 =  1 1

6 2 5 2 2 5
3 2 6
1
∴ B –1
= (adj. B) =  1 1 2 (... | B | = 1)
|B|
2 2 5
Putting values of B–1 and A–1 in eqn. (i), we have
3 2 6   3 −1 1 
(AB) –1
=  1 1 2 

 – 15
 6 −5 

 2 2 5   5 –2 2 
9 − 30 + 30 − 3 + 12 − 12 3 − 10 + 12 
=  3 − 15 + 10 −1+6−4 1−5+4 

6 − 30 + 25 – 2 + 12 − 10 2 − 10 + 10 
 9 −3 5
=  − 2 1 0
 1 0 2

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 1 –2 1
8. Let A =  – 2 3 1 , verify that
 1 1 5
(i) (adj. A)–1 = adj. (A–1) (ii) (A–1)–1 = A.
 1 –2 1 1 –2 1
 1
Sol. Given: Matrix A =  – 2 3 ∴ | A | = –2 3 1
 1 1 5 1 1 5
= 1(15 – 1) – (– 2) (– 10 – 1) + 1(– 2 – 3)
= 14 – 22 – 5 = – 13 ≠ 0
To find adj. A
3 1
A11 = + = 15 – 1 = 14,
1 5
−2 1
A12 = – = – (– 10 – 1) = 11
1 5
−2 3
A13 = + = (– 2 – 3) = – 5,
1 1
−2 1
A21 = – = – (– 10 – 1) = 11
1 5
1 1
A22 = + = (5 – 1) = 4,
1 5
1 −2
A23 = – = – (1 + 2) = – 3
1 1
−2 1
A31 = + = – 2 – 3 = – 5,
3 1
1 1
A32 = – = – (1 + 2) = – 3
−2 1
1 −2
A33 = + = 3 – 4 = – 1.
−2 3

 14 11 − 5 ′
∴ adj. A (= B (say)) =  11 4 − 3

 − 5 −3 − 1
 14 11 − 5
=  11 4 − 3
 − 5 −3 − 1
 14 11 − 5
1 –1 
∴ A–1 = adj. A = 11 4 − 3 ...(i)
|A| 13 
 − 5 −3 − 1

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Now let us find (adj. A)–1 = B–1

14 11 −5
| B | = 11 4 −3
−5 −3 −1
Expanding along first row,
| B | = 14(– 4 – 9) – 11(– 11 – 15) – 5(– 33 + 20)
= 14(– 13) – 11(– 26) – 5(– 13)
= – 182 + 286 + 65 = – 182 + 351 = 169 ≠ 0
To find adj. B
4 −3
B11 = + = (– 4 – 9) = – 13,
−3 −1
11 −3
B12 = – = – (– 11 – 15) = 26,
−5 −1
11 4
B13 = + = + (– 33 + 20) = – 13,
−5 −3
11 −5
B21 = – = – (– 11 – 15) = 26,
−3 −1
14 −5
B22 = + = (– 14 – 25) = – 39,
−5 −1
14 11
B23 = – = – (– 42 + 55) = – 13,
−5 −3
11 −5
B31 = + = – 33 + 20 = – 13,
4 −3
14 −5
B32 = – = – (– 42 + 55) = – 13,
11 −3
14 11
B33 = + = (56 – 121) = – 65.
11 4

 − 13 26 − 13 ′  − 13 26 − 13
∴ adj. B =  26 − 39 − 13 =  26 − 39 − 13

 − 13 − 13 − 65  − 13 − 13 − 65
Taking – 13 common from this matrix adj. B
 1 −2 1
 1
= – 13  − 2 3
 1 1 5
1
∴ B–1 i.e., (adj. A)–1 = adj. B
|B|

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 1 −2 1
1  1
= (– 13)  − 2 3
169
 1 1 5

 1 −2 1
−1 
= −2 3 1 ...(ii)
13 
 1 1 5

( )
–1
–1 –1
Now let us find A = C (say) where
 14 11 − 5
−1 
C = A–1 = 11 4 − 3 [By (i)]
13 
 − 5 −3 − 1

 14 11 5
 − 13 −
13 13 
 
=  −
11 4 3
or C = A–1 −
13 13 13 
 
 5 3 1
 13 13 13 
14  4 9 
∴ | C | = | A–1 | = –  − − 
13 169 169 
 11   11 15  5  − 33 20 
– −  − − + +
 13   169 169   
13  169 169 
14  13  11  26  5  13 
= –  −  + 13  −  + 13  − 
13 169  169  169 
14 22 5 14 − 22 − 5 13 −1
= – – = = – = ≠ 0
169 169 169 169 169 13
Let us now find adj. C i.e., adj. (A–1)
4 3
−
13 13  4 −1 9  − 13
= − −
 169 169 
C11 = + = =
3 1 169 13
13 13
11 3
−
13 13  11 15  26 2
C12 = – = – − − = =
5 1  169 169  169 13
13 13
11 4
− −
13 13  33 20  − 13 −1
C13 = + = + − + = =
5 3  169 169  169 13
13 13

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11 5
−
13 13  11 15  26 2
C21 = – = – − − = =
3 1  169 169  169 13
13 13
14 5
−
13 13 14 25 39 3
C22 = + = – – = – = –
5 1 169 169 169 13
13 13

14 11
− −
13 13  42 55  13 1
C23 = – = – − + = – = –
5 3  169 169  169 13
13 13

11 5
−
13 13 33 20 13 1
C31 = + = – + = – = –
−4 3 169 169 169 13
13 13
14 5
−
C32 = – 13 13 = –  − 42 + 55  = – 13 = – 1
 
11 3 169 169  169 13
−
13 13
14 11
− −
13 13 56 121 65 5
C33 = + = – = – = –
11 4 169 169 169 13
− −
13 13

 1 2 1 ′
− 13 13
−
13 
 
adj. C = adj. (A–1) = 
2 3 1
∴ − −
13 13 13 
 
− 1
−
1
−
5
 13 13 13 
 1 2 1
 − 13 13
−
13 
 
= 
2 3 1
− −
13 13 13 
 
− 1 −
1
−
5
 13 13 13 
1
Taking – common,
13

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

 1 −2 1
⇒ adj. C = adj. (A ) = –
1
–1 − 2 3 1  ...(iii)
13 
 1 1 5
From (ii) and (iii), we can say that (adj. A)–1 = adj. (A–1)
(... [Link] of eqns. (ii) and (iii) same)
Hence first part is verified.
Again (A–1)–1 = C–1 (... C = A–1)
 1 −2 1
 1 
1  (By (iii))
1 1
= adj. C =  –  −2 3
|C|  1 13  
 – 
13  1 1 5

 1 −2 1
 1  = A (given)
⇒ (A–1)–1 =  − 2 3
 1 1 5
Hence second part is verified.
x y x+y
9. Evaluate y x+y x .
x+y x y
x y x+ y
Sol. Let ∆ = y x+ y x
x+ y x y
Operate R 1 → R 1 + R 2 + R 3 (because sum of entries of
each column is same and = 2x + 2y = 2(x + y))
2( x + y) 2( x + y) 2( x + y)
= y x+ y x
x+ y x y
Taking out 2(x + y) common from R1,
1 1 1
= 2(x + y) y x+ y x
x+ y x y
Now each entry of first row is 1, so let us operate C2 → C2
– C1 and C3 → C3 – C1 (to create two zeros in first row)
1 0 0
= 2(x + y) y x+ y− y x− y
x+ y x−x− y y−x− y

1 0 0
= 2(x + y) y x x− y
x+ y −y −x

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

x x− y
Expanding along R1, ∆ = 2(x + y) . 1
−y −x
= 2(x + y) (– x2 + y(x – y)) = 2(x + y) (– x2 + xy – y2)
= – 2(x + y) (x2 + y2 – xy) = – 2(x3 + y3)
[... x3 + y3 = (x + y) (x2 + y2 – xy)]
Remark. This question can also be done by operating
C1 → C1 + C2 + C3.
1 x y
10. Evaluate 1 x+y y .
1 x x+y

1 x y
Sol. Let ∆ = 1 x+ y y
1 x x+ y

Each entry of one column (here first) is 1.

Sol let us operate R 2 → R 2 – R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – R 1 (to
create two zeros in first column)
1 x y 1 x y
= 0 x+ y−x 0 = 0 y 0
0 0 x+ y− y 0 0 x

y 0
Expanding along first column, ∆ = 1 = xy.
0 x
Using properties of determinants in Exercises 11 to
15, prove that:
α α2 β+γ
11. β β 2
γ+α β – γ )(γγ – α )(α
= (β α – β )(α
α + β + γ ).
γ γ 2 α+β

α α2 β+γ
Sol. L.H.S. = β β 2
γ +α
γ γ2 α+β

Operate C3 → C3 + C1 to make all entries of third column

equal
α α2 α+β+γ
= β β 2
α+β+γ
γ γ2 α+β+γ

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

Taking out (α + β + γ) common from C3,

α α2 1
= (α + β + γ) β β 2
1
γ γ2 1

Now each entry of one column (here third is 1), so let us

operate R 2 → R 2 – R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – R 1 to create two
zeros in third column

α α2 1
= (α + β + γ) β−α β2 − α 2 0
γ −α γ 2 − α2 0
Expanding along third column,
β−α β2 − α 2
= (α + β + γ)
γ −α γ 2 − α2
(β − α) (β − α)(β + α)
= (α + β + γ)
(γ − α ) (γ − α)(γ + α)
Taking (β – α) common from R1 and (γ – α) common from
R2
1 β+α
= (α + β + γ)(β – α)(γ – α) 1 γ + α
= (α + β + γ)(β – α)(γ – α)(γ + α – β – α)
= (α + β + γ)(β – α)(γ – α)(γ – β)
= (α + β + γ) [– (α – β)] (γ – α) [– (β – γ)]
= (α – β)(β – γ) (γ – α) (α + β + γ)
= R.H.S.

x x2 1 + px 3
12. y y2 1 + py 3 = (1 + pxyz)(x – y)( y – z)(z – x).
z z2 1 + pz3

x x2 1 + px3
Sol. L.H.S. = y y2 1 + py3
z z 2
1 + pz3
(Here each entry of third column is the sum of two entries,
so we can write this determinant as sum of two
determinants, the first two columns being same in both
determinants)

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x x2 1 x x2 px3
2
= y y2 1 + y y py3
z z2 1 z z2 pz3
↑ ↑
= ∆1 + ∆2 ...(i)

x x2 px3
Now ∆2 = y y 2
py3
z z2 pz3

In an effort to make ∆2 similar to ∆1,

taking x, y, z common from R1, R2, R3 respectively and p
common from C3,
1 x x2
∆2 = pxyz 1 y y2
1 z z2

x2 x 1
Operate C1 ↔ C3, = – pxyz y2 y 1
z2 z 1

x x2 1
Operate C1 ↔ C2, ∆2 = pxyz y y2 1 = pxyz∆1
z z2 1

Putting this value of ∆2 in (i), L.H.S. = ∆1 + pxyz∆1

= (1 + pxyz)∆1 ...(ii)
2
x x 1
Now ∆1 = y y2 1
z z2 1

Operate R 2 → R 2 – R1 and R3 → R 3 – R 1 (to create two

zeros in third column)
x x2 1
= y−x y −x2 2
0
z−x z2 − x 2 0

Expanding along third column

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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

y−x y2 − x 2 ( y − x) ( y − x)( y + x)
∆1 = =
z −x z −x
2 2 ( z − x) ( z − x)( z + x)

Taking ( y – x) common from R1 and (z – x) common from R2,

1 y+ x
∆1 = ( y – x)(z – x)
1 z+ x
= ( y – x)(z – x)(z + x – y – x)
= ( y – x)(z – x)(z – y) = – (x – y)(z – x)(– ( y – z))
or ∆1 = (x – y)( y – z)(z – x)
Putting this value of ∆1 in (ii),
L.H.S. = (1 + pxyz)(x – y)( y – z)(z – x) = R.H.S.
3a – a+b – a+c
13. – b+a 3b – b + c = 3(a + b + c)(ab + bc + ca).
– c+a – c+b 3c
3a –a+b –a+c
Sol. L.H.S. = –b+ a 3b –b+ c
–c+a –c+b 3c
Here the sum of entries of each row is same and
= a + b + c. So let us operate C 1 → C 1 + C 2 + C 3
a+b+ c –a+b –a+c
∴ L.H.S. = a+b+ c 3b –b+ c
a+b+ c –c+b 3c
Taking out (a + b + c) common from C1,
1 –a+b –a+c
= (a + b + c) 1 3b –b+ c
1 –c+b 3c
Now each entry of first column is 1. So let us operate R2 →
R 2 – R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – R 1 to create two zeros in first
column,
1 –a+b –a+c
3b + a − b –b+ c+ a− c
L.H.S. = (a + b + c) 0
0 – c+b+ a−b 3c + a − c
Expanding along first column,
2b + a a−b
= (a + b + c) . 1 a−c 2c + a .
∴ L.H.S. = (a + b + c) [(2b + a)(2c + a) – (a – b)(a – c)]
= (a + b + c) [4bc + 2ab + 2ac + a2 – a2 + ac + ab – bc]
= (a + b + c)(3ab + 3bc + 3ac)
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 Class 12 Chapter 4 - Determinants

= 3(a + b + c)(ab + bc + ac)

= R.H.S.
1 1+ p 1+ p+ q
14. 2 3 + 2p 4 + 3 p + 2q = 1.
3 6 + 3p 10 + 6 p + 3 q
1 1+ p 1+ p+ q
Sol. L.H.S. = 2 3 + 2p 4 + 3 p + 2q
3 6 + 3p 10 + 6 p + 3q
On looking at a11 = 1,
Operate R 2 → R 2 – 2R 1 and R 3 → R 3 – 3R 1 (to make
entries a21 and a31 of first column as zeros)
1 1+ p 1+ p+ q R2 : 2 3 + 2p 4 + 3p + 2q
= 0 1 2+ p 2R1 : 2 2 + 2p 2 + 2p + 2q
0 3 7 + 3p – – – –
R2 – 2R1: 0 1 2 + p

R3 : 3 6 + 3p 10 + 6p + 3q
3R1: 3 3 + 3p 3 + 3p + 3q
– – – –
R3 – 3R1: 0 3 7 + 3p
Expanding along first column,
1 2+ p
L.H.S. = 1 – 0 + 0
3 7 + 3p
= 7 + 3p – 3(2 + p) = 7 + 3p – 6 – 3p = 1 = R.H.S.

sin α cos α cos (α + δ)

15. sin β cos β cos (β + δ) = 0
sin γ cos γ cos ( γ + δ)
sin α cos α cos (α + δ )
sin β cos β cos (β + δ )
Sol. L.H.S. =
sin γ cos γ cos ( γ + δ)
sin α cos α cos α cos δ − sin α sin δ
sin β cos β cos β cos δ − sin β sin δ
=
sin γ cos γ cos γ cos δ − sin γ sin δ
Operate C3 → C3 + (sin δ) C1
sin α cos α cos α cos δ − sin α sin δ + sin α sin δ
= sin β cos β cos β cos δ − sin β sin δ + sin β sin δ
sin γ cos γ cos γ cos δ − sin γ sin δ + sin γ sin δ

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sin α cos α cos α cos δ

= sin β cos β cos β cos δ
sin γ cos γ cos γ cos δ
Taking cos δ common from C3,
sin α cos α cos α
= cos δ sin β cos β cos β
sin γ cos γ cos γ
= cos δ (0) [... C2 and C3 have become identical]
= 0
= R.H.S.
16. Solve the system of the following equations: (Using
matrices)
2 3 10 4 6 5 6 9 20
+ + = 4, – + = 1, + – = 2.
x y z x y z x y z
1 1 1
Sol. Put = u, = v, = w.
x y z
∴ The given equations become
2u + 3v + 10w = 4, 4u – 6v + 5w = 1, 6u + 9v – 20w = 2
The matrix form of these equations is
2 3 10 u 4 
4  v 1 
 −6 5   =  
w  2 
 6 9 − 20
It is of the form AX = B
2 3 10 u 4 
   
where A = 4 −6 5 , X =  v  , B = 1 
w  2 
 6 9 − 20
2 3 10
| A | = 4 −6 5
6 9 − 20
Expanding by first row
= 2(120 – 45) – 3(– 80 – 30) + 10(36 + 36)
= 2(75) – 3(– 110) + 10(72) = 150 + 330 + 720 = 1200 ≠ 0
∴ Matrix A is non-singular
∴ A– 1 exists. ∴ Unique solution is X = A– 1 B ...(i)
Now let us find adj. A.
Now A11 = + (120 – 45) = 75, A12 = – (– 80 – 30) = 110,
A13 = + (36 + 36) = 72 A21 = – (– 60 – 90) = 150,
A22 = + (– 40 – 60) = – 100, A23 = – (18 – 18) = 0
A31 = + (15 + 60) = 75 A32 = – (10 – 40) = 30,
A33 = + (– 12 – 12) = – 24
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 75 110 72 ′  75 150 75 

∴ adj. A = 150 − 100 0 = 110 − 100 30 
 75 30 − 24   72 0 − 24 

 75 150 75 
adj. A 1 110
∴ A – 1
= =  − 100 30 
|A| 1200
 72 0 − 24 
Putting these values of X, A– 1 and B in (i), we have
u  75 150 75  4 
 v = 1 110 1 
   − 100 30   
1200
w  72 0 − 24   2 
1 
2
300 + 150 + 150  600   
1 1  1
=  440 − 100 + 60  =
  400  =  
1200 1200  3
 288 + 0 − 48  240   
1 
 5 
1 1 1
Equating corresponding entries, u = , v = , w =
2 3 5
1 1 1
∴ = 2, = 3, = 5
u v w
1 1 1
i.e., x = = 2, y = = 3, z = = 5.
u v w
Choose the correct answer in Exercises 17 to 19.
17. If a, b, c, are in A.P., then the determinant
x+2 x+3 x + 2a
x+3 x+4 x + 2b is
x+4 x+5 x + 2c
(A) 0 (B) 1 (C) x (D) 2x.
. .
Sol. . a, b and c are in A.P. ∴ b – a = c – b ...(i)
x+2 x+3 x + 2a
Let ∆ = x+3 x+4 x + 2b
x+4 x+5 x + 2c
Operating R2 → R2 – R1 and R3 → R3 – R2, [By looking at (i)],
we have
x+2 x+3 x + 2a
∆ = 1 1 2(b − a)
1 1 2( c − b)

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x+2 x+3 x + 2a
Putting c – b = b – a from (i), ∆ = 1 1 2(b − a)
1 1 2(b − a)

= 0 (... R2 and R3 are identical)

Alternative Method
Operate R1 → R1 + R3 – 2R2.
18. If x, y, z are non zero real numbers, then the inverse
x 0 0
of matrix A =  0 y 0  is
 0 0 z
 x –1 0 0  x –1 0 0
 –1   –1 
(A)  0 y 0 (B) xyz  0 y 0
 0 0   0 
 z–1   0 z–1 
x 0 0 1 0 0
1 
0 
1 
(C) 0 y (D) xyz 0 1 0  .
xyz 
 0 0 z  0 0 1 
x 0 0 x 0 0
Sol. Given: Matrix A = 0 y 0 ∴ |A| = 0 y 0
 0 0 z  0 0 z
Expanding along first row,
| A | = x( yz – 0) – 0 + 0 = xyz ≠ 0
. .
( . It is given that x, y, z are non-zero real numbers)
1
∴ A–1 exists and A–1 = adj. A ...(i)
|A|
To find adj. A
y 0 0 0
A11 = + = yz, A12 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 z 0 z
0 y 0 0
A13 = + = 0 – 0 = 0, A21 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 0 0 z
x 0 x 0
A22 = + = xz, A23 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
0 z 0 0
0 0 x 0
A31 = + = (0 – 0) = 0, A32 = – = – (0 – 0) = 0,
y 0 0 0
x 0
A33 = + = xy.
0 y

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 yz 0 0 ′  yz 0 0
∴ adj. A =  0 xz 0 =  0
 xz 0 
 0 0 xy  0 0 xy 

 yz 0 0
1 
Putting values in eqn. (i), A–1 = 0 xz 0 
xyz 
 0 0 xy 

 yz  1 
 xyz 0 0  0 0
x
   
 xz  1
=  0 0  =  0 0

 xyz  y
 
 xy   1
 0 0   0 0
 xyz  z 
x− 1 0 0 
 
=  0 y− 1 0 
 
 0 0 z − 1 
∴ Option (A) is the correct answer.
Remark. The answer of this Q. No. 18 should be used
as a formula for one mark questions and Entrance
Examinations.
For example, inverse matrix of diagonal matrix
1 
2 0 0
2 0 0   
0 3 0 
is diagonal matrix 0 1 0 .
   3 
0 0 5  
0 0 1
 5 
 1 sin θ 1 

19. Let A =  – sin θ 1 sin θ  , where 0 ≤ θ ≤ 2π
π.
 – 1 – sin θ 1 
Then
(A) Det (A) = 0 (B) Det (A) ∈ (2, ∞ )
(C) Det (A) ∈ (2, 4) (D) Det (A) ∈ [2, 4].
 1 sin θ 1 
Sol. Given: Matrix A =  − sin θ 1 sin θ 
 – 1 – sin θ 1 

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1 sin θ 1
∴ |A| = − sin θ 1 sin θ
–1 – sin θ 1
Expanding along first row
det A i.e., | A | = 1 (1 + sin2 θ) – sin θ
(– sin θ + sin θ) + 1 (sin2 θ + 1)
= 1 + sin2 θ + 1 + sin2 θ = 2 + 2 sin2 θ ...(i)
We know that – 1 ≤ sin θ ≤ 1
∴ 0 ≤ sin2 θ ≤ 1
. .
( . sin θ can never be negative)
2

Multiplying by 2, 0 ≤ 2 sin2 θ ≤ 2
Adding 2 to all sides 2 ≤ 2 + 2 sin2 θ ≤ 4
i.e., 2 ≤ det. A ≤ 4 (By (i))
∴ (Value of ) det A ∈ closed interval [2, 4].
Therefore option (D) is correct answer.

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