ECZ 2014 · O-Level Paper 1 — Matrices

Given that P = 3-1-20 and Q = 34-4x, find the value of x if P and Q have equal determinants.

  • A. 6
  • B. 163
  • C. 143
  • D. −6

Verified working — step 1

det P = 3 × 0 − -1 × -2 = 0 − 2 = −2. det Q = 3x − 4 × -4 = 3x + 16. Setting 3x + 16 = −2 gives 3x = −18, so x = …

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Original examination question © Examinations Council of Zambia. Worked solution and commentary © G12 Titan — not to be reproduced without permission.

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