Project ForgeEngineering Mathematics
Linear Algebra
GATE 2015
Easy
If any two columns of a determinant P=|[4,7,8],[3,1,5],[9,6,2]| are interchanged, which one of the following statements regarding the value of the determinant is CORRECT?
- Absolute value remains unchanged but sign will change.
- BBoth absolute value and sign will change.
- CAbsolute value will change but sign will not change.
- DBoth absolute value and sign will remain unchanged.
Explanation
Interchanging any two rows or columns of a determinant negates its value (multiplies by −1) while leaving the magnitude unchanged — a standard elementary determinant property.
Source: GATE ME 2015 (Session 1) (2015)
This question is part of a 15-day revision cycle — sign in and Project Forge will bring it back the day before you'd forget it.