Target Exam

CUET

Subject

-- Mathematics - Section A

Chapter

Matrices

Question:

If $A=\begin{bmatrix}2&1&-1\\0&1&2\\2&-1&λ\end{bmatrix}$ is a singular matrix, then the value of $λ$ is

Options:

0

3

5

-5

Correct Answer:

-5

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (4) → -5

$A=\begin{pmatrix}2&1&-1\\0&1&2\\2&-1&\lambda\end{pmatrix}$

$\det(A)=2\begin{vmatrix}1&2\\-1&\lambda\end{vmatrix} -1\begin{vmatrix}0&2\\2&\lambda\end{vmatrix} -1\begin{vmatrix}0&1\\2&-1\end{vmatrix}$

$=2(\lambda+2)\;+\;4\;+\;2$

$=2\lambda+10$

For a singular matrix: $2\lambda+10=0$

$\lambda=-5$

The required value of $\lambda$ is $-5$.