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JAMB Mathematics 2003 Question 14

Question 14

Matrices and Determinants

If |−x 2; 4x 1| = |3 3x; 4 −5|, find the value of x. (Each is a 2 × 2 determinant written row by row.)

  1. A.5
  2. B.2
  3. C.−2
  4. D.−5
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (−5)

Explanation

Left side: −x − 8x = −9x. Right side: −15 − 12x. So −9x = −15 − 12x, 3x = −15 and x = −5.