The number of non-singular matrices, with four entries as 1 and all other entries as 0, is
- (A)5
- (B)6
- (C)at least 7✓ Correct
- (D)less than 4
Answer: (C)
Solution
We want matrices with exactly four entries equal to and the rest that are non-singular. One ready family keeps the three diagonal s, which alone give the identity, and adds a single in any one of the six off-diagonal places; each such matrix is triangular in effect with non-zero determinant, already giving six non-singular matrices. Further non-singular arrangements exist with the four s placed differently, so the total exceeds six. The number of such matrices is at least seven.
JEE Main · 2010 · 11 Apr 2010 · Offline · Single correct option