If the following system has non-trivial solution,
px + qy + rz = 0 qx + ry + pz = 0 rx + py + qz = 0
then which one of the following options is True?
(A) p – q + r = 0 or p = q = –r
(B) p + q – r = 0 or p = –q = r
(C) p + q + r = 0 or p = q = r
(D) p – q + r = 0 or p = –q = –r
Answer: (C)
Explanation: For non-trivial solution, |A| should be equal to 0
Hence,
Now solve it using matrix rules:
(p+q+r) [(q-r)(p-q) – (r-p) (r-p) ] = 0
Either (p+q+r) = 0 or [(q-r)(p-q) – (r-p) (r-p) = 0
From (p+q+r) =0, you can clearly say that option C is the correct one.
and for more precise answer, let’s solve second equation:
[(q-r)(p-q) – (r-p) (r-p) = 0
(q-r)(p-q) = (r-p) (r-p)
and only p = q = r satisfies this equation. So option C is correct one.
This explanation has been contributed by Nitika Bansal.