Class 12 Maths Determinants Exercise 4.3 Solutions PDF & Key Concepts
FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Maths Chapter 4 Determinants Exercise 4.3 – 2025-26
1. What is the correct method to calculate the minor of a matrix element according to NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Maths Chapter 4?
To find the minor of an element, remove the row and column containing that element from the determinant, then compute the determinant of the remaining submatrix. This aligns with the stepwise procedure required in the NCERT Solutions as per the CBSE 2025–26 Maths syllabus.
2. How are cofactors used for expanding a determinant in Class 12 Chapter 4 NCERT Solutions?
Cofactors are used to expand a determinant by multiplying each element of a row or column with its corresponding cofactor and then summing the results. For a 3×3 determinant, the formula is: Δ = a11A11 + a12A12 + a13A13, as emphasized in the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Maths.
3. Why is it important to follow every calculation step while solving determinant problems in Exercise 4.3?
Following each calculation step ensures accuracy, prevents sign errors with cofactors, and helps earn full marks. Proper steps also make it easier to double-check answers and meet the stepwise marking pattern of CBSE board exams.
4. What are the main differences between minors and cofactors in determinants?
Minors are the determinants formed after removing one row and one column for an element, while cofactors are these minors multiplied by (-1)i+j, giving them a sign based on their position in the matrix.
5. How does mastering Exercise 4.3 help in other advanced topics of the Class 12 Maths syllabus?
Skills from Exercise 4.3, such as accurately finding minors and cofactors, are foundational for advanced operations like finding inverse of matrices, applying Cramer’s Rule, and tackling system of linear equations, all of which appear in later chapters and entrance exams.
6. What sign pattern is followed when calculating cofactors in Class 12 Determinants?
The sign assigned to a cofactor depends on its position using the rule (-1)i+j (where i is the row number and j is the column number). The pattern alternates like a checkerboard, starting with positive (+) at the top-left element.
7. What should students do to avoid common mistakes while solving questions on minors and cofactors in Exercise 4.3?
- Carefully delete the correct row and column for each element.
- Apply the sign convention (-1)i+j for cofactors.
- Double-check submatrix calculations before proceeding.
- Write each step clearly for proper CBSE marking.
8. How are the NCERT stepwise solutions for determinants marked in CBSE board exams?
Marks are awarded for showing correct deletion of rows/columns, accurate calculation of minors, correct application of sign for cofactors, and for final expansion. Writing all intermediate steps helps secure maximum marks as per latest CBSE assessment guidelines.
9. What if two rows or columns in a determinant are identical when solving NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Maths Chapter 4?
If two rows or columns are identical, the determinant equals zero. This principle simplifies calculations and is used as a shortcut to cross-verify answers found using minors and cofactors.
10. Can the method for finding minors and cofactors be applied to determinants larger than 3×3 in NCERT Solutions?
Yes, the same method for calculating minors and applying sign rules for cofactors applies to determinants of any size. For higher order (n×n) determinants, the process involves breaking down the determinant recursively until 2×2 or 3×3 matrices are reached.
11. How do determinants, minors, and cofactors contribute to solving systems of linear equations using Cramer’s Rule?
Cramer’s Rule uses determinants and cofactors to solve linear equations. Each variable’s value is found by replacing the corresponding column in the main determinant with the constants of the equations and dividing by the original determinant, relying on accurate minor and cofactor calculations.
12. What prerequisite knowledge should students have before attempting NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Maths Chapter 4 Determinants Exercise 4.3?
- Understanding of matrix basics (rows, columns, order)
- Ability to compute 2×2 and 3×3 determinants
- Familiarity with sign conventions in algebra
13. Why is stepwise writing of minors and cofactors explicitly required as per CBSE marking scheme?
The CBSE marking scheme awards marks for each clear step. Explicitly showing minors, sign conventions, and cofactor calculations ensures the examiner follows your logic, giving credit for each correctly completed part of the solution.
14. What is a common misconception about the cofactor sign convention, and how can students avoid this pitfall?
A major misconception is overlooking the alternating sign pattern when multiplying minors. Students should always check (-1)i+j for each element to avoid calculation errors, especially in board and entrance exam settings.
15. How does regular practice with stepwise NCERT Solutions for Exercise 4.3 improve board exam performance?
Consistent practice helps students internalize minor and cofactor processes, reduces errors under exam pressure, and builds confidence in expanding determinants, which directly impacts success in the CBSE 2025–26 board exams.

















