ABSTRACT
If we have a square matrix, we may represent its determinant using the row and column notation of matrices. To distinguish the two concepts of a determinant, we enclose the elements of a determinant between vertical parallel lines. This chapter deals with the concept of a determinant. It helps the reader to distinguish between matrices and determinants and evaluate determinants. It assists in using Cramer’s rule, calculating minors and cofactors, and simplifying determinants. If the row and column in which an element is situated are deleted and the resulting determinant is evaluated, the result is known as the minor of the element. The chapter also demonstrates how to apply determinants to the practical problem of a Wheatstone bridge.
