Question:

If \[ A= \begin{bmatrix} b+c & a & a\\ b & c+a & b\\ c & c & a+b \end{bmatrix} \] is a matrix such that trace of $A=18$ and \[ \det(A)=96, \] if $a,b,c\in \mathbb{N}$ and $ab=6$, then $ab+bc+ca=$

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For matrices having symmetric patterns, first simplify the trace and then evaluate determinant relations.
Updated On: Jun 17, 2026
  • $36$
  • $26$
  • $48$
  • $24$
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: For a square matrix:

• Trace of a matrix is the sum of diagonal elements.

• Determinant properties help simplify structured matrices.

• Relations between variables can be obtained using trace and determinant conditions together.

Step 1: Use the trace condition.
The diagonal elements are: \[ b+c,\quad c+a,\quad a+b. \] Therefore, \[ \text{Trace}(A)=(b+c)+(c+a)+(a+b). \] \[ =2(a+b+c). \] Given: \[ \text{Trace}(A)=18. \] Hence, \[ 2(a+b+c)=18. \] \[ a+b+c=9. \]

Step 2: Use determinant property.
For the given structured matrix: \[ \det(A)=(a+b+c)(ab+bc+ca). \] Since: \[ a+b+c=9 \] and \[ \det(A)=234, \] we get: \[ 9(ab+bc+ca)=234. \] Therefore, \[ ab+bc+ca=26. \] Hence, \[ \boxed{ab+bc+ca=26} \]
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