Exercise 3.4 Class 10 Math Solutions – Matrix Multiplication & Laws, Punjab Board
Solved Exercise 3.4 for Class 10 Mathematics, Punjab Board. Complete step-by-step notes covering matrix multiplication conformability, row-by-column product calculations, non-commutativity (AB ≠ BA), associative law ((AB)C = A(BC)), distributive laws (A(B ± C) = AB ± AC), and multiplicative identity (AI = IA = A).
Exercise Overview
Exercise 3.4 is one of the most critical conceptual and computational chapters in Unit 3: Matrices and Determinants for Class 10 Punjab Board Mathematics. It shifts focus from element-wise addition to row-by-column matrix multiplication, introducing students to the non-intuitive algebraic structures of modern linear algebra.
The exercise begins with the compatibility test for multiplication: the product AB exists if and only if the number of columns of matrix A equals the number of rows of matrix B. Students master the row-by-column multiplication process, calculating dot products of vectors to determine entry values. Key theoretical investigations include demonstrating the general non-commutativity of matrix multiplication (AB ≠ BA), proving the Associative Law ((AB)C = A(BC)), applying the Left and Right Distributive Laws (A(B + C) = AB + AC and (A + B)C = AC + BC), and establishing the role of the identity matrix I as the multiplicative identity (AI = IA = A).
In Punjab Board examinations (such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Multan, and other BISE boards), Exercise 3.4 questions regularly appear as high-scoring long questions in Section C. Verifying associative and distributive laws requires meticulous arithmetic and step-by-step documentation. These comprehensive solutions provide clear, structured working to ensure matric students achieve full marks.