Cálculo e aplicações de determinantes

Abstract

This paper deals with the properties and applications of determinants recognizing them as an important tool to synthesize the representation and calculation of some functions and equations in the field of Analytical Geometry and Linear Algebra. In the first chapters we present some of the history of determinants, the mathematicians who contributed in its evolution and the need that generated the beginning of their study. Then we proceed, the definition of determining and calculating the determinants from the theorem of Laplace via recurrence as well as the handy device for determining Sarrus third order. In the next chapter, we present the properties, a total of twelve, with their statements and examples, as they will be used in applications of determinants. Soon after, it presents a number of applications in linear algebra, eg, linear dependence and independence, inverse matrix, solution of linear systems (Cramer's Rule) and cross product; addition to applications in analytical geometry, such as alignment condition of three points of the parallelogram area and volume of the parallelepiped. Finally, it is concluded that it is essential the teacher of the second grade of high school address in their classes a little history, calling students' attention to mathematicians who have excelled in this study; expose the applications of determinants, arousing the curiosity of their students and interest in the area of Linear Algebra and Analytic Geometry.