Mathematics

UPSC Mathematics 2023

All 16 questions from the 2023 Civil Services Mains Mathematics paper across 2 papers — 800 marks in total. Each question comes with a detailed evaluation rubric, directive word analysis, and model answer points.

16Questions
800Total marks
2Papers
2023Exam year

Paper I

8 questions · 400 marks
Q1
50M Compulsory solve Linear algebra, calculus and 3D geometry

(a) Let V₁ = (2, -1, 3, 2), V₂ = (-1, 1, 1, -3) and V₃ = (1, 1, 9, -5) be three vectors of the space ℝ⁴. Does (3, -1, 0, -1) ∈ span {V₁, V₂, V₃} ? Justify your answer. (10 marks) (b) Find the rank and nullity of the linear transformation : T : ℝ³ → ℝ³ given by T(x, y, z) = (x + z, x + y + 2z, 2x + y + 3z) (10 marks) (c) Find the values of p and q for which limₓ→₀ [x(1 + p cos x) - q sin x]/x³ exists and equals 1. (10 marks) (d) Examine the convergence of the integral ∫₀¹ (log x)/(1+x) dx (10 marks) (e) A variable plane which is at a constant distance 3p from the origin O cuts the axes in the points A, B, C respectively. Show that the locus of the centroid of the tetrahedron OABC is 9(1/x² + 1/y² + 1/z²) = 16/p². (10 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve each sub-part systematically with equal time allocation (~20% per part) since all carry 10 marks each. For (a), set up and solve the linear system for span membership; for (b), construct the matrix of T and apply rank-nullity theorem; for (c), use Taylor series expansion or L'Hôpital's rule to find p and q; for (d), apply comparison tests for improper integrals; for (e), use the distance formula and centroid coordinates to derive the locus. Present solutions clearly with proper mathematical notation and concluding statements for each part.

  • Part (a): Set up the augmented matrix [V₁ V₂ V₃ | (3,-1,0,-1)] and determine consistency via row reduction; conclude whether the target vector lies in the span
  • Part (b): Construct the 3×3 matrix of T, compute its rank via determinant or row reduction, then apply rank-nullity theorem (rank + nullity = 3)
  • Part (c): Expand cos x and sin x using Taylor series up to x³ terms, equate coefficients to ensure limit exists and equals 1, solving for p = -5/2 and q = -3/2
  • Part (d): Identify the singularity at x=0, use limit comparison test with x^(-1/2) or direct evaluation showing |log x|/(1+x) is integrable, proving convergence
  • Part (e): Use the plane equation x/a + y/b + z/c = 1 with distance condition 1/√(1/a²+1/b²+1/c²) = 3p, find centroid (a/4, b/4, c/4), eliminate parameters to obtain 9(1/x²+1/y²+1/z²) = 16/p²
Q2
50M solve Linear algebra, multivariable calculus and 3D geometry

(a) If the matrix of a linear transformation T : IR³→IR³ relative to the basis {(1, 0, 0), (0, 1, 0), (0, 0, 1)} is $$\begin{bmatrix} 1 & 1 & 2 \\ -1 & 2 & 1 \\ 0 & 1 & 3 \end{bmatrix},$$ then find the matrix of T relative to the basis {(1, 1, 1), (0, 1, 1), (0, 0, 1)}. (15 marks) (b) Evaluate the triple integral which gives the volume of the solid enclosed between the two paraboloids Z = 5(x² + y²) and Z = 6 – 7x² – y². (15 marks) (c)(i) Show that the equation 2x² + 3y² – 8x + 6y – 12z + 11 = 0 represents an elliptic paraboloid. Also find its principal axis and principal planes. (10 marks) (c)(ii) The plane $\frac{x}{a}+\frac{y}{b}+\frac{z}{c}=1$ meets the coordinate axes in A, B, C respectively. Prove that the equation of the cone generated by the lines drawn from the origin O to meet the circle ABC is $$yz\left(\frac{b}{c}+\frac{c}{b}\right)+zx\left(\frac{c}{a}+\frac{a}{c}\right)+xy\left(\frac{b}{a}+\frac{a}{b}\right)=0.$$ (10 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve all three parts systematically, allocating approximately 30% time to part (a) on change of basis matrices, 30% to part (b) on triple integration using cylindrical coordinates, and 40% to part (c) covering both the elliptic paraboloid identification and the cone equation derivation. Begin each part with clear statement of the method, show all computational steps with proper justification, and conclude with boxed final answers.

  • Part (a): Correct construction of change of basis matrix P using new basis vectors, computation of P⁻¹, and application of similarity transformation P⁻¹AP to find the new matrix representation
  • Part (b): Identification of intersection curve x² + y² = 0.5, correct setup of cylindrical coordinate bounds (r: 0 to 1/√2, θ: 0 to 2π, z: 5r² to 6-7r²), and accurate evaluation of the triple integral
  • Part (c)(i): Completion of squares to standard form, verification of elliptic paraboloid by identifying one linear term and two squared terms with same sign, identification of principal axis (z-axis direction) and principal planes
  • Part (c)(ii): Correct determination of coordinates A(a,0,0), B(0,b,0), C(0,0,c), equation of sphere through OABC, intersection with plane to get circle ABC, and homogenization to derive the cone equation
  • Proper matrix notation and determinant calculations for part (a) with verification of non-singularity
  • Clear geometric interpretation in part (b) showing the paraboloid intersection forms a bounded solid
  • Systematic algebraic manipulation in (c)(ii) showing the homogenization process with λ = 0 substitution
Q3
50M solve Linear algebra, multivariable calculus, 3D geometry

Let $A = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 0 & 0 \\ 1 & 0 & 1 \\ 0 & 1 & 0 \end{bmatrix}$ (i) Verify the Cayley-Hamilton theorem for the matrix $A$. (ii) Show that $A^n = A^{n-2} + A^2 - I$ for $n \geq 3$, where $I$ is the identity matrix of order 3. Hence, find $A^{40}$. 10+10 (b) Justify whether $(0, 0)$ is an extreme point for the function $f(x, y) = 2x^4 - 3x^2y + y^2$. 15 (c) Find the equation of the sphere through the circle $x^2 + y^2 + z^2 - 4x - 6y + 2z - 16 = 0$; $3x + y + 3z - 4 = 0$ in the following two cases. (i) the point $(1, 0, -3)$ lies on the sphere. (ii) the given circle is a great circle of the sphere. 15

Answer approach & key points

Solve this multi-part problem by allocating approximately 40% time to part (a) covering Cayley-Hamilton verification and recurrence relation (20 marks), 30% to part (b) on extreme point analysis using Hessian and higher-order tests (15 marks), and 30% to part (c) on sphere equations through given circle with two conditions (15 marks). Begin with clear statement of characteristic polynomial for (a), proceed to systematic matrix powers, apply second derivative test with discriminant analysis for (b), and use sphere family through circle intersection for (c).

  • For (a)(i): Correct computation of characteristic polynomial det(A - λI) = -λ³ + λ² + λ - 1 and verification that A³ = A² + A - I
  • For (a)(ii): Proof of recurrence Aⁿ = Aⁿ⁻² + A² - I using Cayley-Hamilton, and efficient computation of A⁴⁰ via pattern or binary exponentiation
  • For (b): Computation of first partials fx = 8x³ - 6xy, fy = -3x² + 2y, verification that (0,0) is critical point, and application of discriminant D = fxx·fyy - (fxy)² with higher-order analysis showing saddle point
  • For (c)(i): Formation of sphere family S: x²+y²+z²-4x-6y+2z-16 + λ(3x+y+3z-4) = 0 and substitution of (1,0,-3) to find λ
  • For (c)(ii): Condition that given circle is great circle requires sphere center to lie on plane 3x+y+3z-4=0, yielding center (-4+3λ)/2, (-6+λ)/2, (2+3λ)/2 satisfying plane equation
  • Explicit final answers: A⁴⁰ expression, conclusion that (0,0) is not extreme point (saddle), and two sphere equations with specific λ values
Q4
50M solve Matrix rank, curve tracing, 3D geometry

Find the rank of the matrix $A = \begin{bmatrix} 1 & 2 & -1 & 0 \\ -1 & 3 & 0 & -4 \\ 2 & 1 & 3 & -2 \\ 1 & 1 & 1 & -1 \end{bmatrix}$ by reducing it to row-reduced echelon form. 15 (b) Trace the curve $y^2(x^2 - 1) = 2x - 1$. 20 (c) Prove that the locus of a line which meets the lines y = mx, z = c; y = -mx, z = -c and the circle x² + y² = a², z = 0 is c²m²(cy - mzx)² + c²(yz - cmx)² = a²m²(z² - c²)². 15

Answer approach & key points

Solve all three parts systematically, allocating approximately 30% time to part (a) matrix rank reduction, 40% to part (b) curve tracing as it carries highest marks, and 30% to part (c) 3D geometry proof. Begin with clear identification of each part, show complete row operations for (a), detailed curve analysis with asymptotes and intercepts for (b), and rigorous parametric derivation for (c).

  • Part (a): Correct reduction of 4×4 matrix to row-reduced echelon form using elementary row operations, identification of pivot positions, and accurate rank determination
  • Part (b): Complete curve tracing of y²(x²-1)=2x-1 including symmetry analysis, asymptotes (vertical at x=±1), intercepts, domain restrictions, and sketch of two branches
  • Part (c): Proper parameterization of lines meeting given skew lines and circle, elimination of parameters to derive the stated quartic locus surface
  • Verification of rank by checking linear dependence of rows/columns or using determinant test for part (a)
  • Analysis of singular points and behavior near asymptotes for part (b) curve
Q5
50M Compulsory solve Differential equations, Laplace transforms, mechanics, SHM, vector calculus

(a) Obtain the solution of the initial-value problem dy/dx - 2xy = 2, y(0) = 1 in the form y = eˣ²[1 + √π erf(x)]. (10 marks) (b) Given that L{f(t); p} = F(p). Show that ∫₀^∞ f(t)/t dt = ∫₀^∞ F(x)dx. Hence evaluate the integral ∫₀^∞ (e⁻ᵗ - e⁻³ᵗ)/t dt. (10 marks) (c) A cylinder of radius 'a' touches a vertical wall along a generating line. Axis of the cylinder is fixed horizontally. A uniform flat beam of length 'l' and weight 'W' rests with its extremities in contact with the wall and the cylinder, making an angle of 45° with the vertical. If frictional forces are neglected, then show that a/l = (√5 + 5)/(4√2). Also, find the reactions of the cylinder and wall. (10 marks) (d) A particle is moving under Simple Harmonic Motion of period T about a centre O. It passes through the point P with velocity v along the direction OP and OP = p. Find the time that elapses before the particle returns to the point P. What will be the value of p when the elapsed time is T/2 ? (10 marks) (e) If ā = sinθî + cosθĵ + θk̂, b̄ = cosθî - sinθĵ - 3k̂, c̄ = 2î + 3ĵ - 3k̂, then find the values of the derivative of the vector function ā × (b̄ × c̄) w.r.t. θ at θ = π/2 and θ = π. (10 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve all five sub-parts systematically, allocating approximately 20% time to each part given equal 10-mark weighting. For (a), apply integrating factor method for linear ODE; for (b), use Laplace transform properties with Fubini's theorem; for (c), draw free-body diagram and apply equilibrium conditions; for (d), use SHM equations with phase analysis; for (e), apply vector triple product identity before differentiation. Present solutions with clear intermediate steps and boxed final answers.

  • Part (a): Identify integrating factor e^(-x²), solve using standard formula, apply initial condition y(0)=1, and manipulate to express using error function erf(x)
  • Part (b): Prove the identity using Laplace definition and changing order of integration (Fubini/Tonelli), then apply to f(t)=e^(-t)-e^(-3t) with F(p)=1/(p+1)-1/(p+3) to get ln(3)
  • Part (c): Construct geometry with 45° beam, locate contact points, write three equilibrium equations (ΣFx=0, ΣFy=0, ΣM=0), eliminate reactions to find a/l ratio, then back-substitute for reaction magnitudes
  • Part (d): Use SHM equation x = Asin(ωt+φ), apply conditions at point P to find phase, determine return time using periodicity and symmetry, evaluate p when elapsed time is T/2
  • Part (e): Apply vector identity ā×(b̄×c̄) = (ā·c̄)b̄ - (ā·b̄)c̄, compute scalar products, differentiate resultant vector component-wise, evaluate at θ=π/2 and θ=π
Q6
50M solve Differential equations, projectile motion, surface integrals

(a) Solve the differential equation: d³y/dx³ - 3d²y/dx² + 4dy/dx - 2y = eˣ + cos x. (15 marks) (b) When a particle is projected from a point O₁ on the sea level with a velocity v and angle of projection θ with the horizon in a vertical plane, its horizontal range is R₁. If it is further projected from a point O₂, which is vertically above O₁ at a height h in the same vertical plane, with the same velocity v and same angle θ with the horizon, its horizontal range is R₂. Prove that R₂ > R₁ and (R₂-R₁):R₁ is equal to (1/2){√(1 + 2gh/v²sin²θ) - 1}:1. (15 marks) (c) Evaluate the integral ∬ₛ (3y²z²î + 4z²x²ĵ + z²y²k̂)·n̂ dS, where S is the upper part of the surface 4x² + 4y² + 4z² = 1 above the plane z = 0 and bounded by the xy-plane. Hence, verify Gauss-Divergence theorem. (20 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve this multi-part numerical problem by allocating approximately 30% time to part (a) on third-order linear ODE, 30% to part (b) on projectile motion derivation, and 40% to part (c) on surface integral evaluation and Gauss-Divergence theorem verification. Begin each part with clear problem identification, show complete working with intermediate steps, and conclude with boxed final answers. For part (c), explicitly compute both the surface integral directly and the volume integral via divergence theorem to demonstrate verification.

  • Part (a): Correctly find complementary function by solving characteristic equation m³ - 3m² + 4m - 2 = 0 with roots m = 1, 1±i, and construct particular integrals for both eˣ and cos x terms using appropriate methods
  • Part (a): Apply correct operator methods or undetermined coefficients to obtain PI for eˣ (resonance case) and PI for cos x, then combine for complete general solution
  • Part (b): Set up projectile equations from sea level O₁: derive range R₁ = v²sin(2θ)/g using standard trajectory equations y = xtanθ - gx²/(2v²cos²θ)
  • Part (b): Set up modified equations from height h at O₂, find new range by solving when projectile hits sea level (y = -h), derive R₂ = (v²cosθ/g)[sinθ + √(sin²θ + 2gh/v²)], prove R₂ > R₁ and establish required ratio
  • Part (c): Identify S as upper hemisphere 4x² + 4y² + 4z² = 1, z ≥ 0 with radius 1/2, correctly compute divergence ∇·F = 2yz² + 2z²x + 2zy² for verification
  • Part (c): Evaluate surface integral directly using spherical coordinates or projection method, then compute volume integral ∭(∇·F)dV over hemisphere, show equality to verify Gauss-Divergence theorem
Q7
50M solve Differential equations and mechanics

(a)(i) Find the solution of the differential equation : $\dfrac{dy}{dx}=-\dfrac{2xy^3+2}{3x^2y^2+8e^{4y}}$ 10 (a)(ii) Reduce the equation $x^2p^2+y(2x+y)p+y^2=0$ to Clairaut's form by the substitution $y=u$ and $xy=v$. Hence solve the equation and show that $y+4x=0$ is a singular solution of the differential equation. 10 (b) A solid hemisphere is supported by a string fixed to a point on its rim and to a point on a smooth vertical wall with which the curved surface is in contact. If $\theta$ is the angle of inclination of the string with vertical and $\phi$ is the angle of inclination of the plane base of the hemisphere to the vertical, then find the value of $(\tan\phi-\tan\theta)$. 15 (c) If the tangent to a curve makes a constant angle θ with a fixed line, then prove that the ratio of radius of torsion to radius of curvature is proportional to tanθ. Further prove that if this ratio is constant, then the tangent makes a constant angle with a fixed direction. 15

Answer approach & key points

Solve this multi-part problem by allocating approximately 40% time to part (a) covering both differential equations (20 marks), 30% to the mechanics problem (b) involving equilibrium of a hemisphere (15 marks), and 30% to the differential geometry proof in part (c) on curvature and torsion (15 marks). Begin with clear identification of the solution method for each sub-part, execute calculations systematically with proper justification, and conclude with verification of results including the singular solution in (a)(ii) and the constant angle property in (c).

  • For (a)(i): Recognize the equation as exact after rewriting in differential form Mdx + Ndy = 0, verify ∂M/∂y = ∂N/∂x, and find the potential function ψ(x,y) = x²y³ + 2x + 2e^(4y) = c
  • For (a)(ii): Apply substitution y = u, xy = v to transform to Clairaut's form v = pu + f(p) where p = dv/du, obtain general solution v = cu + c²/(c+1), and verify y + 4x = 0 as singular solution via c-discriminant or envelope method
  • For (b): Draw correct free-body diagram with three forces (weight W at center of mass, tension T along string, normal reaction R perpendicular to wall), apply equilibrium conditions ΣFx = 0, ΣFy = 0, ΣM = 0 about appropriate point, use geometry relating θ and φ through hemisphere radius a, and derive tanφ - tanθ = 1/2
  • For (c): Use Frenet-Serret formulas with fixed direction making angle θ with tangent, express d𝐭/ds = κ𝐧 and d𝐛/ds = -τ𝐧, show that 𝐭·𝐚 = cosθ implies 𝐧·𝐚 = 0 and 𝐛·𝐚 = sinθ, derive τ/κ = tanθ, and prove converse by showing constant τ/κ implies 𝐭·𝐚 is constant
  • Cross-cutting: Maintain dimensional consistency, state all assumptions explicitly (smooth wall, uniform hemisphere, inextensible string), and verify boundary conditions or special cases where applicable
Q8
50M solve Laplace transform and vector calculus

(a) Solve the following initial value problem by using Laplace transform technique : $$\frac{d^2y}{dt^2} - 4\frac{dy}{dt} + 3y(t) = f(t),$$ $y(0) = 1$, $y'(0) = 0$ and $f(t)$ is a given function of $t$. 15 (b) A particle is projected from an apse at a distance $\sqrt{c}$ from the centre of force with a velocity $\sqrt{\frac{2\lambda}{3}c^3}$ and is moving with central acceleration $\lambda(r^5 - c^2r)$. Find the path of motion of this particle. Will that be the curve $x^4 + y^4 = c^2$ ? 20 (c) For a scalar point function $\phi$ and vector point function $\vec{f}$, prove the identity $\nabla \cdot (\phi\vec{f}) = \nabla\phi \cdot \vec{f} + \phi(\nabla \cdot \vec{f})$. Also find the value of $\nabla \cdot \left(\frac{f(r)}{r}\vec{r}\right)$ and then verify stated identity. 15

Answer approach & key points

Solve this three-part numerical problem by allocating approximately 30% time to part (a) Laplace transform IVP, 40% to part (b) central force motion and orbit determination, and 30% to part (c) vector calculus identity proof and verification. Begin with clear statement of given conditions, apply appropriate mathematical techniques systematically, show all computational steps explicitly, and conclude with precise final answers for each sub-part.

  • Part (a): Correct application of Laplace transform to second-order ODE with proper handling of initial conditions y(0)=1, y'(0)=0 and symbolic f(t)
  • Part (a): Accurate partial fraction decomposition and inverse Laplace transform to obtain complete solution y(t)
  • Part (b): Correct formulation of central force problem using Binet's equation or energy equation, identifying the given acceleration λ(r⁵ - c²r)
  • Part (b): Derivation of orbital equation and verification whether the path satisfies x⁴ + y⁴ = c² through polar to Cartesian conversion
  • Part (c): Rigorous proof of vector identity ∇·(φf⃗) = ∇φ·f⃗ + φ(∇·f⃗) using component-wise expansion or index notation
  • Part (c): Correct computation of ∇·(f(r)/r · r⃗) using spherical/polar coordinate formulas and explicit verification of the identity

Paper II

8 questions · 400 marks
Q1
50M Compulsory examine Group theory, ideals, series convergence, complex analysis, linear programming

(a) Let G be a group of order 10 and G′ be a group of order 6. Examine whether there exists a homomorphism of G onto G′. (10 marks) (b) Express the ideal 4Z + 6Z as a principal ideal in the integral domain Z. (10 marks) (c) Test the convergence of the series $$\sum\limits_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{1.3.5...(2n-1)}{2.4.6...(2n)} \cdot \frac{x^{2n+1}}{(2n+1)}, \quad x > 0$$ (10 marks) (d) State the sufficient conditions for a function $f(z) = f(x+iy) = u(x,y) + iv(x,y)$ to be analytic in its domain. Hence, show that $f(z) = \log z$ is analytic in its domain and find $\frac{df}{dz}$ (10 marks) (e) A person requires 24, 24 and 20 units of chemicals A, B and C respectively for his garden. Product P contains 2, 4 and 1 units of chemicals A, B and C respectively per jar and product Q contains 2, 1 and 5 units of chemicals A, B and C respectively per jar. If a jar of P costs ₹ 30 and a jar of Q costs ₹ 50, then how many jars of each should be purchased in order to minimize the cost and meet the requirements? (10 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Examine each sub-part systematically with equal time allocation (~20% per part) since all carry 10 marks. Begin with clear statements of theorems/conditions for (a), (b), (d); show complete computational steps for (c) and (e). Structure as: direct response to each sub-part labeled (a)-(e), with concise justification for theoretical parts and detailed working for computational parts. No separate introduction or conclusion needed.

  • For (a): Apply First Isomorphism Theorem to show no onto homomorphism exists since gcd(10,6)=2 but 6∤10, or use Lagrange's theorem on kernel/image orders
  • For (b): Use property that 4Z + 6Z = gcd(4,6)Z = 2Z, proving the sum is principal ideal generated by 2
  • For (c): Apply Raabe's test or Gauss test to determine convergence at x=1 (diverges) and x<1 (converges), with careful handling of the limit
  • For (d): State Cauchy-Riemann equations as sufficient conditions; verify u=log|z|, v=arg(z) satisfy them; derive df/dz = 1/z
  • For (e): Formulate LPP with objective minimize Z=30x+50y subject to 2x+2y≥24, 4x+y≥24, x+5y≥20, x,y≥0; solve by graphical method or simplex to get optimal solution at (8,4)
Q2
50M prove Group theory, Lagrange multipliers, contour integration

(a) Prove that a non-commutative group of order 2p, where p is an odd prime, must have a subgroup of order p. (15 marks) (b) Using the method of Lagrange's multipliers, find the minimum and maximum distances of the point P(2, 6, 3) from the sphere x² + y² + z² = 4. (15 marks) (c) Evaluate $\int_{0}^{2\pi} \frac{\cos 2\theta}{5+4\cos\theta} d\theta$ using contour integration. (20 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Begin with a clear statement of what is to be proved for part (a), then solve for (b) and (c). Allocate approximately 30% time to part (a) (group theory proof), 30% to part (b) (Lagrange multipliers), and 40% to part (c) (contour integration, highest marks). Structure as: (a) statement → application of Sylow/Cauchy theorems → conclusion; (b) setup of distance function and constraint → Lagrange equations → solving critical points; (c) contour setup → residue calculation → final evaluation. Conclude with boxed final answers for each part.

  • Part (a): Application of Cauchy's theorem or Sylow theorems to establish existence of element of order p, hence cyclic subgroup of order p
  • Part (a): Explicit use of non-commutativity to rule out cyclic group of order 2p, ensuring the subgroup of order p is proper
  • Part (b): Correct formulation of distance squared function D = (x-2)² + (y-6)² + (z-3)² with constraint g = x² + y² + z² - 4 = 0
  • Part (b): Setting up and solving the system ∇D = λ∇g with geometric interpretation that extrema occur along line through origin and P
  • Part (c): Substitution z = e^(iθ) to convert real integral to complex contour integral over unit circle |z|=1
  • Part (c): Correct identification of poles inside unit circle (at z = -1/2) and calculation of residue
  • Part (c): Evaluation of contour integral using residue theorem and extraction of real part to obtain final answer
Q3
50M solve Abstract algebra, complex analysis and linear programming

(a) Prove that x² + 1 is an irreducible polynomial in Z₃[x]. Further show that the quotient ring $\frac{Z_3[x]}{\langle x^2+1 \rangle}$ is a field of 9 elements. 15 marks (b) Prove that u(x, y) = eˣ(x cos y - y sin y) is harmonic. Find its conjugate harmonic function v(x, y) and express the corresponding analytic function f(z) in terms of z. 15 marks (c) Solve the following linear programming problem by Big M method : Minimize Z = 2x₁ + 3x₂ subject to x₁ + x₂ ≥ 9 x₁ + 2x₂ ≥ 15 2x₁ - 3x₂ ≤ 9 x₁, x₂ ≥ 0 Is the optimal solution unique? Justify your answer. 20 marks

Answer approach & key points

Solve this multi-part problem by proving results in (a) and (b) before applying computational methods in (c). Allocate approximately 30% time to part (a) on irreducibility and field construction, 30% to part (b) on harmonic functions and analytic construction, and 40% to part (c) on the Big M method LP solution including uniqueness analysis. Structure as: direct proofs for (a)-(b), systematic tableau operations for (c), with clear final verification of all claims.

  • For (a): Prove x²+1 has no roots in Z₃ (hence irreducible), then apply the theorem that F[x]/⟨p(x)⟩ is a field when p(x) is irreducible, counting 9 elements explicitly
  • For (b): Verify uₓₓ + uᵧᵧ = 0 using product rule differentiation, then find v(x,y) via Cauchy-Riemann equations or Milne-Thomson method, finally express f(z) = z·e^z
  • For (c): Convert minimization to standard form using surplus and artificial variables with Big M penalty, construct initial simplex tableau
  • For (c): Execute simplex iterations correctly, identifying entering and leaving variables at each pivot
  • For (c): State optimal solution with Z_min = 15 at (x₁, x₂) = (6, 3), and justify uniqueness by checking no alternative optimal solutions exist in final tableau
Q4
50M prove Real analysis, complex analysis and assignment problem

(a) Prove that the oscillation of a real-valued bounded function f defined on [a, b] is the supremum of the set {|f(x₁)-f(x₂)| : x₁, x₂ ∈ [a, b]}. 15 marks (b) Classify the singular point z = 0 of the function f(z) = e^z/(z-sin z) and obtain the principal part of its Laurent series expansion. 15 marks (c) A department head has 5 subordinates and 5 jobs to be performed. The time (in hours) that each subordinate will take to perform each job is given in the matrix below : How should the jobs be assigned, one to each subordinate, so as to minimize the total time? Also, obtain the total minimum time to perform all the jobs if the subordinate IV cannot be assigned job C. 20 marks

Answer approach & key points

Begin with a clear statement of definitions for oscillation, supremum, and bounded variation. For part (a), establish the equivalence through careful set-theoretic arguments showing ω(f) = sup|f(x₁)-f(x₂)|. For part (b), use Taylor series expansion to identify the order of the pole at z=0 and extract coefficients for the principal part. For part (c), apply the Hungarian algorithm to solve the 5×5 assignment problem, then re-optimize with the additional constraint. Allocate approximately 30% time to (a), 30% to (b), and 40% to (c) given its higher weightage and computational demand.

  • For (a): Correct definition of oscillation ω(f,[a,b]) = M-m where M=sup f, m=inf f; proof that this equals sup{|f(x₁)-f(x₂)|} through showing both inequalities
  • For (a): Demonstration that for any ε>0, there exist x₁,x₂ with f(x₁)>M-ε/2 and f(x₂)<m+ε/2, establishing the supremum attainment
  • For (b): Taylor expansion of sin z = z - z³/6 + z⁵/120 - ... and e^z = 1 + z + z²/2 + ... to determine z-sin z = z³/6 - z⁵/120 + ...
  • For (b): Identification of z=0 as a pole of order 2 (simple pole cancellation leaves z³ in denominator, e^z≈1), computation of Laurent series principal part coefficients a₋₁, a₋₂
  • For (c): Correct setup of cost matrix, application of Hungarian algorithm (row/column reduction, minimum lines covering zeros, matrix adjustments)
  • For (c): Optimal assignment without constraints and verification of optimality; modified solution with constraint IV≠C using branch-and-bound or re-optimization
  • For (c): Clear statement of minimum total time in both cases with proper units (hours)
Q5
50M Compulsory solve Partial differential equations, numerical methods, binary arithmetic, Hamiltonian mechanics, fluid dynamics

(a) By eliminating the arbitrary functions f and g from z = f(x² - y) + g(x² + y), form partial differential equation. (10 marks) (b) Given dy/dx = (y² - x)/(y² + x) with initial condition y = 1 at x = 0. Find the value of y for x = 0.4 by Euler's method, correct to 4 decimal places, taking step length h = 0.1. (10 marks) (c) Evaluate, using the binary arithmetic, the following numbers in their given system: (i) (634.235)₈ - (132.223)₈ (ii) (7AB.432)₁₆ - (5CA.D61)₁₆ (10 marks) (d) A planet of mass m is revolving around the sun of mass M. The kinetic energy T and the potential energy V of the planet are given by T = ½m(ṙ² + r²θ̇²) and V = GMm(1/2a - 1/r), where (r, θ) are the polar coordinates of the planet at time t, G is the gravitational constant and 2a is the major axis of the ellipse (the path of the planet). Find the Hamiltonian and the Hamilton equations of the planet's motion. (10 marks) (e) In a fluid motion, there is a source of strength 2m placed at z = 2 and two sinks of strength m are placed at z = 2 + i and z = 2 - i. Find the streamlines. (10 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve each sub-part systematically with clear working: for (a) apply partial differentiation to eliminate arbitrary functions; for (b) execute Euler's method with 4 iterations; for (c)(i)-(ii) perform octal and hexadecimal subtraction with borrowing; for (d) construct Hamiltonian from T-V and derive canonical equations; for (e) use complex potential for source-sink superposition. Allocate approximately 15% time to (a), 20% to (b), 20% to (c), 25% to (d), and 20% to (e), ensuring all numerical answers are boxed with correct precision.

  • For (a): Correctly identify arguments u = x² - y and v = x² + y, compute partial derivatives p = ∂z/∂x and q = ∂z/∂y, then eliminate f' and g' to obtain PDE: x(∂z/∂x) = 2(∂z/∂y) or equivalent second-order form
  • For (b): Apply Euler's formula y_{n+1} = y_n + hf(x_n, y_n) for 4 steps (x=0 to 0.4), showing each iteration with h=0.1, final answer y(0.4) ≈ 1.4615 (to 4 decimal places)
  • For (c)(i): Perform octal subtraction (634.235)₈ - (132.223)₈ = (502.012)₈ with proper borrowing across radix point
  • For (c)(ii): Perform hexadecimal subtraction (7AB.432)₁₆ - (5CA.D61)₁₆ = (1E0.871)₁₆ handling borrow from 16's complement
  • For (d): Form Hamiltonian H = T + V = ½m(p_r²/m² + p_θ²/(m²r²)) + GMm(1/2a - 1/r), derive ṙ = ∂H/∂p_r, θ̇ = ∂H/∂p_θ, ṗ_r = -∂H/∂r, ṗ_θ = -∂H/∂θ = 0
  • For (e): Construct complex potential W = 2m ln(z-2) - m ln(z-2-i) - m ln(z-2+i), extract stream function ψ = Im(W), obtain streamline equation or implicit form
Q6
50M solve Partial differential equations, numerical linear algebra, Lagrangian mechanics

(a) Find the surface passing through the two lines z = x = 0 and z-1 = x-y = 0, and satisfying the partial differential equation ∂²z/∂x² - 4∂²z/∂x∂y + 4∂²z/∂y² = 0. (15 marks) (b) Solve the system of linear equations 7x₁ - x₂ + 2x₃ = 11, 2x₁ + 8x₂ - x₃ = 9, x₁ - 2x₂ + 9x₃ = 7 correct up to 4 significant figures by the Gauss-Seidel iterative method. Take initially guessed solution as x₁ = x₂ = x₃ = 0. (15 marks) (c) A mechanical system with 2 degrees of freedom has the Lagrangian L = ½m(ẋ² + ẏ²) - ½m(w₁²x² + w₂²y²) + kxy where m, w₁, w₂, k are constants. Find the parameter θ so that under the transformation x = q₁ cos θ - q₂ sin θ, y = q₁ sin θ + q₂ cos θ the Lagrangian in terms of q₁, q₂ will not contain the product term q₁q₂. Find the Lagrange's equations w.r.t. q₁ and q₂ independent of parameter θ. (20 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve all three sub-parts systematically: for (a) use Monge's auxiliary equations to find the general solution and apply boundary conditions; for (b) apply Gauss-Seidel iteration with proper convergence check to 4 significant figures; for (c) transform coordinates, eliminate cross terms by choosing θ = ½ tan⁻¹(2k/(m(w₁²-w₂²))), then derive uncoupled Lagrange equations. Allocate time proportionally: ~30% to (a), ~30% to (b), and ~40% to (c) given mark distribution.

  • For (a): Recognize PDE as parabolic type (B²-AC=0), use characteristic coordinates ξ=y+2x, η=y to reduce to canonical form and obtain general solution z = f(y+2x) + x·g(y+2x)
  • For (a): Apply boundary conditions on lines z=x=0 and z-1=x-y=0 to determine arbitrary functions f and g, yielding specific surface equation
  • For (b): Verify diagonal dominance of coefficient matrix, rewrite equations in iterative form, execute Gauss-Seidel iterations until convergence to 4 significant figures
  • For (c): Transform kinetic and potential energy terms using rotation matrix, collect coefficients of q₁q₂ and set to zero to find tan(2θ) = 2k/(m(w₁²-w₂²))
  • For (c): Obtain diagonalized Lagrangian L = ½m(Ω₁²q̇₁² + Ω₂²q̇₂²) - ½m(Ω₁²q₁² + Ω₂²q₂²) and derive two independent harmonic oscillator equations
  • For (c): Express final frequencies Ω₁² = ω₁²cos²θ + ω₂²sin²θ - (k/m)sin2θ and Ω₂² = ω₁²sin²θ + ω₂²cos²θ + (k/m)sin2θ in terms of original parameters
Q7
50M solve Boolean functions, mechanics, partial differential equations

(a) (i) Find the conjunctive normal form (CNF) of the following Boolean function: f(x, y, z, t) = x · y · z + x̄ · y · (t + z̄) (15 marks) (ii) Express the Boolean function f(x, y, z) = x + (x̄ · ȳ + x̄ · z) + z in disjunctive normal form (DNF) and construct the truth table for the function. (15 marks) (b) A perfectly rough ball is at rest within a hollow cylindrical roller. The roller is drawn along a level path with uniform velocity V. Let a and b be the radii of the ball and the roller respectively. If V² > 27/7 g(b-a), then show that the ball will roll completely round the inside of the roller. (15 marks) (c) Solve the partial differential equation a² ∂²u/∂x² = ∂²u/∂t², 0 < x < L, t > 0 subject to the conditions u(0,t) = 0, u(L,t) = 0, t > 0; u(x,0) = x, (∂u/∂t)ₜ₌₀ = 1, 0 < x < L. (20 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve this multi-part numerical problem by allocating approximately 30% time to part (a)(i) CNF conversion, 30% to part (a)(ii) DNF and truth table, 20% to part (b) mechanics proof, and 20% to part (c) wave equation solution. Begin with Boolean algebra manipulations using De Morgan's laws and canonical forms, then proceed to the constrained motion analysis with energy and angular momentum conservation, and finally apply separation of variables with Fourier series for the PDE. Present each sub-part clearly with proper mathematical notation and logical flow.

  • For (a)(i): Apply De Morgan's laws and distributive laws to convert f(x,y,z,t) = xyz + x̄y(t+z̄) into CNF; identify maxterms where f=0 and express as product of sums
  • For (a)(ii): Simplify f(x,y,z) = x + (x̄ȳ + x̄z) + z using Boolean identities, convert to DNF as sum of minterms, and construct complete 8-row truth table
  • For (b): Set up Lagrangian for ball in rolling cylinder with constraint of rolling without slipping; derive energy equation and condition for complete loop using effective potential
  • For (c): Apply separation of variables u(x,t) = X(x)T(t) to wave equation; determine eigenvalues λn = nπ/L and eigenfunctions sin(nπx/L); apply initial conditions u(x,0)=x and ut(x,0)=1 to find Fourier coefficients
  • For (c): Compute Fourier sine series coefficients bn = (2/L)∫₀ᴸ x sin(nπx/L)dx and cn = (2/nπa)∫₀ᴸ sin(nπx/L)dx for the complete solution
Q8
50M solve PDE canonical form, numerical methods, Navier-Stokes equations

(a) Reduce the partial differential equation ∂²z/∂y² - ∂²z/∂x∂y + ∂z/∂x - ∂z/∂y(1+1/x) + z/x = 0 to canonical form. (15 marks) (b) Compute a root of the equation log₁₀(2x+1) - x² + 3 = 0, in the interval [0, 3], by Regula-Falsi method, correct to 6 decimal places. (15 marks) (c) Determine under what conditions the velocity field u = c(x² - y²), v = -2cxy, w = 0 is a solution to the Navier-Stokes momentum equations. Assuming that the conditions are met, determine the resulting pressure distribution, when z is up and the external body forces are Bₓ = 0 = Bᵧ, Bᵤ = -g. (20 marks)

Answer approach & key points

Solve this three-part numerical problem by allocating approximately 30% time to part (a) on PDE canonical reduction, 30% to part (b) on Regula-Falsi root-finding, and 40% to part (c) on Navier-Stokes verification and pressure determination. Begin with clear identification of equation types, proceed through systematic derivations and iterative calculations, and conclude with boxed final answers for each sub-part.

  • Part (a): Correct classification of the second-order PDE and identification of characteristic curves to transform to canonical form
  • Part (a): Proper substitution of new variables and reduction to standard canonical form (parabolic/hyperbolic/elliptic)
  • Part (b): Verification that f(0)·f(3) < 0 for root existence and correct Regula-Falsi iteration formula setup
  • Part (b): Iterative computation showing convergence to 6 decimal places with clear tabulation of iterations
  • Part (c): Verification of continuity equation (∇·u = 0) as necessary condition for Navier-Stokes solution
  • Part (c): Substitution into momentum equations to determine constraints on c and fluid properties
  • Part (c): Integration of pressure gradients to obtain p(x,y,z) with proper incorporation of body force B_z = -g

Practice any of these questions

Write your answer, get it evaluated against UPSC's real rubric in seconds.

Start free evaluation →