The determinant of the given matrix is $17$. Therefore, the correct answer is C. 17.

Would you like more details on how the determinant was calculated, or do you have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

1. What is the general formula for calculating the determinant of a 3x3 matrix?
2. How does changing one row of a matrix affect its determinant?
3. Can the determinant of a matrix help in solving systems of linear equations?
4. What is the geometric significance of the determinant of a matrix?
5. How can we use cofactor expansion to compute the determinant of a larger matrix?

Tip: If a matrix has two identical rows, its determinant is always zero!