Quick Vector Question

[padraig]

Hi, I haven't done vectors in a while and just wondering if someone could refresh my memory in solving this question for me:

line 1: r = (i + 2j - 3k) + m(4i - 5j -3k)

line 2: r = (4i - 4j + 3k) + n(i - 2j + 2k)

Point C with pos. vector (2i - k) lies on line 2. Find the shortest distance from C to line 1

Cheers, ul probs find this no probs!

Pat

[arildno]

the line segment joining C with a point P on line 1 must be normal on line 1 in order to yield the shortest distance

[HallsofIvy]

Check the wording of the problem again. It is fairly straight forward to find the distance from point C to line 1 (most calculus books have a formula) and line 2 is completely irrelevant- but C is NOT on line 2!