Vector Algebra: Proving Mutually Perpendicular Vectors

In summary, the conversation discusses three vectors, a(v), b(v) and c(v), and their cross products. It is shown that b(mod) = 1 and a(mod) = c(mod), and that the three vectors are mutually perpendicular. The perpendicularity of c to both a and b is determined by the fact that c is the cross product of a and b. The conversation also references the use of the vector dot product and the formula for magnitude of vector product to further explain these relationships.
  • #1
physixguru
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Homework Statement



a(v), b(v) and c(v) are three vectors. if a(v) x b(v) = c(v) and b(v) x c(v)= a(v)
Show that b(mod)= 1 and a(mod)=c(mod) and the three vectors are mutually perpendicular.
(v) denotes vector and (mod) denotes magnitude.
2. Homework Equations [/]

NA.

The Attempt at a Solution



Got some of it.Need a bit more explanation.
 
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  • #2
To show that they are perpendicular, you need to show that [tex]\vec{a} \cdot \vec{b} = 0[/tex], since you already know that vector c is perpendicular to both a and b. See if you can apply this to what you are given.

As for the other two, one follows from the other. Just use the formula for magnitude of vector product on both given vector equations and compare them.

This should help:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vector_identities
 
  • #3
Thanks bro.How did you know if c was perpendicular to both?
 
  • #4
because C is the cross product of A and B, hence it must be perpendicular to both vectors.
 
  • #5
Thanks lord.I missed such a silly thing.
 

1. What is vector algebra?

Vector algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with the manipulation and representation of vectors in a geometric or algebraic way. It is used to solve problems involving quantities that have both magnitude and direction.

2. How do you prove two vectors are mutually perpendicular?

To prove that two vectors are mutually perpendicular, you need to show that their dot product is equal to zero. This means that the angle between the two vectors is 90 degrees and they form a right angle.

3. What is the dot product of two vectors?

The dot product of two vectors is a mathematical operation that results in a scalar quantity. It is calculated by multiplying the magnitudes of the two vectors and the cosine of the angle between them.

4. Can mutually perpendicular vectors exist in three-dimensional space?

Yes, mutually perpendicular vectors can exist in three-dimensional space. In fact, in three-dimensional space, three vectors can be mutually perpendicular to each other.

5. How is vector algebra used in real life?

Vector algebra has many real-life applications, including physics, engineering, and computer graphics. It is used to solve problems involving forces, velocity, acceleration, and motion. It is also used in GPS technology, 3D modeling, and video game programming.

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