HELP easy algebra vector question please

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the vector a.b given the information that |a| = 3 and the vectors a and b are perpendicular to each other. One possible approach is to use the dot product to determine if two vectors are perpendicular, but further clarification is needed on the given information.
  • #1
vorcil
398
0
1. Find a.b given the following information
|a|=3

two vectors a.b are perpendicular to each other

b
|
|
|
|__________a


3. |a| = 3
a = squareroot of 3,

if B is a vector perpendicular to a,
dunno what to do from here,

quick response please
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
You want the dot product of two vectors that are perpendicular to each other?

What is the cosine of a right angle?

Does that give you any ideas?
 
  • #3
This doesn't make any sense. First you say the magnitude of the vector is 3, then you say it equals the square root of three?

Also, I see no question. (Might be the dot product as Dr.D suggests but I don't see it)
 
  • #4
Please don't post the same problem in two different forums. You also posted this in the Calculus and Beyond forum.
 
  • #5
One important application of "dot product" is determining if two vectors are perpendicular. Do you remember how?
 

1. What is a vector in algebra?

A vector in algebra is a mathematical object that has both magnitude and direction. It is represented by an arrow and can be used to represent physical quantities, such as velocity and force.

2. How do I solve an algebra vector question?

To solve an algebra vector question, you need to first identify the given vectors and their components. Then, use the appropriate vector operations (addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, etc.) to manipulate the vectors and find the desired solution.

3. What are the different types of vector operations?

The main types of vector operations are addition, subtraction, scalar multiplication, dot product, and cross product. Addition and subtraction involve combining or subtracting the components of two vectors to find a new vector. Scalar multiplication involves multiplying a vector by a scalar (a number) to change its magnitude. The dot product is a way to multiply two vectors to find a scalar value, while the cross product results in a vector that is perpendicular to the two original vectors.

4. Can vectors be negative in algebra?

Yes, vectors can be negative in algebra. This means that the vector points in the opposite direction of the positive version of the vector. For example, a vector with a magnitude of 5 and pointing in the positive x-direction would have a negative version with a magnitude of 5 and pointing in the negative x-direction.

5. Can I use algebra to solve real-world problems involving vectors?

Yes, algebra can be used to solve real-world problems involving vectors. Vectors are commonly used in physics and engineering to represent physical quantities and their relationships. By using algebraic methods, you can manipulate and solve for these quantities to solve real-world problems.

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