Finding a vector parallel to a plane

In summary, to find a vector parallel to a plane, you can use the information of a vector that is perpendicular to the plane. This can be done by finding vectors that are perpendicular to the perpendicular vector. Alternatively, you can also consider the perspective of a plane as a set of vectors perpendicular to a given fixed vector.
  • #1
stratusfactio
22
0

Homework Statement


Just a general question for studying purposes. How do you find a vector parallel to a plane?

Let's say that we have a plane [tex]2x-3y-z=0[/tex]...I know that the perpendicular vector to this plane is [tex]<2,-3,-1>[/tex] but how do I use this information to determine a parallel vector?
 
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  • #2
Well, you know of a vector that forms a right angle, i.e., is perpendicular to, the plane, so how would you find vectors that are perpendicular to the perpendicular?

O.K, it's a mouthful. Consider a plane parallel to 2x-3y-z=0. What would be its equation? Remember the perspective of a plane as a set of vectors perpendicular
to a given fixed vector.
 

1. What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude (size) and direction. It is represented by an arrow and is commonly used in physics and engineering to describe quantities such as velocity, force, and displacement.

2. What is a plane?

A plane is a flat, two-dimensional surface that extends infinitely in all directions. In mathematics, a plane is defined by three points or a point and a normal vector (a vector perpendicular to the plane).

3. How do you find a vector parallel to a plane?

To find a vector parallel to a plane, you can use the cross product of two vectors that lie on the plane. The resulting vector will be perpendicular to the plane, so you can then take the cross product again with the normal vector of the plane to get a parallel vector.

4. Can a plane have multiple parallel vectors?

Yes, a plane can have an infinite number of parallel vectors. As long as the vector is parallel to the plane, it will lie on the plane and be considered a parallel vector.

5. Why is finding a vector parallel to a plane important?

Finding a vector parallel to a plane is important in many fields of science and engineering. It can be used to describe the orientation and direction of an object in space, calculate forces and velocities, and solve problems involving planes and their intersections. It is also a fundamental concept in linear algebra and vector calculus.

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