How to Prove Vector Ratios BE:EF = 1:2 and CD:DF = 1:1?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving vector ratios BE:EF = 1:2 and CD:DF = 1:1 using vector proofs. The original poster shares a diagram and expresses uncertainty about how to approach the proof, mentioning concepts like linear independence.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest using position vectors and the section formula to express points B and D in terms of vectors A and C. There are hints about considering E as the origin and defining ratios for segments DF/CD and FE/EB.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided hints and guidance on how to set up the problem using position vectors and the section formula. However, the original poster expresses frustration and a desire for a complete solution, indicating a lack of understanding of the hints provided.

Contextual Notes

The original poster is under time pressure due to an upcoming test and is seeking clarity on the proof process, which may be affecting their ability to engage with the hints given.

Warr
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Hmm...having a problem with a proof here:

http://www.cuneo.us/tesmw/images/Warr/untitled.JPG

the information given is in the picture

I have to prove that BE:EF = 1:2, and also that CD:DF = 1:1

sorry if it is drawn badly, I did it quickly..but you get the idea.

This needs to be a vector proof. So I'm assuming it has to have something to do with linear independence, thought I don't exactly know how to do it. I'd appreciate if anyone could help me out.
 
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It won't help if i solve this problem for u

So i give u some hints which will start ur quest

Consider E as your origin With A and C as Position vectors(PV) a and b {bold represents vectors} write PV for B using section formula PV for D will be -a/2

Assume the ratio DF/CD=m and similarly for FE/EB=n

Now again using section formula find PV in terms of m And then in terms of n

Equate the two PV thus obtained And i hope u ur Q. will be concluded
 
I still can't get it :(

I really want to know how to do this...Can someone please just give me the full answer. I really think I'm missing something big here.
 
Last edited:
*Bump*

This is getting kind of urgent...I need to know this for a test tomorrow and I have no idea how to do it! =(
 
Sorry about all this bumping...but I am in dire need. Please, I'm begging someone to finish this >_<
 
Ok have u tried The hints i have given
 
Consider E as origin And PV of A(a) and C(c) where a and c are PV



now from section formula
PV of B(b)

[tex]\mbox{<b>b</b>} = \frac{\mbox{<b>a</b>}+\mbox{<b>c</b>}}{2}[/tex] and note the direction as well

Also PV for D(d) = - a/2 note down the direction

now consider the ratio CD:DF=1:m

Again from section formula PV for D is given by
[tex]=\frac{\mbox{<b>f</b>}+m\mbox{<b>b</b>}}{m+1} = - \frac{\mbox{<b>a</b>}}{2}[/tex]

After rearrangement u get
f= -(m+1)a/2 - mb ...1

Similarly consider BE:EF=1:n

for which PV of F
[tex](\mbox{<b>f</b>}) = n\mbox{<b>b</b>}=n \frac{\mbox{<b>a</b>}+\mbox{<b>c</b>}}{2}[/tex] ...2

Equatin 1 and 2
u get

[tex]\frac{n\mbox{<b>a</b>]}{2}+\frac{n\mbox{<b>b</b>}}{2}=-\frac{(m+1)\mbox{<b>a</b>}}{2} - m\mbox{<b>b</b>}[/tex]
Now from the properties of vectors or say uniqueness

We have
n=-(m+1) ...3
and n=-2m ...4

from 3&4
m=1 i.e CD:DF=1:1
n=2 i.e BE:EF=1:2
 
Last edited:
Here is the attachment for fig
 

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