Calcuating the magnitude of a binormal vector (B)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the magnitude of a binormal vector, denoted as B(t), which is defined as the cross product of the tangent unit vector T(t) and the unit normal vector N(t). Participants are exploring the properties of this vector and its relationship to the tangent and normal vectors.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are examining the geometric definition of the cross product and its implications for the perpendicularity of B(t) to T(t) and N(t). There is discussion about the magnitude of B(t) and whether it can be inferred from its definition as a unit vector.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the properties of the binormal vector, with one suggesting that since B(t) is a unit vector, its magnitude should be 1. Others are reflecting on the implications of the cross product in this context.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing exploration of the definitions and properties of the vectors involved, with some participants questioning the assumptions related to the magnitudes of T(t) and N(t) as unit vectors.

mr_coffee
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Hello everyone, I was suppose to show B(t) = T(t) x N(t) is perpendicular to both T(t) and N(t). I'm also to find |B(t)| which is the magnitude of B(t). B stands for a Binormal vector. T is the tagnent unit vector and N is the unit normal. The vector b(t) = T(t) x N(t) is perpendicualr to both T and N and is also a unit vector. Well i got the first part i think, but I don't know how I'm suppose to find the magnitude of B(t), any ideas? Here is my proof and work for the first part, maybe that will help figure out what he wants me to find for part (b).
http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/8076/88eb1.jpg
if that link is slow, this one also has my work:
http://show.imagehosting.us/show/764387/0/nouser_764/T0_-1_764387.jpg
Thanks!

Also, i just thought...because it said the binormal vector is also a unit vector, doens't that mean that |B(t)| = 1? Because I know |T(t)| = 1, and T is also a unit vector.
 
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The question is rather trivial if you look at the geometrical definition of a cross product. If A,B are vectors, then A X B is a vector perpendicular to A and B. It's in the definition. If A and B are perpendicular, then |A X B|=|A||B|. This also follows directly from the definition.
 
Well i was wondering what |B(t)| is equal too, that does make sense though but this will make him happy that's why I did it that way
 
My idea was right, since B is a unit vector its magnitude is 1.
 

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