Area of a triangle using vectors

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the area of triangle PQR defined by the points P = (1,1,1), Q = (0,3,1), and R = (0,1,4) using vector methods, specifically the cross product of vectors PQ and PR.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to verify their calculated area of the triangle using the formula involving the cross product of vectors. Some participants question the correctness of the cross product evaluation and suggest re-evaluating the components involved.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the evaluation of the cross product and its implications for the area calculation. There is a focus on ensuring the correct components are used in the cross product, with some guidance offered regarding the evaluation process.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a lost answer key, which adds uncertainty to the original poster's confidence in their solution. Additionally, there are indications of potential misunderstandings regarding vector components and calculations.

Calpalned
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## 1. Homework Statement
Let P = (1,1,1), Q = (0, 3, 1) and R = (0, 1, 4). Find the area of triangle PQR

Homework Equations


## \frac {|PQ × PR|}{2} ## = area (The crossproduct divided by two)

The Attempt at a Solution


I lost my answer key, so I want to check if my final answer of ## \frac {\sqrt {13}}{2} ## is right. Thanks everyone. If it isn't, I'll put up my work. ##
 
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Hey there Calpalned. I have worked the problem through, and I am not sure that your answer is correct. Are you sure you have evaluated the cross product correctly?
 
PhysyCola said:
Hey there Calpalned. I have worked the problem through, and I am not sure that your answer is correct. Are you sure you have evaluated the cross product correctly?

I took the cross product of ## <-1, 2, 0> ## and ## <-1, 0,3> ## and I got ## (0-0)-(-3-0)+(0--2) ## = ## <0, 3, 2> ## Taking the magnitude, I get the answer in my first post.
 
Calpalned said:
I took the cross product of ## <-1, 2, 0> ## and ## <-1, 0,3> ## and I got ## (0-0)-(-3-0)+(0--2) ## = ## <0, 3, 2> ## Taking the magnitude, I get the answer in my first post.
Not correct.

This should have vector components: ## (0-0)-(-3-0)+(0--2) ## . What you have is a scalar.

The x-component of the result, ##\ <0,\, 3,\, 2>\ ## is incorrect.
 

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