Calculate 2C*(3AxB) for Vectors A, B, and C

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the expression 2C*(3AxB) for the vectors A, B, and C, where A, B, and C are defined in terms of their components. The participants are exploring the operations involving vector cross products and scalar multiplication.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant attempts to calculate 2AxB but questions whether this aligns with the original problem statement. Others express confusion regarding the steps taken and the relevance of calculating 2A.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the correct approach to the problem. Some guidance has been provided regarding the nature of the cross product, but there is no consensus on how to proceed with the original question.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the original question may have been misunderstood, leading to calculations that do not directly address the problem posed. There is an indication of confusion regarding the operations involved in vector calculations.

jdawg
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Homework Statement


For the following three vectors, what is 2C*(3AxB)
A=3i+3j-4k
B=-3i+2j+3k
C=-6i-8j

**All of the capital letters are vectors**

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


2A=2(3i+3j-4k)
=6i+6j-8k

2AxB=(6i+6j-8k)*(-3i+2j+3k)

(6i)(-3i)+(6i)(2j)+(6i)(2k)+(6i)(-3i)+(6j)(2j)+(6j)(3k)+(-8k)(-3i)+(-8k)(2j)+(-8k)(3k)

(12k)+(-12j)+(18k)+(18i)+24j)+(16i)

34i+12j+30k

I don't really know what to do next, honestly I don't really understand what I did to get that far. I found an example problem and just kind of plugged stuff in... If you could explain to me how to work this problem that would be great!
 
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I'm confused. You ask what is 2C*(3AxB) and then you calculate 2AxB.
 
jdawg said:

Homework Statement


For the following three vectors, what is 2C*(3AxB)
A=3i+3j-4k
B=-3i+2j+3k
C=-6i-8j

**All of the capital letters are vectors**

The Attempt at a Solution


2A=2(3i+3j-4k)
=6i+6j-8k
Question, as written, does not call for 2A.

2AxB=(6i+6j-8k)*(-3i+2j+3k)

(6i)(-3i)+(6i)(2j)+(6i)(2k)+(6i)(-3i)+(6j)(2j)+(6j)(3k)+(-8k)(-3i)+(-8k)(2j)+(-8k)(3k)

(12k)+(-12j)+(18k)+(18i)+24j)+(16i)

34i+12j+30k

I don't really know what to do next, honestly I don't really understand what I did to get that far. I found an example problem and just kind of plugged stuff in... If you could explain to me how to work this problem that would be great!

Hmmm ... OK: You need quick primer lessons:

AxB indicates a cross product:


What the example you used did was start by multiplying out the brackets as usual ... then used the rules for the cross product of the unit vectors. so, using "x" to indicate cross product:
then ixi=jxj=kxk=0
and ixj=k, jxk=i, kxi=j
and kxj=-i, jxi=-k, ixk=-j
 
Last edited by a moderator:
SteamKing said:
I'm confused. You ask what is 2C*(3AxB) and then you calculate 2AxB.

Ohhh that might be part of my problem, I got this question mixed up with the example I was looking at.
 

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