Calculating x for Perpendicular Vectors A and B: Dot and Cross Product Homework

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the value of x for two vectors A and B, given that a third vector C is perpendicular to both. The vectors are defined as A=(x,3,1) and B=(x,-x,2), with C specified as C=(10,-4,-4).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using both the cross product and dot product to find the value of x. There are questions about the validity of the approaches and whether the problem might be misprinted, as different values for x are obtained from the dot product calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning the correctness of the problem setup and the calculations presented. Some guidance has been offered regarding the complexity of the cross product approach, suggesting a simpler method may be available.

Contextual Notes

There are indications that the problem may contain errors, as participants note discrepancies in the values of x obtained from different methods. Additionally, there is a mention of difficulties in sharing visual aids to support the discussion.

Outrageous
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Homework Statement


A=(x,3,1) ,B=(x,-x,2)
Determine the value of x if the vector perpendicular to A and B is given by C=(10,-4,-4)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Find A cross B , let A cross B be D . Then D cross C = zero (since they are perpendicular to both A and B) . This sounds logic but there will not be an answer for x. What is wrong?
Then I tried to use dot product A dot C=0, and B dot C=0. Yet the answer of two x are different.
Please guide. Thanks
 
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You haven't shown your calculations. But perhaps there is no real value of x that works. Perhaps the problem is mis-printed or copied incorrectly.
 
LCKurtz said:
You haven't shown your calculations. But perhaps there is no real value of x that works. Perhaps the problem is mis-printed or copied incorrectly.

So the both ways to solve the problem are correct?
 
Outrageous said:
So the both ways to solve the problem are correct?

I didn't say that. I haven't worked the problem; that's your job. If you want me to comment on what you did you need to show your work.
 
The first way
 

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Sorry a, my camera not good.
 
Please look at the picture, I don't know why I can't upload more picture.
The second way, A dot C = 0 , x= 1.6
B dot C = 0 , x= 0.4
Thanks
 
Last edited:
I won't try to read upside down. But if your arithmetic is correct and you get different values for ##x##, that would tell you there is no solution. Like I said earlier, perhaps the problem is mis-printed or copied incorrectly.
 
Thanks
 
  • #10
I would like to remark that your approach with the cross product is over-complicated. Once you found C = A x B, and assume that C is parallel with D, you can say C = k D, where k is some number. You do not need to cross-multiply C and D, you just need to confirm that C = k D is possible.
 
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  • #11
voko said:
I would like to remark that your approach with the cross product is over-complicated. Once you found C = A x B, and assume that C is parallel with D, you can say C = k D, where k is some number. You do not need to cross-multiply C and D, you just need to confirm that C = k D is possible.

Really easier. But I think the question have some problems. Thank you.
 

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