Calculus III Write the equation of the plane

In summary, the equation of a plane in Cartesian coordinates is given by Ax + By + Cz + D = 0, where A, B, and C are the coefficients of the plane's normal vector and D is the distance from the origin along the normal vector. The normal vector of a plane can be found using the cross product of two vectors that lie on the plane. The equation of a plane can also be written in vector form as r · n = p, where r is a position vector, n is the normal vector, and p is a constant. Three non-collinear points are needed to uniquely define a plane, and calculus is used in finding the equation of a plane through the concept of partial derivatives.
  • #1
shinobi12
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Homework Statement



Write the equation of the plane that contains the following two parrallel lines

R(t) = <1,0,3> + t<1,,4,-2> and E(t) = <2,3,0> + t<1,4,-2>


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I tried parameterizing of the equations that didnt seem to work. Please Help.
 
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  • #2
try finding a line that connects to some point on R(t) and E(t), you know that also falls on the plane. you also know that these two parallel lines fall on the plane. That should give you enough information to get z in terms of x and y, thus determining a plane.

~Lyuokdea
 

1. What is the equation of the plane in Cartesian coordinates?

The equation of a plane in Cartesian coordinates is given by Ax + By + Cz + D = 0, where A, B, and C are the coefficients of the plane's normal vector and D is the distance from the origin along the normal vector.

2. How do you find the normal vector of a plane?

To find the normal vector of a plane, you can use the cross product of two vectors that lie on the plane. The resulting vector will be perpendicular to both of the original vectors and thus will be the normal vector of the plane.

3. Can the equation of a plane be written in vector form?

Yes, the equation of a plane can also be written in vector form as r · n = p, where r is a position vector, n is the normal vector, and p is a constant.

4. How many points are needed to uniquely define a plane?

Three non-collinear points are needed to uniquely define a plane. This is because three points determine a plane and the normal vector of the plane can be found using the cross product of two vectors formed by these three points.

5. How is calculus used in finding the equation of a plane?

Calculus is used in finding the equation of a plane by using the concept of partial derivatives. By taking partial derivatives of the equation of the plane with respect to x, y, and z, the coefficients A, B, and C can be found, which are essential in defining the equation of the plane.

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