Can you give a more specific question?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding two unit vectors, u1 and u2, that lie in the plane defined by the equation x - y + z = 0 and are not parallel. The initial attempt involved using the normal vector <1, -1, 1>, which was correctly identified as not lying in the plane. The solution emphasizes selecting values for x and y that satisfy the plane's equation, leading to valid vectors. For instance, choosing (1, 0) and (0, 1) provides the necessary coordinates to derive the unit vectors.

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kskiraly
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Homework Statement



Find 2 unit vectors u1, u2, lying in the plane, x-y+z=0, which are not parallel to each other.

The Attempt at a Solution



I've tried taking the unit vector of the normal vector <1,-1,1> which is <1/rad(3),-1/rad(3),1/rad(3)>, but my teacher has told me it is not in the plane.

Then for my second vector, I created a parallel vector, but then I reread the question and found out they are not supposed to be parallel.
 
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kskiraly said:

Homework Statement



Find 2 unit vectors u1, u2, lying in the plane, x-y+z=0, which are not parallel to each other.

The Attempt at a Solution



I've tried taking the unit vector of the normal vector <1,-1,1> which is <1/rad(3),-1/rad(3),1/rad(3)>, but my teacher has told me it is not in the plane.
Yes, obviously. x- y+ z= (1-(-1)+ 1)/rad(3)= rad(3) not 0! You are aware, I am sure, that the normal vector to a plane is not in the plane! (If you are not, reread the definition of "normal vector".)

Then for my second vector, I created a parallel vector, but then I reread the question and found out they are not supposed to be parallel.
A very good case for always rereading the question (several times)! Yes, it says "not parallel".

To find a vector in the plane x- y+ z= 0, look for values of x, y, z that satisfy that equation. There are, of course, an infinite number of such choices. You can choose any values you like for x and y, for example, and then solve the equation for z. 1 and 0 are good, simple, choices.
If x= 1 and y= 0, then z must satisfy 1- 0+ z= 0.
If x= 0 and y= 1, then z must satisfy 0- 1+ z= 0.

Now form unit vectors from <x, y, z> and show that they are not parallel.
 

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