Equation for Equidistant Points Between Two Given Points

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding an equation that represents the set of all points equidistant from two given points A(-1,5,3) and B(6,2,-2) in three-dimensional space. The original poster is seeking clarification on how to derive this equation and describe the resulting set.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the nature of the solution, with one suggesting that the result is a plane rather than a line, and questioning how to derive the equation for this plane. Others express uncertainty about the calculations needed and the relevant formulas, including potential connections to vector projections.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between the points and the geometric representation, but there is no explicit consensus on the method to derive the equation.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need to consider distance squared from a point to each of the given points, but participants are uncertain about the specific calculations and formulas required to proceed.

jaredmt
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Homework Statement


Find an equation of the set of all points equidistant from the points A(-1,5,3) and B(6,2,-2). Describe the set


Homework Equations


dot product
cross product

The Attempt at a Solution


the book found the line: 14x - 6y - 10z = 9 which is perpendicular and i guess cuts in half way between the two dots.
i know that u take 2 lines and multiply them using dot product and it needs to equal 0 for them to be perpendicular. but i only know how to do that with 2 lines with endpoints... idk how to do this since i have 2 end points and i need to figure out an equation.

if any1 can explain how the book got that equation or even explain how to get any correct answer, that would definitely help. thanks
 
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That looks more like a plane in 3D space rather than a line. It's easy to see why it's a plane and not a line, considering two points in space and a line joining them. A plane situated equidistant from the two points and normal to the connecting line would represent the locus of points which are equidistant from the 2 points. You can't represent a line in 3D space with a single equation unless it's a vector equation.

A plane is associated with a normal vector to it and an arbitrary point on the plane. Can you see how to get both?
 
ok I am not sure what calculations I am supposed to make to get this answer. I am a little clueless right now

does it have anything to do with vector project or scalar project? idk what formulas I am supposed to be using on this 1
 
If you want to take the direct route just write an equation that says that the distance squared from a point (x,y,z) to (-1,5,3) equals the distance to (6,2,-2) and simplify it.
 

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