Equation of a plane multipled by a constant.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a vector perpendicular to a plane defined by three points A(1,2,3), B(0,1,2), and C(2,3,-1), as well as the equation of that plane. The notation used for the plane, referred to as pi(A,B,C), raises questions among participants regarding its meaning and implications.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to determine the normal vector and the equation of the plane, while questioning the notation pi(A,B,C) and its relation to the mathematical constant pi. Some express confusion about whether the notation implies a different meaning or if it is simply a naming convention for the plane.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of the notation and its implications, with some participants suggesting that it is merely a naming convention to avoid confusion with the letter P. Multiple interpretations of the notation are being discussed, and some guidance has been offered regarding the understanding of the plane's equation.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the question is derived from a review sheet for an upcoming exam, which may influence their interpretations and the urgency of clarifying the concepts involved.

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Homework Statement


Given the points A(1,2,3) B(0,1,2) and C(2,3,-1) find:
a.) a vector perpendicular to the plane pi(A,B,C)
b.) the equation of the plane pi(A,B,C)

The Attempt at a Solution


a.) ∏<5,-5,0>
b.)∏(x-y)=∏

Am I incorrect in assuming that I would find the normal vector and plane equations as normal and multiply the result by Pi? The question seems counter-intuitive to me because couldn't Pi be factored out at anytime?

Thanks in advance
 
Last edited:
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shamus390 said:

Homework Statement


Given the points A(1,2,3) B(0,1,2) and C(2,3,-1) find:
a.) a vector perpendicular to the plane pi(A,B,C)
b.) the equation of the plane pi(A,B,C)


The Attempt at a Solution


a.) ∏<5,-5,0>
b.)∏(x-y)=∏

Am I incorrect in assuming that I would find the normal vector and plane equations as normal and multiply the result by Pi? The question seems counter-intuitive to me because couldn't Pi be factored out at anytime?

Thanks in advance

I have never seen the notation Pi(A,B,C) for a plane. What does that mean? Do you mean the equation of the plane passing through the given three points? If so, ##\pi## doesn't have anything to do with it.
 
shamus390 said:

Homework Statement


Given the points A(1,2,3) B(0,1,2) and C(2,3,-1) find:
a.) a vector perpendicular to the plane pi(A,B,C)
b.) the equation of the plane pi(A,B,C)





The Attempt at a Solution


a.) ∏<5,-5,0>
b.)∏(x-y)=∏

Am I incorrect in assuming that I would find the normal vector and plane equations as normal and multiply the result by Pi? The question seems counter-intuitive to me because couldn't Pi be factored out at anytime?

Thanks in advance

I think the question is just using the notation 'pi(A,B,C)' to mean the plane through the points A, B and C. I don't think it's supposed to be the number pi.
 
Dick said:
I think the question is just using the notation 'pi(A,B,C)' to mean the plane through the points A, B and C. I don't think it's supposed to be the number pi.
I agree with Dick that ∏(A, B, C) is just notation that identifies a plane.
 
So essentially he is using ∏ to name the plane? Either I'm misunderstanding or this was a strange question (its from a review sheet for an exam Thursday).
 
Last edited:
That's what Dick and I think. Instead of identifying it as P(A, B, C), the instructor used the equivalent Greek letter to (possibly) prevent you from thinking the P stood for "point."
 
Mark44 said:
That's what Dick and I think. Instead of identifying it as P(A, B, C), the instructor used the equivalent Greek letter to (possibly) prevent you from thinking the P stood for "point."

And the equation of your plane isn't quite correct in any event.
 
Ah, dropped the negative sign, is x-y=-1 correct?
 
shamus390 said:
Ah, dropped the negative sign, is x-y=-1 correct?

Yep.
 
  • #10
Thanks to both of you.
 

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