Find a point in a line closest to another point

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To find the point on line L, defined by P(4,2,3) and Q(5,3,1), that is closest to point R(3,-5,5), the equation of the line was established as L = (x=4+t, y=2+t, z=3-2t). The closest point A(x,y,z) must satisfy the condition that the vector from A to R is perpendicular to line L, leading to the equation RA dot PQ = 0. After substituting the line equation into this condition, solving for t yields t = -2, resulting in the coordinates A(2,0,7). The calculations confirm that A is indeed the closest point on line L to point R.
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Homework Statement


Given p(4,2,3), Q(5,3,1), R(3,-5,5) and let L be a line that passes through P and Q
Find the coordinates of that point of the line L which is closest to the point R.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I found the equation of the line L= (x=4+t, y=2+t, z=3-2t) then i am unsure on how to find the coordinates closest to R.
Any hints on solving this will be appreciated.
Thanks in Advance
 
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the vector from the closest point of the line to the point will be perpindicular to the line (why?)
 
lanedance said:
the vector from the closest point of the line to the point will be perpindicular to the line (why?)
(
I think i got it now...

So if we let A(x,y,z) be the closest point from L to R. This condition must be satisfy: RA dot PQ= 0. SO RA = (3-x,-5-y,5-z).
And from the dot product, i get x+y-2z=-12. So, i sub in the L into the equation I just got and solve for t, and equal t=-2, yields x=2
y=0,z=7. So A is (2,0,7)?
Can someone correct me if i am wrong

Thanks
 
Last edited:
if vectors a & b are perpindicular then:
a x b is a non-zero vector
a . b is zero...
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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