Find a point in a line closest to another point

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the point on a line defined by two points, P and Q, that is closest to a third point, R. The context is within three-dimensional geometry and vector analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the equation of the line and seeks hints for finding the closest point to R. Some participants discuss the geometric property that the vector from the closest point on the line to point R is perpendicular to the line itself. Others explore the implications of this perpendicularity using dot products.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, exploring the relationship between the points and the line. Some have proposed conditions based on vector relationships, while others are questioning the correctness of their reasoning and calculations. There is no explicit consensus on the final answer yet.

Contextual Notes

There is an emphasis on understanding the geometric properties of the situation, particularly regarding perpendicular vectors and dot products. The discussion reflects a mix of attempts at solution and verification of reasoning without providing a definitive answer.

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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...
 

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