Find the equation of the plane given point and line (3D)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the equation of a plane that contains the point (1,-1,2) and the line defined by the parametric equations x=t, y=t+1, z=-3+2t. The solution involves identifying two vectors in the plane, constructing their cross product to obtain a normal vector, and applying the plane equation formula A(x - x0) + B(y - y0) + C(z - z0) = 0. The participants emphasize the importance of correctly identifying points on the line and ensuring the correct orientation of the normal vector to avoid sign errors in the final equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 3D geometry and vector operations
  • Familiarity with parametric equations of lines
  • Knowledge of cross product and its geometric interpretation
  • Ability to apply the plane equation formula in 3D space
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector cross product calculations in detail
  • Learn how to derive equations of planes from points and lines in 3D
  • Explore examples of finding normals to planes using displacement vectors
  • Practice solving similar problems involving planes and lines in 3D geometry
USEFUL FOR

Students studying 3D geometry, mathematics educators, and anyone looking to enhance their understanding of vector calculus and plane equations.

alexandra2727
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∴1. Homework Statement
Find an equation for the plane that contains the point (1,-1,2) and the line x=t, y=t+1, z=-3+2t?
2. Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know what I am doing wrong but everytime I try to do these plane questions my amswer is always the opposite sign of the real answer.

P1(7,0,1)
P2(7,3,0)

P1P2 (0,3,-1)
n(7,-1,2)

P1P2 crossproducted with n = (5,-7,-21)

∴ 5(x-7)-7y-21(z-1)=0
 
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Where are your P1 and P2 coming from?
alexandra2727 said:
P1P2 crossproducted with n = (5,-7,-21)
Are you crossing P1P2 vector with the normal vector?
 
alexandra2727 said:
∴1. Homework Statement
Find an equation for the plane that contains the point (1,-1,2) and the line x=t, y=t+1, z=-3+2t?
2. Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know what I am doing wrong but everytime I try to do these plane questions my amswer is always the opposite sign of the real answer.

P1(7,0,1)
P2(7,3,0)

P1P2 (0,3,-1)
n(7,-1,2)

P1P2 crossproducted with n = (5,-7,-21)

∴ 5(x-7)-7y-21(z-1)=0
If you have a point ##P_0(x_0, y_0, z_0)## and a normal to the plane N = <A, B, C>, the equation of the plane is ##A(x - x_0) + B(y - y_0) + C(z - z_0) = 0##. This equation can be obtained by taking the dot product of N and a vector ##\vec{P_0P}##, where P(x, y, z) is an arbitrary point in the plane.

You're given a point, so you have some of the information you need. To get a normal to the plane, find two vectors that lie in the plane. For the first vector, find two points on the line, and construct a displacement vector between the two points. Call this ##\vec u##. To get another vector, construct a displacement vector between any point on the line and the given point. Call this ##\vec u##.
Take the cross product of ##\vec u## and ##\vec v##, which will give you a vector perpendicular to both ##\vec u## and ##\vec v## (and therefore be a normal to the plane).
 

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