Find Value of q for Unit Vector PQ: Homework Equation Solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the value of q in the context of vectors OP and OQ, where OP is defined as 2i + 3j and OQ as qi + 2qj. The original poster notes that the vector PQ, derived from these two points, must be a unit vector.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss how to derive the vector PQ from OP and OQ and the implications of ensuring it is a unit vector. There is uncertainty about the application of the unit vector concept to two different vectors and how to interpret the problem correctly.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered clarifications regarding the interpretation of the vector PQ and its direction. There is an ongoing exploration of how to apply the concept of unit vectors to the given vectors, with no consensus reached yet on the approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a separate problem involving a different variable p, which some participants suggest may relate to the current problem, adding to the complexity. The original poster expresses confusion about the relationship between the two problems and the directionality of the vector PQ.

Eryk
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Homework Statement



Given vector OP = 2i+3j, OQ = qi+2qj. How can i find the possible value for q?
note that PQ is a unit vector.


Homework Equations



Given (p-1)i + (2p-6)j having magnitude 10, find p

The Attempt at a Solution



From the formula, i was told that the unit vector can be obtain by dividing the vector by the modulus it self, however i have no idea how to apply that concept into 2 different vector, since the answer wasn`t correct when i tried them. please help me on this, thanks in advanced
 
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Eryk said:

Homework Statement



Given vector OP = 2i+3j, OQ = qi+2qj. How can i find the possible value for q?
note that PQ is a unit vector.


Homework Equations



Given (p-1)i + (2p-6)j having magnitude 10, find p

The Attempt at a Solution



From the formula, i was told that the unit vector can be obtain by dividing the vector by the modulus it self, however i have no idea how to apply that concept into 2 different vector, since the answer wasn`t correct when i tried them. please help me on this, thanks in advanced

So what are the coordinates of PQ? You have OP and OQ, so you should be able to find PQ.

Once you have found PQ, figure out what q needs to be so that PQ is a unit vector.

This part -- Given (p-1)i + (2p-6)j having magnitude 10, find p -- is a separate problem, right? How you have presented these problems is confusing.
 
Mark44 said:
-- Given (p-1)i + (2p-6)j having magnitude 10, find p --

it is actually hint given to me as how that i`m going to solve the q part, where it is also having two vector with one of it having p variable. i have no idea how it works either. as for the PQ, the question doesn`t state whether its P to Q or Q to P. so it is safe for me to take it as P to Q?
 
PQ means from P to Q. If the question asked for the vector from Q to P, they would have specified QP.
 
ok, thanks
 
By the way, Eryk: Welcome to PF !
 
SammyS said:
By the way, Eryk: Welcome to PF !

Thanks :)
 

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