Finding parametric equations of a tangent line

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To find the parametric equations of the tangent line at the point (-2,2,4) for the curve of intersection between the surface z=2x²-y² and the plane z=4, one must first calculate the gradients of both surfaces. The gradients provide normal vectors, and the tangent line will be perpendicular to these normals. A cross product of the two normal vectors can be used to determine the direction of the tangent line. It's important to ensure that the gradients are correctly defined as vectors. Clarifying these concepts is essential for accurately solving the problem.
grog
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Homework Statement



Find parametric equations of the tangent line at the point (-2,2,4) to the curve of intersection of the surface z=2x2-y2 and the plane z=4

Homework Equations



Not sure


The Attempt at a Solution



Not sure quite how to approach this. take the gradient of 2x^2-y^2 and just plug for x=rcos\Theta and y=r sin\Theta ?

That seems too simple..
 
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The gradient gives you a normal direction for each surface. Then the tangent is perpendicular to both normals. How can you find a vector perpendicular to two other vectors?
 
so I would end up with 4x-2y and zero for the two normal vectors? and then take the cross product of the two? I think I may be confusing some concepts here.
 
grog said:
so I would end up with 4x-2y and zero for the two normal vectors? and then take the cross product of the two? I think I may be confusing some concepts here.

Probably. The gradient is a vector. Those don't look like vectors. Better check the definition of 'gradient'.
 
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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