Finding the Value of a Vertical Vector

[Loppyfoot]

Homework Statement

For what value(s) of t is <3t²-t³, 2t²> a vertical vector?

The Attempt at a Solution

I set them equal to each other, and received t=1. Is that what I am supposed to do?

 

[Whitishcube]

Well think about it. If a vector is vertical, what do we know about its x component?

 

[Loppyfoot]

Would it be coming off of it at a right angle? Could I use the Pythagorean Theorem?

 

[Whitishcube]

If a vector is vertical, meaning it points straight up along the y-axis in standard position, its x-component will have to be zero, or else it will not point exactly straight up.

 

[Loppyfoot]

Ok, so should I set:
3t²-t³= 0?
Then solve for t?

 

[Whitishcube]

Yes. Doing so should give you the correct answer.