Finding vector perpendicular to other vectors

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a unit vector that is perpendicular to two given vectors, x = (1, 2, 3) and y = (-1, 0, 1). The subject area is vector mathematics, specifically focusing on vector operations and properties.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss starting points for the problem, with mentions of vector operations such as the dot product and cross product. There is an emphasis on reviewing vector properties and operations.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some offering guidance on vector operations. There is a recognition of the cross product as a relevant approach, and one participant has calculated a result but questions if further steps are needed.

Contextual Notes

One participant expresses uncertainty due to a lack of recent experience with vector mathematics, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge. There is a hint at the need for a review of vector operations.

amit25
Messages
28
Reaction score
0
Find vector having unit length perpendicular to both x and y. x=(1,2,3) and y=(-1,0,1)?

im not sure where to begin
 
Physics news on Phys.org
amit25 said:
Find vector having unit length perpendicular to both x and y. x=(1,2,3) and y=(-1,0,1)?

im not sure where to begin

Start with the properties of the vector operations that you know.
 
like the dot product? sorry i haven't done vectors in 2 years so I am rusty
 
amit25 said:
like the dot product? sorry i haven't done vectors in 2 years so I am rusty
Sounds like a review is in order :smile: Why don't you list the common vector operations and do a bit of research on their properties. Hint: concentrate on the two forms of vector multiplication.
 
okay so i think its the cross product and when i do it i get (2,-4,2), is that all? or is there something more
 
amit25 said:
okay so i think its the cross product and when i do it i get (2,-4,2), is that all? or is there something more

The cross product is the right choice, and your result is good.
 

Similar threads

Replies
26
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K