Finding where the plane intersects the x,y,z axes

  • Thread starter Thread starter VooDoo
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Axes Plane
Join the discussion
Registration is free. Ask a follow-up in this thread, or start your own.
3 replies · 12K views
VooDoo
Messages
58
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The plane defined by x + 2y + 3z = 12 and the point P(4,6,8)
Find where the plane intersects the x,y and z axes

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know where to start, I can vaugely remember that the variable t is brought into the equation, but I am really stuck. Your help is appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If a point (x,y,z) is on, e.g. the x-axis, what are y and z?
 
Oh, yeah, and your point P is NOT on the plane. Do you want the plane parallel to the given one and passing through P? Reread the question.
 
You can try to get the equation in the intercept form [tex]x/a+y/b+z/c=1[/tex] where (a,0,0) (0,b,0) and (0,0,c) are the intercepts on the x, y, and z axes. HINT: Divide by 12.