How Can I Find the 4th Coordinate of a Parallelogram in 3D Space?

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    Parallelogram Space
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the fourth coordinate of a parallelogram in 3D space when given the coordinates of three vertices. Participants explore various methods and concepts related to geometry in three dimensions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the method to find the fourth coordinate, suggesting the use of distance and direction angles.
  • Another participant proposes using the property that opposite sides of a parallelogram are parallel and equal in magnitude, implying a vector approach.
  • A third participant clarifies the concept by referring to a parallelepiped, stating that three vertices provide three vectors that define the shape, and that adding these vectors to one vertex can yield the opposite vertex.
  • A later reply questions the understanding of vectors involved, noting that with three vertices, only two vectors are known, and one vector represents a diagonal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the interpretation of the problem, particularly regarding the number of vectors defined by three vertices and how to approach finding the fourth coordinate. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

There is ambiguity regarding the definitions of the shapes discussed (parallelogram vs. parallelepiped) and the implications of the vectors formed by the given vertices. Some assumptions about the geometric properties and relationships are not fully articulated.

yourmom98
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i am given the (x,y,z) coordinates of 3 sides of a parallelogram how do i go about finding the 4 coordinate. do i find the distance between points using the same way to find vectors then try to find direction angles or something like that? because there is no slope or anything to compare too. Also any tips about geometry in 3 space would be greatly appreciated
 
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Could you use the fact that opposite sides of a parallelogram are parallel and equal in magnitude (basically, the same vector)?
 
You mean, I presume, a parallelpiped, the 3 dimensional analog of a parallelogram. If you are given three vertices, then you know three vectors that form the sides of the parallelpiped. Adding the three vectors to one vertex will give you the opposite vertex.
 
Thanks HallsofIvy for correcting me. But i don't understand if I am given 3 vertices i would only know 2 vectors that form the parallelepiped and one vector that is a diagonal of the parallelepiped.
 

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