How Do You Formulate the Vector Equation for a Line Given a Point and Direction?

  • Thread starter Thread starter styxrihocc
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Line Vector
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The vector equation for a line passing through the point (1,3,4) and parallel to a line through (5,1,2) is formulated as <1,3,4> + t<5,1,2>. The correct representation simplifies to <1+5t, 3+t, 4+2t>. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding that multiple lines can pass through a single point, which is crucial for accurately solving vector equations in three-dimensional space.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector equations in three-dimensional space
  • Familiarity with parametric equations
  • Knowledge of vector addition and scalar multiplication
  • Basic concepts of linear algebra
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector equations in three-dimensional geometry
  • Learn about parametric equations and their applications
  • Explore the concept of lines and planes in linear algebra
  • Practice problems involving vector equations and direction vectors
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, mathematics educators, and anyone seeking to understand vector equations and their applications in three-dimensional space.

styxrihocc
Messages
10
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Find the vector equation of a line that passes through the point (1,3,4) and is parallel to a line that passes through point (5,1,2)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


<1,3,4> + t<5,1,2>
<1,3,4> + <5t,t,2t>
<1+5t,3+t,4+2t>

Is my answer correct? if not please point me to the right direction since I'm not quite sure how to solve this problem, thank you.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
styxrihocc said:

Homework Statement



Find the vector equation of a line that passes through the point (1,3,4) and is parallel to a line that passes through point (5,1,2)
Is this the problem exactly as given to you? If so, you can't answer it because there are an infinite number of lines which pass through the point (5, 1, 2).
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K