How To Find The Intersection Of Two Lines In Space If At All Possible.

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on determining the intersection of two lines in three-dimensional space, represented in the form (X=, Y=, Z=). The method involves using different parameters for each line, such as 's' for one line and 't' for the other, leading to three equations based on the equality of x, y, and z coordinates. To prove intersection, one must solve these equations for 's' and 't' and verify if they satisfy all three equations. It is concluded that in general, two lines in three-dimensional space do not intersect.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of parametric equations of lines in three-dimensional space
  • Knowledge of solving systems of equations
  • Familiarity with the concept of intersection in geometry
  • Basic algebra skills for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the method of using parametric equations for lines in 3D space
  • Learn about systems of equations and their solutions
  • Explore geometric interpretations of line intersections
  • Investigate the conditions under which lines in three-dimensional space intersect
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, particularly those tackling problems involving three-dimensional lines, as well as educators looking for effective methods to teach intersection concepts in spatial mathematics.

Baumer8993
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Homework Statement


I am given the equation of two lines that are in three space. They are in the form of (X=, Y=, Z= ). The questions wants me to prove whether or not the lines intersect.

Homework Equations


The equations of the lines. It gives me just the points in the equation, but it is assumed I can get the equation of the line easily.

The Attempt at a Solution


I guess I need to find a common point some how? I know the intersections may not be at the same time.
 
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Baumer8993 said:

Homework Statement


I am given the equation of two lines that are in three space. They are in the form of (X=, Y=, Z= ). The questions wants me to prove whether or not the lines intersect.


Homework Equations


The equations of the lines. It gives me just the points in the equation, but it is assumed I can get the equation of the line easily.


The Attempt at a Solution


I guess I need to find a common point some how? I know the intersections may not be at the same time.
Use a different parameter for each line. Instead of using t as the parameter for both lines, use, say, s for one line, and t for the other. At any point of intersection both x values have to be equal, both y values, and both z values.
 
Note that this will give you three equations (for x, y, and z) in the two unknowns s and t. You can use any two equations to solve for s and t and then you will have to check to see if they satisfy the third. That is why the "general" situation is that two lines in three space do NOT intersect.
 

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