Is there a vector proof for (u x (v+w)) . r = (u . w)(v . r) - (u . v)(w . r)?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Bipolarity
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Proof Vector
Join the discussion
Registration is free. Start your own thread to ask a follow-up.
2 replies · 2K views
Bipolarity
Messages
773
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


Show that [itex](u \times (v+w))\cdot r = (u \cdot w)(v \cdot r) - (u \cdot v)(w \cdot r)[/itex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So far I have been able to simplify the LHS to:
[itex](r \times u)\cdot v + (r \times u) \cdot w[/itex] but don't know how to proceed from there.

In fact, I don't know if this problem is even solvable using only vector identities, i.e. without having to prove using components.

All help is appreciated!

BiP
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi Bipolarity! :smile:

It's a misprint :rolleyes: …

try [itex](u \times (v \times w))\cdot r = (u \cdot w)(v \cdot r) - (u \cdot v)(w \cdot r)[/itex] :wink:​