Left-Handed Coordinate System: Unit Vectors i,j,k

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the classification of the Cartesian coordinate system as either left-handed or right-handed. Participants explore the implications of these definitions and the contexts in which different conventions may apply.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asserts that the Cartesian coordinate system is a left-handed system, questioning the conventional understanding.
  • Another participant counters that the Cartesian coordinate system is a right-handed system, suggesting that this is a common but not universal convention.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the original claim, implying that it may be a trick or misunderstanding.
  • There is mention of specific fields, such as geology and GPS, where different coordinate conventions may be used, indicating that context can influence the interpretation of coordinate systems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; there are competing views regarding whether the Cartesian coordinate system is left-handed or right-handed, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on conventions and the potential for confusion based on different applications or fields of study.

qwerty11
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A friend asked me this question today. It kinda threw me for a loop. The cartesian coordinates system is a left handed coordinate system right, so therefroe they are defined by a left handed coordinate syste correct?
 
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The Cartesian coordinate system is a right-handed system.
 


Your friend is playing with your mind!
 


Does your "friend" live in that square of glass in your bathroom and have an uncanny knack for mimickry?
 


Mark44 said:
The Cartesian coordinate system is a right-handed system.
Not necessarily. That is an extremely common, but not universal, convention.

HallsofIvy said:
Your friend is playing with your mind!
Or he/she is a geologist, or a radar technician, or a GPS specialist, or someone else who (danged annoyingly!) works with north-east-up coordinates.
 
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