More old material planes, normal and parallel vectors

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding a unit vector perpendicular to the plane defined by the equation z = -3x - y + 11 and a vector parallel to the same plane. The perpendicular vector is determined to be -3i - j - k, which is converted to a unit vector by dividing by sqrt(11). A parallel vector is derived by ensuring it has a dot product of zero with the perpendicular vector, resulting in -3i + 5j + 4k as a valid solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector mathematics
  • Knowledge of dot product calculations
  • Familiarity with unit vectors
  • Basic concepts of planes in three-dimensional space
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector normalization techniques to create unit vectors
  • Learn about the geometric interpretation of dot products
  • Explore the equations of planes in three-dimensional geometry
  • Investigate methods for finding parallel and perpendicular vectors in vector spaces
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on vector calculus and three-dimensional geometry, as well as anyone needing to solve problems involving planes and vectors.

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Homework Statement



Consider z = -3x - y + 11

Find a unit vector perpendicular to the plane, and find a vector parallel to the plane.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



1.)

0 = -3x - y + 11 - z
-11 = - 3x - y - z

Perpendicular vector is then:

-3i -j -k

And to make that a unit vector, divide it by sqrt(11)


2.)

Here's what I'm not sure of. Can I just pick anything that gives me a dot product of 0 with the above?

Such that:

- 3a - b - c = 0?

Choosing a = -3, b = 5, c = 4,

A parallel vector to the plane is -3i + 5j + 4k?

Or is that incorrect?
 
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It is all correct.
 
Thank you sir.
 

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