Parametric and symmetric equations

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the parametric and symmetric equations of the line of intersection of two planes defined by the equations x+y+z=1 and x+z=0. Participants explore the relationships between the normal vectors of the planes and the resulting line of intersection.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the parametric equations from the intersection point and the direction vector obtained from the cross product of the normal vectors. Questions arise regarding the formation of the parametric equation and the handling of the symmetric equations, particularly concerning division by zero.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, providing explanations and clarifications. Some express confusion about specific steps in the derivation process, while others offer insights into the relationships between the equations and the geometric interpretation of the intersection.

Contextual Notes

There are mentions of specific values and assumptions made during the problem-solving process, such as setting z to 0 and the implications of the resulting equations. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify misunderstandings and explore the mathematical concepts involved.

tony873004
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Find the parametric and symmetric equations of the line of intersection of the planes x+y+z=1 and x+z=0.

I got the normal vectors, <1,1,1> and <1,0,1> and their cross product <1,0,-1> or i-k.

I set z to 0 and got x=0, y=1, z=0.

How do I form parametric equation out of this?? I know it's x=t, y=1, z=-t because this problem is nearly identical to one from lecture. But how did he do that step?

This would make the symmetric equations x/1=y-1/0=z/-1. But I can't divide by 0, can I?
 
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You set z = 0.

\pi_1: x+y=1
\pi_2: x=0

P(0,1,0)

The equation of the line is given by: \overrightarrow{r}=\overrightarrow{r}_0+t\overrightarrow{v}

And we know that the cross product of the two normal vectors of the plane is parallel to the line of intersection.

\overrightarrow{r}=&lt;0,1,0&gt;+t&lt;1,0,-1&gt;

x=-z;y=y_0

Since we don't write 0 under the denominator.

If x=x_0, y=y_0 vertical plane and z=z_0 horizontal plane.
 
Last edited:
Thanks for the explanation.

I don't get this:
\pi_2: x=1
If x+z=0 and I set z=0, then x+0=0. x=0 and 0+y+0=1, so y=1, hence P(0,1,0)
 
tony873004 said:
Thanks for the explanation.

I don't get this:
\pi_2: x=1
If x+z=0 and I set z=0, then x+0=0. x=0 and 0+y+0=1, so y=1, hence P(0,1,0)
Oh my. Sorry, I'm blind! I fixed it though.
 
Thanks. You explanation makes sense now.
 

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