Proving perpendicular vectors using Dot Product

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that two vectors are perpendicular using the dot product method. It establishes that the dot product of vectors OA and LA equals zero, indicating perpendicularity. The equation used is the dot product formula, where OA is expressed as the sum of vectors OM and MA, and LA as the sum of vectors LO and OA. The participants suggest simplifying the notation for clarity and provide a pathway to demonstrate that A = (1/2)(S-R) and V = (1/2)(S+R) to ultimately show that A dot B equals zero.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector notation and operations
  • Familiarity with the dot product formula
  • Knowledge of vector decomposition
  • Basic trigonometry related to angles between vectors
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  • Learn about vector decomposition techniques
  • Explore geometric interpretations of the dot product
  • Investigate applications of perpendicular vectors in physics and engineering
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Homework Statement



2uiy8f6.jpg


Homework Equations



dot product a.b = lal.lblcostheta
vectors are perpendicular when a.b = 0

The Attempt at a Solution



OA . LA = 0
OA = OM + MA
LA = LO + OA

OA . LA = (OM+MA) . (LO + OA)
= OM.LO + OM.OA + MA.LO + MA.OAi get stuck here
 
Last edited:
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Look at this image and try this, the notation is a little easier.

circlevectors.jpg


See if you can show A = (1/2)(S-R) and V = (1/2)(S+R)

Once you do that see if you can show A dot B = 0.
 

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