Rays, points and line segments

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem in metric geometry involving points A, B, and D. The original poster is tasked with proving that if point D is not on the ray from A to B, then the intersection of the ray from A to D and the ray from A to B contains only point A.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to demonstrate the intersection by considering an arbitrary point Z on the ray AD and arguing that it cannot be on the ray AB. Some participants question the validity of this reasoning, suggesting that the assumption made may be circular. Others seek clarification on the conditions of the problem, particularly regarding the positioning of point D relative to the line extended from A through B.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the implications of the definitions of rays and line segments. There is a recognition of potential assumptions in the original argument, and some participants are actively seeking to clarify the problem's requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants note confusion regarding the interpretation of the problem, particularly about the placement of point D and its relationship to the ray AB. There is also a correction regarding a typographical error in the original post, where point C was mistakenly referenced instead of point A.

Lee33
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Homework Statement



Let A, B and D be points. If ##D\notin \vec{AB}## in a metric geometry, prove that ##\vec{AD}\cap\vec{AB} = \{A\}.##2. Relevant definitions

Ray: If A and B are distinct points then the ray from A toward B is the set ##\vec{AB} = \overline{AB}
\cup \{ C \in P \ | \ A-B-C\},## where ##A-B-C## means B is between A and C.

Line segment: If A and B are distinct points in a metric geometry then the line segment from A to B is the set ##\overline{AB} = \{C\in P\ | \ A-C-B \ \text{or} \ C=A \ \text{or} \ C = B\}.##

The Attempt at a Solution



I am not sure how to go about proving this.

If I let ##Z## be a point where ##Z\in\vec{AD}## then ##Z\notin\vec{AB}## since ##Z## was arbitrary then there are no points in ##\vec{AD}## that lie in ##\vec{AB}##. So ##A## is the only point in ##\vec{AD}\cap\vec{AB}##.
 
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Hi Lee33! :smile:
Lee33 said:
If I let ##Z## be a point where ##Z\in\vec{AD}## then ##Z\notin\vec{AB}## since ##Z## was arbitrary then there are no points in ##\vec{AD}## that lie in ##\vec{AB}##. So ##A## is the only point in ##\vec{AD}\cap\vec{AB}##.

Haven't you just assumed exactly what you have to prove? :confused:

And don't say "Z is arbitrary", it's almost meaningless … say "if Z ≠ A then A – Z – D"

(However, I don't understand the question … why can't D be along the extended line AB, the other side of B ??)
 
Well the question is asking if the point D is not in the ray ##\vec{AB}## then I must prove that ##\vec{AB}\cap\vec{AD}## equals the set {A}.
 
Last edited:
but there's no C in the question :confused:
Lee33 said:
Let A, B and D be points. If ##D\notin \vec{AB}## in a metric geometry, prove that ##\vec{AD}\cap\vec{AB} = \{A\}.##
 
Opps. I meant A instead of C. I have edited the post. Sorry about that.
 

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