Scalar Equation of Plane Determining the value of k

In summary, the problem involves finding the value of k that makes a line parallel to a given plane. The solution involves finding the dot product of the direction vector and the normal of the plane, which leads to the conclusion that the line is parallel for any value of a, with the exception of when the line is on the plane.
  • #1
Buzzlastyear
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Homework Statement



Determine the value of k so that the line with parametric equations x = 2 + 3t, y = -2 + 5t, z = k is parallel to the plane with equation 4x + 3y – 3z -12 = 0.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



let k=a + bt

x=2+3t
y=-2+5t
z=a+bt

direction vector= (3,5,b)

The normal to the equation 4x + 3y – 3z -12 = 0 is n=(4,3,-3)

Dot product of the direction vector and normal: (4,3,-3).(3,5,6)=0
12+15-3b=0
b=9
therefore z=a+9t

So:

x=2+3t
y=-2+5t
z=a+9t

not sure where to go from here

Thanks for any help!
 
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  • #2
The line you got is parallel to the plane for any value of a, maybe except the one where this line is on the plane (that seems to be when a=10/3). There is nothing wrong here.
 

What is the scalar equation of a plane?

The scalar equation of a plane is a mathematical representation of a plane in three-dimensional space. It is written as Ax + By + Cz = D, where A, B, and C are the coefficients of the x, y, and z variables, respectively, and D is a constant term.

How do you determine the value of k in a scalar equation of a plane?

The value of k in a scalar equation of a plane can be determined by solving for it using the given values of A, B, C, and D. The value of k represents the distance of the plane from the origin in the direction perpendicular to the plane.

What is the significance of the value of k in a scalar equation of a plane?

The value of k in a scalar equation of a plane is significant because it determines the position of the plane in three-dimensional space. A positive value of k means that the plane is located on the positive side of the coordinate axes, while a negative value of k means that the plane is located on the negative side of the coordinate axes.

How does changing the value of k affect the position of the plane?

Changing the value of k in a scalar equation of a plane will affect the position of the plane in three-dimensional space. A larger value of k will move the plane farther away from the origin, while a smaller value of k will move the plane closer to the origin. If k is equal to zero, the plane will pass through the origin.

Can the value of k be negative in a scalar equation of a plane?

Yes, the value of k in a scalar equation of a plane can be negative. This will result in the plane being located on the negative side of the coordinate axes, perpendicular to the positive direction of the axis that corresponds to the negative variable in the equation.

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