Solving Vector Calculus Problems in r1(t) and r2(t)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving vector calculus problems involving the curves r1(t)=(t, 1-t, 16+t^2) and r2(t)=(8-s, s-7, s^2). The primary challenge is determining the angle of intersection between these curves after identifying their point of intersection at (3, -2, 25). To find the angle, participants emphasize the necessity of calculating the unit tangent vectors n and m at the intersection point and applying the formula |n||m| cos(a) = n·m.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus concepts, specifically curves and their intersections.
  • Familiarity with the calculation of unit tangent vectors.
  • Knowledge of the dot product and its geometric interpretation.
  • Proficiency in substituting parameters in parametric equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the unit tangent vectors for r1(t) and r2(t) at the intersection point.
  • Apply the formula |n||m| cos(a) = n·m to find the angle of intersection.
  • Explore the implications of the angle of intersection in physical applications.
  • Review additional examples of vector calculus problems involving parametric curves.
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Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are dealing with vector calculus, particularly those focused on curve analysis and intersection problems.

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Vector Calculus

Greetings everyone,

I have a problem: "Consider the curves r1(t)=(t, 1-t, 16+t^2) and
r2(t)=(8-s,s-7, s^2)
a) At what point do they meet?
b) Find their angle of intersection

The first part is easy, but I'm encountering some problems with b). To find the angle we need to apply the formula |n||m| cos(a)=n.m
The point is that we don't have the values of n and m. I tried to subsitute values for t and s (we also know the point of intersection) but still couldn't get it.
Someone can help?
Thanks
 
Last edited:
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Apply that formula |n||m| cos(a)=n.m where n and m are the unit tangent vectors of r1 & r2 at the point of intersection.
 
If we get the Unit Tangent Vectors then they are in terms of t. What do we substitute for t to get the value? The point we have is (3,-2,25) ->(x,y,z).
 

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