The height of a triangle, given 2 vectors and the area

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the height of triangle ABC formed by vectors a = (2, 10, 25) and b = (5, 4, -2) given the area of the triangle as (81√5) / 2. To find the height AM, which is perpendicular to side BC, the magnitude of the difference between the two vectors must first be determined. The formula for the area of a triangle, Area = 0.5 * h * b, is essential for solving this problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Vector mathematics, specifically vector subtraction
  • Understanding of triangle area calculations
  • Knowledge of geometric properties of triangles
  • Familiarity with the concept of perpendicular lines in geometry
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the magnitude of the vector difference a - b
  • Apply the area formula to solve for height AM
  • Explore vector projections to find point M on line BC
  • Review properties of triangles in three-dimensional space
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, particularly those tackling vector-related problems, and educators looking for examples of triangle area calculations using vectors.

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Homework Statement


Triangle ABC formed by two vectors a = ( 2, 10, 25 ) and b = ( 5, 4, -2 ) attached at a point A.
The area of the triangle is (81 root 5) / 2
And I need to find the length of the height AM (AM perpendicular to BC and the point M belongs to the line BC).
Don't know where to start!


Homework Equations


Area = 0.5 *h *b
 
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Hint: find the magnitude of the difference of the two given vectors first.
 

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