- #1
Anden
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Homework Statement
I've recently encountered the cross-product while studying mathematics. I'm studying on my own so it has been quite difficult to get a proper answer, which is why I'm posting my question here.
What I've difficulties understanding is why the vector product of two vectors in a plane yields a vector perpendicular to the two.
I've also difficulties with why i x j = (-j x i) = k
The Attempt at a Solution
I have no idea why this is, the scalar product is quite easy to understand in comparison. I'm using "University Physics" for my studies, which says that I must combine the magnitude equation (C = ABsin(phi)), A x B = -B x A and the right hand rule.
Now from what I can gather from the magnitude equation, the magnitude of C is equal to the area of the parallellogram formed by A and B, why is this so?
A and B are vectors in a plane, and C is the resultant vector from the vector product.
I need someone to give me a hint on this one, to get me going