Use vectors to find coordinate of a point

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding the coordinates of point A in a right triangle defined by points B(2,1) and C(7,0). The initial attempts to solve the problem involved using the dot product and vector magnitudes, but these methods became complicated. The user eventually realized that their calculations simplified upon re-evaluating the problem, indicating the importance of following mathematical protocols. There is also a query regarding the reason for the thread's relocation, suggesting some confusion about forum moderation. Overall, the conversation highlights the challenges of solving geometric problems involving vectors and the value of careful problem-solving techniques.
mesa
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Homework Statement



So for this problem we are shown a right triangle with point B at (2,1), C at (7,0) and A(x,y). 'A' also happens to rest at the right angle of our triangle. What is the coordinate of 'A'

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried this one a couple ways. For example the dot product of AB and AC will be zero but that gets messy. I then tried using the magnitude of each vector and used Pythagoras but it gets messy that way too. I am sure it is something simple but it's been a long night...
 
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It probably is. Right triangles are tricky that way. However, you have shown no work, and it is difficult to see where you went so horribly wrong.
 
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SteamKing said:
It probably is. Right triangles are tricky that way. However, you have shown no work, and it is difficult to see where you went so horribly wrong.

Sorry, I thought my method was at issue... It is funny how sometimes when re-writing on a keyboard a problem can fix itself. My ^2 terms canceled so I am good to go, it pays to follow protocol :)
 
Not that I am bothered by it, I simply want to know why this thread was 'moved'?
 
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