Use vectors to find coordinate of a point

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the coordinates of point A in a right triangle defined by points B at (2,1) and C at (7,0), with A located at the right angle. The original poster attempts to use vector properties, specifically the dot product and magnitudes, to determine the coordinates of A.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster discusses using the dot product of vectors AB and AC to find A, noting that this approach becomes complicated. They also mention trying to apply the Pythagorean theorem with vector magnitudes, which also leads to complexity. Some participants question the clarity of the original poster's work and suggest that more detail is needed to identify any errors.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with the original poster indicating a potential resolution to their confusion after re-evaluating their work. However, there is no explicit consensus on the methods being used or the correctness of the approaches discussed.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the original poster's struggle with the problem due to fatigue, which may affect their reasoning. Additionally, the thread has been moved, prompting questions about the reasons for this action.

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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