Using vectors to prove that DE=1/2BA

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In summary, the conversation is about proving using vectors that the line DE, which connects the midpoints of two sides of a triangle, is equal to half of the base line BA. The question asks for a clarification on how to approach the problem using vector algebra, and the conversation also discusses the properties of an equilateral triangle and how DE is positioned in relation to the other sides of the triangle. Finally, the conversation suggests considering the relationships between different vectors as a possible approach to solving the problem.
  • #1
menal
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Homework Statement




I do not know how to draw a triangle here, but basically, there is an equilalteraly tangle slightly slanted to the left, and it hs a horizontal line cutting it through the middle.
the question says:
prove using vectors that DE=1/2 BA (DE is the two endpoints of the line cutting the triangle in half)
and BA is the bottom line of the triangle...the two end points are labeled B and A.

how would i do this question?
 
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  • #2
The vertices of your triangle are vectors in R2. Can you describe the two endpoints of your line DE in terms of the vertices using vector algebra?
 
  • #3
can u clarify what you mean?
 
  • #4
menal said:

Homework Statement




I do not know how to draw a triangle here, but basically, there is an equilalteraly tangle slightly slanted to the left
Which is it? Equilateral triangle or a triangle that is slanted to the left? It can't be both. In an equilateral triangle, all interior angles are 60 deg., and all three sides are equal in length.
menal said:
, and it hs a horizontal line cutting it through the middle.
This is very vague. I suspect that you mean that DE runs from the midpoint of AC to the midpoint of BC, with AC and BC being the nonhorizontal sides of the triangle, and AB being the base of the triangle.
menal said:
the question says:
prove using vectors that DE=1/2 BA (DE is the two endpoints of the line cutting the triangle in half)
and BA is the bottom line of the triangle...the two end points are labeled B and A.

how would i do this question?
Considering all quantities below as vectors, DC + CE = ? AC + CB = ? What's the relationship betwee AC and DC? What's the relationship between CE and CB?
 

1. How can vectors be used to prove that DE=1/2BA?

Vectors can be used to prove that DE=1/2BA by showing that the vector DE is equal to half of the vector BA. This can be done by using vector addition, subtraction, and scalar multiplication to manipulate the given vectors and eventually show that they are equal.

2. What is the significance of proving that DE=1/2BA using vectors?

Proving that DE=1/2BA using vectors can help to establish the relationship between the two vectors and show that they are proportional. This can be useful in various mathematical and scientific applications, such as in geometry and physics.

3. Can vectors be used to prove other mathematical equations or relationships?

Yes, vectors can be used to prove various mathematical equations and relationships. They are often used in geometry, physics, and other fields of science to represent and manipulate quantities that have both magnitude and direction.

4. Is the proof using vectors the only way to show that DE=1/2BA?

No, there may be other methods or approaches to proving that DE=1/2BA. However, using vectors is a common and efficient way to demonstrate this relationship, especially when dealing with quantities that have both magnitude and direction.

5. Are there any limitations to using vectors to prove equations or relationships?

There may be limitations to using vectors to prove equations or relationships, depending on the specific situation or problem. For example, not all quantities can be represented by vectors, so in such cases, other methods may be necessary. Additionally, vector operations may become more complex in higher dimensions, making the proof more difficult.

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