Vector Algebra: Proving Mutually Perpendicular Vectors

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving that three vectors a(v), b(v), and c(v) are mutually perpendicular given the conditions a(v) x b(v) = c(v) and b(v) x c(v) = a(v). It is established that the magnitude of vector b is 1 (b(mod) = 1) and that the magnitudes of vectors a and c are equal (a(mod) = c(mod)). The proof relies on demonstrating that the dot product of vectors a and b equals zero, confirming their perpendicularity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector operations, specifically cross products and dot products.
  • Familiarity with vector magnitudes and their properties.
  • Knowledge of vector identities and their applications.
  • Basic proficiency in linear algebra concepts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of cross products and their geometric interpretations.
  • Learn how to apply the dot product to determine vector orthogonality.
  • Explore vector identities and their proofs in linear algebra.
  • Review the implications of vector magnitudes in three-dimensional space.
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Students studying linear algebra, educators teaching vector mathematics, and anyone interested in the geometric properties of vectors in physics and engineering.

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Homework Statement



a(v), b(v) and c(v) are three vectors. if a(v) x b(v) = c(v) and b(v) x c(v)= a(v)
Show that b(mod)= 1 and a(mod)=c(mod) and the three vectors are mutually perpendicular.
(v) denotes vector and (mod) denotes magnitude.
2. Homework Equations [/]

NA.

The Attempt at a Solution



Got some of it.Need a bit more explanation.
 
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To show that they are perpendicular, you need to show that \vec{a} \cdot \vec{b} = 0, since you already know that vector c is perpendicular to both a and b. See if you can apply this to what you are given.

As for the other two, one follows from the other. Just use the formula for magnitude of vector product on both given vector equations and compare them.

This should help:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vector_identities
 
Thanks bro.How did you know if c was perpendicular to both?
 
because C is the cross product of A and B, hence it must be perpendicular to both vectors.
 
Thanks lord.I missed such a silly thing.
 

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