Vector equation of a plane in normal form

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around finding the vector equation of a plane in normal form, given a normal vector n and a point through which the plane passes. The normal vector has a magnitude of 8 units and is inclined at specific angles to the axes, leading to the calculation of direction cosines. The derived normal vector is confirmed as 4√2i + 4j + 4k, and the point on the plane is identified as √2i - j + k. There is confusion regarding the equation of the plane, as the textbook states it should be 2i instead of √2i, suggesting a potential error in the textbook. The participants agree that the inclination at 45° likely introduces the √2 term, reinforcing the belief that the textbook may contain a mistake.
Krushnaraj Pandya
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Homework Statement


A vector n of magnitude 8 units is inclined to x,y and z axis at 45, 60 and 60 degrees resoectively.If the plane passes through (root2, -1, 1) and is normal to n then find its equation.

Homework Equations


(r-a).n=0 where r is position vector of a point on plane, a is a point on the plane and n is a normal vector...(i)
sum of direction cosine^2=1

The Attempt at a Solution


Suppose the normal is ai + bj + ck, its magnitude= sqrt(a^2+b^2+c^2)=8 and direction cosines a/8 , b/8 and c/8- now a/8 = 1/sqrt2 and so on, equating the direction cosines. So the equation of normal is 4√2i + 4j + 4k, also the plane passes through a-(√2,-1,1) so a is √2i-j+k. Putting a and the normal in (i) gives r.(√2i+j+k)=2 but my textbook says its 2i instead of √2i. I have the feeling I'm making a small mistake but can't find it even though I checked- Is there a mistake in my book?
 
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Your solution seems to be correct. I can't really seem to find any errors, I mean the fact that it's inclined at 45° has to bring in a √2 term. There might be a mistake in the book.
 
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TachyonLord said:
Your solution seems to be correct. I can't really seem to find any errors, I mean the fact that it's inclined at 45° has to bring in a √2 term. There might be a mistake in the book.
Alright, thank you very much :D
 
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