Vector Problem - is this even solvable?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a vector problem involving constants a and b that multiply vectors A and B. Participants explore the implications of the problem statement and the methods to approach it, particularly focusing on the use of simultaneous equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the potential use of cross and dot products, while others suggest separating components to form simultaneous equations. There is uncertainty about the sufficiency of information provided in the problem statement.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered hints and confirmations regarding the direction of the problem-solving approach. There is a mix of attempts to solve the equations by hand and considerations of using computational tools. The discussion reflects ongoing exploration without a definitive consensus on the method.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of specific values for a and b initially, raising questions about the completeness of the problem. There is also mention of algebraic ambiguity in the context of the solution process.

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Homework Statement


[PLAIN]http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/8599/physicsks.png


Homework Equations


I'm considering cross product and dot product rules, yet I don't know where to begin with this one.


The Attempt at a Solution


I have two pages of scratch paper that is littered with failed attempts to solve the problem.

-There are no values for a or b given.
-Is there even enough information to solve these problems?
 
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this is basically a set of 2X2 simultaneous equation, which you can do by seperating the two components of each vector
 
Hint: a and b are constants which multiply the vectors A and B, respectively. There is no implied dot or cross product in the problem statement as shown.
 
I think I'm on the right track... thanks guys. Can you confirm if this is heading in the correct direction?

a<81,-73>+b<-79,49>+<60,85>=<0,0>

So,

81a-79b+60=0
-73a+49b+85=0

?
 
yup :)
 
These numbers are ugly... mind sticking around until I work it out? :)
 
Still haven't figured it out :/
 
Last edited:
do you have to solve it by hand? or are you allowed to use calculators/computers?
 
Even if I solve it, I still think there's something going wrong... I'll use a computer. I just tried doing it with matrices, lol.
 
  • #10
you can always substitute your answers back into the question and see if the identity holds, faster and simpler than rechecking all your steps
 
  • #11
You're right - I have new values for a and b

a=5.520297
b=6.489422

Pretty sure I got it! Thank you for your help!
 
  • #12
glad to help :)
 
  • #13
It was correct - my online homework thing accepted it, lol. The algebra was just a little ambiguous.
 

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