Find Vector b Given a: |a|=3, Perpendicular to a

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In summary, a vector is a mathematical entity that represents both magnitude and direction and is typically represented by an arrow. To find a perpendicular vector with a magnitude of 3, you can use the formula b = a x c, where c is a unit vector perpendicular to a. A vector can be perpendicular to another vector with any magnitude, but not to itself. Finding a vector perpendicular to another vector is significant in various applications, including physics and geometry. It also helps in understanding the relationship between two vectors in a given space.
  • #1
vorcil
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1. Find a.b given the following information
|a|=3

two vectors a.b are perpendicular to each other

b
|
|
|
|__________a


3. |a| = 3
a = squareroot of 3,

if B is a vector perpendicular to a,
dunno what to do from here,

quick response please
 
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  • #2
What are you asking for?
 
  • #3
the a.b,

the dot product
 
  • #4
One definition for the dot product is
a [itex]\cdot[/itex] b = |a||b| cos([itex]\theta[/itex])
where [itex]\theta[/itex] is the angle between the vectors.
 

1. What is a vector and how is it represented?

A vector is a mathematical entity that represents both magnitude and direction. It is typically represented by an arrow pointing in the direction of the vector with its length representing the magnitude.

2. How do you find the vector b if vector a has a magnitude of 3 and is perpendicular to it?

To find vector b, you can use the formula b = a x c, where c is a unit vector perpendicular to a. In this case, c would be the vector (0,0,1). This will give you a vector b that is perpendicular to a and has a magnitude of 3.

3. Can a vector be perpendicular to another vector with any magnitude?

Yes, a vector can be perpendicular to another vector with any magnitude. Perpendicularity only depends on the direction of the vectors, not their magnitudes.

4. Can a vector be perpendicular to itself?

No, a vector cannot be perpendicular to itself. A vector is always perpendicular to another vector, not to itself.

5. What is the significance of finding a vector perpendicular to another vector?

Finding a vector perpendicular to another vector is important in many applications, such as calculating forces in physics or finding the shortest distance between two lines in geometry. It also helps in understanding the relationship between two vectors in a given space.

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