What are scalar multiples and projections in vector operations?

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Scalar multiples of a vector represent all vectors that can be formed by multiplying a given vector by a scalar, resulting in a line through the origin. In this discussion, the vector L is defined as c[2, 1, 2]T, where every vector in L is a scalar multiple of <2, 1, 2>. The projection of vector v onto L involves determining the angle between v and L, which is essential for calculating the reflection of v across L. To find the reflection, a vector w must be identified that lies in the same plane as v and L but is positioned on the opposite side of L, maintaining the same angle. The plane of vectors v and L can be established using the cross product of v and L.
lypaza
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[PLAIN]http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/5319/49966749.png

What is the scalar multiples of a vector actually?
I was thinking L = c[2 1 2]T
Then I looked for projection of v on L. But I got c in my answers which are not supposed to be...
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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lypaza said:
[PLAIN]http://img62.imageshack.us/img62/5319/49966749.png

What is the scalar multiples of a vector actually?
I was thinking L = c[2 1 2]T
Then I looked for projection of v on L. But I got c in my answers which are not supposed to be...
Every vector in L is some scalar multiple of <2, 1, 2>. The line goes through the origin - the zero multiple of this vector is 0<2, 1, 2> = <0, 0, 0>, a vector that starts and ends at the origin. The line goes through the point (-4, -2, -4), which you can get by taking the -2 multiple of the vector.

For the reflection of v in the line, you want to find another vector w that is in the same plane as v and L, but is on the opposite side of L, and makes the same angle with L.
 
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So I have to find angle theta between v and L, and then find vector w with negative theta?
I also have to find the plane of v and L by cross product of v and L ...
 
Last edited:
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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