What are the challenges of finding a plane in 4-space using two given lines?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the mathematical challenge of defining a plane in 4-space using two given lines in vector form. The primary issue is that, unlike in 3D, where a unique normal vector can be found, in 4-space there are infinitely many vectors that can be perpendicular to both lines. The participant identifies that they have one point on the plane from the line contained within it but struggles to find an additional vector to fully define the plane. The discussion emphasizes the dimensionality of the space of perpendicular vectors, which is two-dimensional in this case.

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  • Understanding of vector mathematics in higher dimensions
  • Familiarity with the concept of normal vectors and their role in defining planes
  • Knowledge of dot products and their geometric interpretations
  • Basic grasp of linear algebra concepts related to vector spaces
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  • Study the properties of vector spaces in 4-dimensional geometry
  • Learn how to compute normal vectors in higher dimensions
  • Explore the concept of spans and bases in vector spaces
  • Investigate applications of planes in multidimensional spaces
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Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those studying linear algebra and geometry, as well as professionals working in fields that require advanced spatial reasoning and vector analysis.

ctrlaltdel121
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Homework Statement



I am given two lines in vector form in 4-space. I need to write an equation for the plane that is parallel to one line, and contains the other line.

Homework Equations


well i know that in 3d I would find a normal vector for the plane that would be perpendicular to both lines, and that would let me define the plane. However i am stumped because in 4-space there are an infinite amount of vectors that are perpendicular to both lines.

The Attempt at a Solution


I took the dot product of the vectors and got an infinite number of possible normals. I know one point on the plane from the line that is contained in the plane, all i need is another vector in the plane to define it but I cannot figure it out.

I didn't want to give the numbers here because i can find it out on my own once I am given some direction.
 
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ctrlaltdel121 said:
However i am stumped because in 4-space there are an infinite amount of vectors that are perpendicular to both lines.

The same is true in three dimensions: all the vectors (0, 0, z) for z not equal to 0 are perpendicular to the (x, y) plane.
In this case, the space of vectors which is perpendicular to both lines is just two-dimensional, instead of one. For example, for the (x, y) plane the perpendicular vectors would be (0, 0, z, u) for z.u not equal to 0.
 

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