SUMMARY
The distance of closest approach from a point to a line in three-dimensional space is calculated using the formula \(d(P,L) = \dfrac{|\vec{Pr_0} \times \vec{A} |}{|\vec{A}|}\). In this discussion, the line is defined as \(r(t) = \langle 3, -1, 1 \rangle + \langle 2, -2, 1 \rangle t\) with \(A = (2, -2, 1)\). The distance from a point on the line to the origin is minimized by finding the minimum of the squared distance function \(x^2 + y^2 + z^2\), leading to the completion of the square method. The minimum distance occurs at \(t = -0.9\), yielding a minimum squared distance of \(2.9\).
PREREQUISITES
- Vector calculus fundamentals
- Understanding of parametric equations
- Knowledge of distance formulas in three-dimensional space
- Experience with optimization techniques, including derivatives and completing the square
NEXT STEPS
- Study vector calculus applications in physics
- Learn about parametric equations and their geometric interpretations
- Explore optimization techniques in multivariable calculus
- Investigate the geometric interpretation of cross products in three dimensions
USEFUL FOR
Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are working with three-dimensional geometry and optimization problems.