Math Problem Statement

Find a unit vector in the same direction as \( \mathbf{a} = (6, 9, 4) \).

Solution

To find a unit vector in the same direction as vector a=(6,9,4)\mathbf{a} = (6, 9, 4), we follow these steps:

  1. Calculate the Magnitude of a\mathbf{a}: The magnitude a|\mathbf{a}| of vector a\mathbf{a} is given by: a=62+92+42=36+81+16=133|\mathbf{a}| = \sqrt{6^2 + 9^2 + 4^2} = \sqrt{36 + 81 + 16} = \sqrt{133} So, a=133|\mathbf{a}| = \sqrt{133}.

  2. Divide Each Component by the Magnitude: A unit vector in the same direction as a\mathbf{a} is: u=aa=(6133,9133,4133)\mathbf{u} = \frac{\mathbf{a}}{|\mathbf{a}|} = \left( \frac{6}{\sqrt{133}}, \frac{9}{\sqrt{133}}, \frac{4}{\sqrt{133}} \right)

Thus, the unit vector in the same direction as a\mathbf{a} is approximately: (6133,9133,4133)\left( \frac{6}{\sqrt{133}}, \frac{9}{\sqrt{133}}, \frac{4}{\sqrt{133}} \right)

Let me know if you would like a more detailed explanation, have any questions, or need further clarification!

Related Questions

  1. What is the significance of a unit vector?
  2. How do we calculate the magnitude of a 3-dimensional vector?
  3. Can you find a unit vector in the opposite direction of a\mathbf{a}?
  4. What does it mean geometrically for two vectors to be in the same direction?
  5. How can we verify that the vector we found is indeed a unit vector?

Tip: To simplify computations, you can leave square roots in the denominator for exact answers or rationalize if required for specific applications.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Vector
Unit Vector
Magnitude of a Vector

Formulas

Magnitude of a vector |a| = √(x^2 + y^2 + z^2)
Unit vector u = a / |a|

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12