Math Problem Statement
Write a unit vector perpendicular to both
Solution
To find a unit vector that is perpendicular to two given vectors, let's denote these vectors as and . A vector perpendicular to both and can be obtained using the cross product, .
Here are the steps to find the unit vector perpendicular to both vectors:
-
Find the cross product :
If and , then -
Calculate the magnitude of :
Let . The magnitude is: -
Normalize the cross product to make it a unit vector: This is the unit vector perpendicular to both and .
Please provide the components of the two vectors if you need a specific solution.
Would you like to proceed with this, or do you have any other questions?
Here are some related questions for further exploration:
- What properties does the cross product vector have with respect to the original vectors?
- How would you find a vector perpendicular to only one given vector?
- What if the vectors and are parallel? What would the cross product be?
- Can the magnitude of a cross product ever be negative?
- How does the cross product differ in 2D and 3D spaces?
Tip: Remember that the direction of the cross product follows the right-hand rule, which can help determine its orientation in space.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Vector Algebra
Cross Product
Unit Vector
Formulas
Cross Product: A × B = ⟨a2*b3 - a3*b2, a3*b1 - a1*b3, a1*b2 - a2*b1⟩
Magnitude of Cross Product: |A × B| = √(c1^2 + c2^2 + c3^2)
Unit Vector: Ć = C / |C| where C = A × B
Theorems
Right-Hand Rule for Cross Product
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 11-12
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