Math Problem Statement
Use vectors to decide whether the triangle with vertices P( 1, -3, -2) , Q (2, 0, -4), and R( 6, -2, -5) is right-angled.
Solution
To determine if the triangle with vertices , , and is right-angled, we can use the concept of vectors and the dot product.
Steps:
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Find the vectors representing the sides of the triangle:
- Vector from to :
- Vector from to :
- Vector from to :
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Check if any pair of these vectors are perpendicular by calculating their dot products:
- The dot product of and :
- The dot product of and :
- The dot product of and :
Conclusion:
The dot product , which indicates that vectors and are perpendicular. Since two sides of the triangle are perpendicular, the triangle is right-angled.
Would you like further details or have any questions about this solution?
Here are some related questions to explore further:
- How can the magnitude of the vectors be calculated, and how is it relevant to the problem?
- What if the triangle was in a different plane? Would the method change?
- Can the same process be applied to check for obtuse angles in the triangle?
- How would the method differ if the vertices were given in 2D?
- Can you find the area of this triangle using vector methods?
Tip: The dot product of two vectors is a quick way to determine if they are perpendicular. If the result is zero, the vectors are orthogonal.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Vectors
Dot Product
Perpendicular Vectors
Right Triangle
Formulas
Dot product formula
Theorems
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Suitable Grade Level
High School
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