Are These Two Lines in Space Parallel?

In summary, the conversation discusses the conditions for two lines in ℝ^3 to be parallel. It is mentioned that the parametric vector equation of a line can be written as \vec{r}= \vec{r_0}+ \vec{D}t, where \vec{r_0} is the position vector and \vec{D} is the direction vector. It is stated that two lines are parallel if and only if one direction vector is a multiple of the other. The use of scalar and vector operations is also discussed in relation to parallel lines.
  • #1
Cpt Qwark
45
1

Homework Statement


How are the two lines
r = i + 2j + t(i - k), and r = k + s(-i + k)
parallel?
t,s∈ℝ

Homework Equations


parametric vector equation of a line
[tex]r-r_0=tv[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


Tried to find the conditions for lines to be parallel in ℝ^3.
 
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  • #2
Suppose you have the equation as a constant vector ##\vec a## plus some parameter mutiplied by a second constant vector ##\vec b##. What scalar and vector operations can you do to it that would produce parallel lines?
 
  • #3
A line in space can be written as [itex]\vec{r}= \vec{r_0}+ \vec{D}t[/itex] where [itex]\vec{r_0}[/itex] is the "position vector" of a single point on the line (the point where t= 0) and [itex]\vec{D}[/itex] is the "direction vector" pointing in the direction of the line. Two lines are parallel if and only if one direction vector is a multiple of the other.

Edit: Some text removed by a mentor.
 
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FAQ: Are These Two Lines in Space Parallel?

1. What are parallel lines in space?

Parallel lines in space are two or more lines that never intersect or cross each other. They are always equidistant from each other and have the same slope.

2. How are parallel lines in space different from parallel lines on a plane?

Parallel lines in space exist in a three-dimensional environment, while parallel lines on a plane exist in a two-dimensional environment. This means that parallel lines in space can be at any angle to each other, while parallel lines on a plane are always parallel to each other.

3. Can parallel lines in space ever intersect?

No, parallel lines in space can never intersect. This is because they are always equidistant from each other and have the same slope, so they will never cross paths.

4. How can parallel lines in space be identified?

Parallel lines in space can be identified by their equations. If two or more lines have the same slope and never intersect, they are parallel lines in space. Additionally, parallel lines in space can often be visually identified by their relative position to each other in a three-dimensional space.

5. What is the significance of parallel lines in space?

Parallel lines in space have many important applications in mathematics and science. They are used in geometry to define the concept of parallelism and in physics to study the movement of objects in space. They also have practical applications in fields such as architecture and engineering.

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