Finding s for Parallel Vectors in R3

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To determine the value of s that makes the vectors a=(2,2,-1) and b=(2,-1,s) parallel, the ratios of their components must be equal. The user finds that the ratio of the i components is 1, while the ratio of the j components is -1/2, indicating inconsistency. The goal is to find a value for s that aligns these ratios. The question is clarified as needing to find s such that both vectors are parallel and originate from the same point. The discussion emphasizes the need for consistent ratios among all vector components to establish parallelism.
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Homework Statement



Let a=(2,2,-1) and let b=(2,-1,s)

The Attempt at a Solution



dividing the i components gives you 1 but then dividing the j components gives you -1/2. I know that the ratio has to be the same for i, j, k in order for the two vectors to be paralle. i need to find s so they are parrallel. am i not seeing something?
 
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hi 75 johnson! :smile:

what exactly is the question? :confused:
 
i need to find "s" so that a and b are parallel
 
but a and b are vectors which meet at the origin (0,0,0) :confused:
 
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