Finding the Coplanar Value of n for Given Vectors

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In summary, the value of n that will make the vectors 2i + 3j - 2k, 5i + nj + k, and -i + 2j + 3k coplanar is 18. The vectors are coplanar if A.(BxC) = 0, and after calculating BxC and plugging it into the equation, n is found to be equal to 18.
  • #1
jarman007
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Homework Statement



The value of n so that vectors 2i + 3j - 2k , 5i + nj + k and -i + 2 j + 3k may be coplanar?

a)18 b)28 c)9 d)36


2. The attempt at a solution

I was not able to think of any step

so please help
 
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  • #2
Hi jarman007, welcome to PF.
The vectors A, B and C are coplanar if A.(BXC) = 0
 
  • #3
thanks and please check my solution

BxC = 10k -15j + nk + 3ni + j +2i = (3n+2)i -14j + (10+n)k


A.(BxC)=6n+4-42-20-2n=0

therefore n = 58/4
 
  • #4
BxC = 10k -15j + nk + 3ni + j +2i = (3n+2)i -14j + (10+n)k
This calculation is wrong.
Check i and j coefficients. My answer is 18.
 
  • #5
thanks

got the answer
 

FAQ: Finding the Coplanar Value of n for Given Vectors

What does it mean for vectors to be coplanar?

When vectors are coplanar, it means that they all lie in the same plane. This means that they can be represented by a two-dimensional figure, such as a triangle or a parallelogram, and their tails can be connected by a single line without any of the vectors crossing over each other.

How do you determine if vectors are coplanar?

To determine if vectors are coplanar, you can use the vector cross product. If the cross product of two of the vectors is equal to the third vector, then they are coplanar. Alternatively, you can also graph the vectors and see if they all lie in the same plane.

Can three non-coplanar vectors be combined to form a coplanar vector?

No, three non-coplanar vectors cannot be combined to form a coplanar vector. This is because when vectors are non-coplanar, they are in different planes and cannot be combined to form a single vector in a different plane.

What is the significance of coplanar vectors in physics?

Coplanar vectors are important in physics because they allow us to simplify complex problems by reducing them to two dimensions. This makes it easier to analyze and solve problems involving multiple forces acting on an object in a two-dimensional plane.

Can vectors in three-dimensional space be coplanar?

Yes, vectors in three-dimensional space can be coplanar. In this case, they would lie in the same plane in three-dimensional space, similar to how coplanar vectors lie in the same plane in two-dimensional space. However, it is important to note that the definition of coplanar vectors in three-dimensional space is slightly different from the definition in two-dimensional space.

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