Finding where the plane intersects the x,y,z axes

In summary, there is a given plane defined by x + 2y + 3z = 12 and a point P(4,6,8). The task is to find where the plane intersects the x, y, and z axes. The solution involves using the intercept form x/a + y/b + z/c = 1, where (a,0,0), (0,b,0), and (0,0,c) are the intercepts on the x, y, and z axes respectively.
  • #1
VooDoo
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Homework Statement


The plane defined by x + 2y + 3z = 12 and the point P(4,6,8)
Find where the plane intersects the x,y and z axes

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I don't know where to start, I can vaugely remember that the variable t is brought into the equation, but I am really stuck. Your help is appreciated.
 
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  • #2
If a point (x,y,z) is on, e.g. the x-axis, what are y and z?
 
  • #3
Oh, yeah, and your point P is NOT on the plane. Do you want the plane parallel to the given one and passing through P? Reread the question.
 
  • #4
You can try to get the equation in the intercept form [tex]x/a+y/b+z/c=1[/tex] where (a,0,0) (0,b,0) and (0,0,c) are the intercepts on the x, y, and z axes. HINT: Divide by 12.
 

FAQ: Finding where the plane intersects the x,y,z axes

How can I determine where a plane intersects the x-axis?

The x-axis is the horizontal line on a 3D coordinate system. To find where a plane intersects the x-axis, you need to set the y and z coordinates to zero and solve the equation for the x-coordinate. This will give you a point on the x-axis where the plane intersects.

What is the equation for finding the intersection of a plane and the y-axis?

The y-axis is the vertical line on a 3D coordinate system. To find where a plane intersects the y-axis, you need to set the x and z coordinates to zero and solve the equation for the y-coordinate. This will give you a point on the y-axis where the plane intersects.

Can a plane intersect the z-axis at more than one point?

No, a plane can only intersect the z-axis at one point. This is because the z-axis is a single vertical line that runs through the origin of the coordinate system. Therefore, a plane can only intersect it at one specific point.

How can I use the intersection of a plane and the x,y,z axes to determine the orientation of the plane?

The intersection of a plane and the x,y,z axes can help determine the orientation of the plane by looking at the direction in which the plane intersects each axis. For example, if the plane intersects the x-axis at a positive value, but the y and z coordinates are both negative, this indicates that the plane is tilted upwards towards the positive x-direction.

Is there a specific method for finding where a plane intersects the x,y,z axes in a 3D coordinate system?

Yes, there are multiple methods for finding where a plane intersects the x,y,z axes. One method is to set two of the coordinates to zero and solve for the third coordinate, as mentioned in the first two questions. Another method is to use vector equations and solve for the point where the plane intersects each axis. Ultimately, the method used will depend on the given information and the desired outcome.

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