Two lines have equations r_1=(1,-1,2)+a(-1,3,4) and r_2=(c,-4,0)+b(0,3,2). If the lines intersect find c:

If the lines intersect the position vectors r_1 and r_2 must be equal at the point of intersection, so: (1,-1,2)+a(-1,3,4)=(c,-4,0)+b(0,3,2) which gives three equations for the three components: 1-a=c, -1+3a=-4+3b, 2+4a=2b. From the last two obtain b=5 and a=2 then substitute in the first to find c=-1.

AZ
Answered by Aleksandar Z. Maths tutor

4305 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

The equation of a line is y=e(^2x)-9 and the line has points at (0,a) and (b,0). Find the values of a and b.


Use the geometric series formula to find the 9th term in this progression : 12 18 27...


How do I sketch a graph of a polynomial function?


What is differentiation?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning