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Solve perpendicularity conditions and compare two area methods

The points AA, BB, CC and DD have position vectors i−2j+5k\mathbf i-2\mathbf j+5\mathbf k, i+3j\mathbf i+3\mathbf j, 10i+j+2k10\mathbf i+\mathbf j+2\mathbf k and −2i+4j+5k-2\mathbf i+4\mathbf j+5\mathbf k respectively, with respect to an origin OO. The point PP on ABAB is such that AP:PB=λ:1−λAP:PB=\lambda:1-\lambda and the point QQ on CDCD is such that CQ:QD=μ:1−μCQ:QD=\mu:1-\mu. Find OP→\overrightarrow{OP} and OQ→\overrightarrow{OQ} in terms of λ\lambda and μ\mu respectively.

Given that PQ→\overrightarrow{PQ} is perpendicular to both AB→\overrightarrow{AB} and CD→\overrightarrow{CD},

(i) show that PQ→=i+2j+2k\overrightarrow{PQ}=\mathbf i+2\mathbf j+2\mathbf k,

(ii) find the area of the triangle ABQABQ.

[2006/I/14(OR)]

CJC · Discussion · Question 11

Use the dot-product equations before substituting values of λ and μ into the point coordinates.

Read the worked solution