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

4499 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate with respect to x: y=(6x^2-1)/2sqrt(x)


What is a logarithm?


How to differentiate y = xcos(x)


A particle of mass 5kg is held at rests on a slope inclined at 30 degrees to the horizontal. The coefficient of friction for the slope is 0.7, determine whether the particle will move when released.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning