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

4509 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

dy/dx= 2x/2 - 1/4x, what is d2y/dx2?


Differentiate: sin(x) + 2x^2


The curve C has equation y = 3x^4 – 8x^3 – 3. Find dy/dx.


Find the set of values for x for which x^2 - 9x <= 36


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