Vectors (iii) The velocity of a body moving westward at

8kms-1 is represented by -8i

A vector is a quantity with both magnitude and (iv) The velocity of a body moving southward at
direction. 6kms-1 is represented by -6j.
Examples include displacement, velocity, (v) A body moving at 10ms-1 in the direction
acceleration, force, momentum etc. N600E is represented as

Representation of vectors N

A vector is represented by a line segment or a

small letter 10sin300
0
30 0
0
O A 0
10cos30 E
a
The above vector can be represented as OA, a, 0
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ , etc. which can be used interchangeably. = 5 3I + 5j

Vectors in two dimensions Vectors in three dimensions

These represent magnitudes and directions
These are the representation of magnitude and in x, y and z planes and are represented by i,
directions of quantities in x –y plane. j and k
x – direction is represented by i or –i while
y – direction is represented by j or –j. k

j
-i i i

Where i and j represent direction in x – y

-j plane (or east-north directions on ground)
while k represent direction in z- plane
(vertical plane)
In the figure above the unit vectors in the x – y In summary the unit vectors in the x, y and z
plane are ( ) and are ( ) planes are

Illustration ( + ( + ( +

(i) The velocity of a body moving eastward at For example, the vector of a body that
5kms-1 is represented by 5i. moves 10m due East, 8m due north and 12m
(ii) The velocity of a body moving northwards at vertically is represented as
x 5kms-1 is represented by 15j.

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 10i + 8j + 12k or ( + =( + ( + ( +

Basic concepts
Direction of displacement vector
Position vector
Direction of displacement vector in 2- D
If a point P in a two dimensional geometry has geometry is given by
Cartesian coordinates (x, y), the position vector
y Q(x2, y2)
of P is given by OP = p = ( ) or
y2-y1
OP = p = xi + yj θ
If P has coordinates (x, y, z) in a three P(x1, y1) x2-x1
dimensional geometry, its position vector is
given by x
E
( *
OP = p = ( ) or xi + yj + zk

Displacement vector Example 2

If points P and Q have coordinates (x1, y1, z1) and Find the direction of the displacement PQ with
(x2, y2, z2) respectively, the displacement vector the horizontal, given the following points
PQ is denoted by either PQ, or ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ where
(i) P(2, 4) and Q (6, 8)
PQ = OQ –OP Solution

=( + ( +
(ii) P(1, 1) and Q(3, 5)
Solution
=( +
3
Example 1

Given the following pair of points, find their Modulus of a vector

respective displacement vectors, P
Modulus of a vector is the same as magnitude of
(i) P (3, 10) and Q (1, 1) a vector.
Solution
(i) For P = xi + yj
PQ = OQ –OP Modulus of P,= | | √
(ii) For P = xi + yj + zk
=( ) ( ) ( )
Modulus of P,= | | √
(ii) P(4, 0, 2) and Q(2, 4, 1) Example 3
Solution Find the modulus of the following vectors
PQ = OQ –OP (i) P = 3i + 4j
Solution
| | 3

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(ii) P = 3i + 4j + 5k Revision exercise 1
Solution
1. Find the magnitude of each of the following
| | 3 = 7.071
vectors
(a) 3i + 4j [5]
Unit vector
(b) 6i + 8j [10]
This is a vector whose magnitude or length is 3
equal to one. (c) ( + [5 ]
Example 4
Show that the vector is a unit
(d) ( + [13.75]
vector
2. Find the value of q in each of the following
| | √( ) ( ) √ √
(a) |3 | [4]
(b) | | [4]
(c) | | =2 [6]
The unit vector parallel to a given vector
3. Find the direction θ to the horizontal of each
The unit vector parallel to a vector P or a vector of the following vectors.
in direction of P is denoted by ̂ where (a) ( ) [ ]
̂ 3 ⌈ 3 3⌉
| | (b) ( )
4. Find a unit vector in the direction of each of
Example 5
the following vectors
Find the unit vectors parallel to each of the (a) p = 8i + 6j * +
following vectors.
(b) q = 5i + 8j * +
(i) p = 6i + 8j
Solution
(c) ( ) *( )+
̂ | |
(d) 3i – 2j + 5k * +
(e) i + 3j + 2k * +

3
(f) ( +

(ii) q= 3i + 4j + 5k ( )
Solution
5. Find a vector of magnitude in the
̂ | |

direction of the vector ( 3+.

[ ]
6. Find ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ in each case given that
(a) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 2i -4j + 5k and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 3i +6j – 2k
[ 3 ]
3
(b) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ( + and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ( +. [( +]

7. (a) Given that ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 5i – 7j – 2k and

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 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 2i + 3j – 2k, find ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ? [ 3 ] 3
3 3( + ( +
(b) Given that ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ (3+ and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ( +, 3
(ii) 3p + 2q
find ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ? [( +] Solution

3 3( + (3+
8. Given that ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = ai + 6j + 4k,
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 4i + bj + -2k, and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = -3i + ck, find the 3
possible values of the constants a, b, c. ( + ( +
[ ] 3

( +
Vector algebra
Addition and subtraction of vectors

When adding or subtracting two or more Coplanar vectors

vectors, corresponding elements are added or
subtracted. The vectors p, q and r are said to be coplanar
when there exist scalars say α and β such that
Example 6

1. Given that p = 2i + 3k and q = 3i + 6j + 5k find Example 8

(i) p + q = (2+3)i + (0+6)j + (3+5)k
3
= 5i + 6j + 8k (a) Given ( ), ( ) and ( ), find
(ii) p – q = (2 – 3)i + (0 – 6)j + (3 – 5)k scalars α and β such that
= –i – 6j – 2k Solution
3
2. Given that ( + and ( +, find ( ) ( ) ( )
3 3α + β = 4 ………………………...(i)
4α + 2β = 0 ………………………..(ii)
(i) p + q = ( + ( + ( +
3 Solving equation (i) and (ii) simultaneously,
we obtain and
(ii) p + q = ( + ( + ( +
3 (b) Given (3+, ( + and ( +,
Multiplication or division of vectors by a scalar
find scalars α, β and γ such that
When a vector is multiplied or divided by a
scalar the size of the vector changes but the Solution
direction remains unchanged 2α - β = 0 …………………………..(i)
3α + 2β = 7 ………………………..(ii)
Example 7
α + 2β = 5 ……………..…………..(iii)
Solving equation (i), (ii) and (iii)
Given the vectors ( + and (3+ simultaneously, we obtain and

find Equal vectors

(i) 3p Two or more vectors are said to be equal when

they have the same magnitude and direction.

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Example 9
( +, prove that P, Q and R are
Given that vectors p = αi + 2j + (4 – β)k and
q= (2 – β)i + 2j + 8k are equal find the values of α collinear.
and β. For collinear points PQ = kQR
PQ = OQ – OP
Solution 3
=( + ( + ( +
p and q are equal
3
αi + 2j + (4 – β)k = q= (2 – β)i + 2j + 8k PR = OR- OP

 4–β=8 =( + ( + ( + 3( +
β = -4 3
α = 2 – β = 2 - (-4) = 6 Substituting for PQ and QR
Hence α = 6 and β = -4  PQ = 2QR

Parallel vectors Hence QR is parallel to PQ, since Q is

common to both sides of the equation, then
Vectors p and q are parallel when one of them is P, Q and R are collinear
a scalar multiple of another i.e. p = kq where k is
a constant. c. Given points P(2, 1, 0), Q (5, 2, 4) and
R(14, 5, 16); show that the points are
To show that a given points are collinear collinear
Solution
If points P, Q and R are collinear, then
PQ = kQR
(i) PQ and PR or QR are parallel. PQ = OQ – OP
(ii) PQ = kQR where k is a constant and there is 3
a common point on LHS and RHS in this case =( + ( + ( +
Q.
PR = OR- OP
Example 10 3
=( + ( + ( + ( +
a. PQRS is a parallelogram with coordinates
P(2,4), Q(-1, 5) and R(4, 8). Find the Substituting for PQ and QR
coordinate of S.  PQ = 3QR
Solution
Hence QR is parallel to PQ, since Q is
common to both sides of the equation, then
P, Q and R are collinear

d. Given that ( 3+ ( + find

PS = QR
OS – OP = OR – OQ the coordinates of point R such that
OS = OR – OQ + OP PR:PQ = 1:2 and points P, Q and R re
collinear.
=( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
Solution
Hence S(7,7)
b. The position vectors of P, Q and R are
3
( +, ( +, and

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 1 2

R(-1,4) Q (x, y) P(3,2)

Here Q divides the line internally

PQ: QR = 2:1

( ) PQ =2QR

( ) ( ) OQ – OP =2(OR – OQ)

3OQ = 2OR + OP
( ) [( + ( 3+] ( +
3 3
Hence coordinates of R(2.5, -1.5, 3,5) = ( ) ( ) ( )

The ratio theorem (section formula)

=( )
Consider the division of a line PR by a point
Q as shown below: Hence Q( )

(ii) 1 3

P Q R Q (x, y) R(-1,4) P(3,2)

Fig: 1

In the Fig: 1 above, point Q divides line PR Here Q divides the line externally
internally; PQ:QR = 1:3 PQ: QR = 4: -1 (⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ as positive)

Q P R
Fig: 2 -PQ =4QR
In Fig: 2, point Q divides PR externally
-(OQ – OP) =4(OR – OQ)
PQ:QR = -1:4 or 1: -4 (depending on the
direction considered. 3OQ = 4OR-OP
3
= ( ) ( ) ( )
P R Q
Fig: 3 ⁄3
OQ =( +
In fig: 3, Point Q divides PR externally. ⁄3
PQ :QR = 4: -1 or QP : RQ = 4:1
Note PQ and QR are in opposite direction. Hence Q( ⁄3 ⁄3 )

Example 11 (iii) 3 1
(a) P(3, 2) and R(-1, 4) are two points on the Q (x, y)
R(-1,4) P(3,2)
line . A point Q divides PR in the ratio
(i) 2:1, (ii) 4: -1, (iii) 1: -4. Find the Here Q divides the line externally
coordinates of Q in each case
PQ: QR = 1:-4 (taking PQ positive)
Solution

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 -4PQ =PR 3PQ =-2QR

-4(OQ – OP) =(OR – OQ) 3(OQ – OP) =-2(OR – OQ)

3OQ =4OP – OR 3OQ – 3OP =-2OR + 2OQ
3 3 OQ =3OP + 3OR
= ( ) ( ) ( )

3⁄ = 3( + ( + ( +
OQ =( 3+
⁄3
Hence Q(-4, -9, 12)
Hence Q( 3⁄3 ⁄3 ) Note: in general, given that Q divides PR in ratio
α:β
(b) Two points P and Q are such that P(0, 1, 4)
and Q(2, 6, 0). A point Q divides a line PQ in P
ratio 2:3. Find the position vector of Q if it
divides PQ α
(i) Internally p R
(ii) Solution r β
2 3

P Q R O q Q

OR= OP + PR
Here Q divides the line internally
=
PQ: QR = 2:3
= ( )

= ( )
3PQ =2QR
( ) ( )
3(OQ – OP) =2(OR – OQ) =
3OQ – 3OP =2OR – 2OQ
5OQ=2OR + 3OP ( )
=

= ( + 3( + ( + =

Finding the constants of equality

⁄
OQ =( 3 , Suppose that r = λa + kb and r = ma+ nb
⁄  λa + kb = ma+ nb
Hence ( ⁄ 3 ⁄ )
Equating corresponding unit vectors
(ii) Externally
λ = m and k = n
1 2
Example 12
Q P Q
(a) Find the position vector of Q if it divides PR
Here Q divides the line externally in the ration (i) 1:5 and (ii) 1:-4, given that
PQ: QR = -2:3 OR =r, OP = p and OQ = q.

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 Solution
(i) For Q
(1 – k) = 2λ
(ii)
k = 1 - 2λ ………………………………….(2)
Equations (1) and (2)
(b) OPQ is a triangle with vector OP = p, OQ= q. 3λ = 1 – 2λ
Express in terms of p and q the position 5λ = 1
vector of OR, where R divides in ratio λ=
1:2.
From eqn. (1)
Solution P
k=3
1
p R (d) Given that OP = p and OQ = q, point R is on
r 2 OQ such that : = 4:1. Point S is on QP
such that QP: SA = 2:3 and RS and OP are
O Q both produced, they to meet at point T.
q

(c) The diagram below shows a quadrilateral

OSRQ, OS = q, OP = p and SX = kSP.
(i) Express vectors SP and OX in terms of p
and q Find
Solution (i) OR and OS in terms of p and q.
Solution
OR =
OS = OQ + QS
=
= ( )
SP = SO + OP = ( 3 )
= -q + p
(ii) OT in terms of p.
=p-q
Solution
OX = OS + kSP
Let OT = αOP and RT = βRS
= q + k(p – q)
From ∆OTR
= kp + q(1-k)
OT = OR + RT
(ii) OQ = 3p and QR = 2OS and OX =λOR
αOP + OR+ βRS
Find k and λ.
RS = RO + OS
Solution
OX = λOR = ( 3 )
= λ(OQ +QR) RS = ( )
= λ(3p + 2q) αOP = OR + RT
= 3λp + 2λq
αp = + βRS
Equating corresponding unit vectors
For p
= + ( )
k = 3λ ……………………….(1)

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 ( )
( ,
Comparing coefficients

For q: (ii) When F divides DA externally, ether 1 or 2

must be negative but not both. From the
β =4 ratio 1: -2.
 DF : FA = 1 : -2
For p,

-2DF = FA
-2(OF – OD) = OA – OF
(e) OABCD is a parallelogram, find the position OF = 2OD – OA
vectors of E and F such that E divides DA in
the ration 1:2 and F divides it externally in = ( + ( +
ratio 1:2. 3
3
3 OF =( +
Given that OA =( + and OB= ( +

Solution Exercise 2

1. Points P, Q, R have respective position

vectors ( + ( + ( +.

(i) OA = DB
(a) Vectors PQ and QR [( + ( +]
3
( + (b) Deduce that P, Q and R are collinear and
3 find the ration PQ:QR. [1:2]
( + ( + 2. The A, B and C have coordinates (1, -5, 6),
(3, -2, 10) and (7, 4,18 respectively. Show
that A, B, C are collinear.
3 3. Show that the points P(5, 4, -5), Q(3, 8, -1)
( + ( + ( +
and R(0, 14, 2) are collinear.
3
4. Given A(2, 13, -5), B(3, x, -3) and C(6, -7, y)
are collinear, find the values of x and y [8,3]
5. OABC is a parallelogram with ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = a and
( + ( ) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = c. Sis the point on AB such that
3 AS: SB = 3:1 and T is a point on BC such that
( + ( ) BT:TC =1:3
3 (a) Express each of the following in terms
of a and c.
( + [( + ( +]
(i) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ [ – ]
3 3
(ii) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
(iii) ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ * +-
( + ( +
3 (iv) ⃗⃗⃗⃗ [ ]
(b) State the value of the ratio ST:AC

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6. Triangle OAB has OA = a and OB = b. C is a (a) Find an expression for OP in terms of a
point on OA such that OC = . D is the and c. * +
midpoint of AB. When CD is produced it (b) Deduce that P is a point of trisection of
meets OB at E, such that DE = nCD and BE = both AC and OT
kb. Express DE in terms of 11. In a rectangle OABC, M is a midpoint of OA
(a) n, a and b * + and N is a midpoint of AB. OB meets MC at P
( ) and NC at Q. show that OP = PQ =QB.
(b) k, a and b * +
12. In the parallel gram OABC, P is a point on OA
(c) hence find the values of n and k. such that OP:PA = 1:2 and Q is a point on AB
* + such that AQ:QB = 1:3, OB meets PC at K and
7. Three non-collinear points A, B, and C have QC at M show that OK:KM:MB = 7:9:12
position vectors a, b, and c respectively with
respect to an origin O. The points M on AC is The scalar or dot products
such that AM:MC = 2:1 and point N on AB is The dot product of vectors p and q inclined
such that AN: NB = 2:1. at an angle θ to each other is defined as
(a) Find in terms of a, b, c the vectors | || | ,
(i) BM * +
Properties of scalar product.
(ii) CN * + (a) |||| (the angle
(b) The lines BM and CN intersect at L. between i and I is zero)
Given that BL = rBM and CL = tCN, where (b) |||| =0 (i and j are
r and t are scalars; express in terms of a, perpendicular
b, c, r and t;
Thus i.i = j.j = k.k = 1 and i.j = i.k = j.k =0
(i) BL * +
Hence the dot product of two vectors is a
(ii) CL * +
scalar quantity.
(c) Hence by using triangle BLC, or otherwise, Note that a dot product is used to show that
find r and t * + the two vectors are perpendicular.
(c) | | | |
8. In the rectangle OABC, OA = a and OC = c. R (d) ( ) (distribution
is a point on AB such that AR : RB = 1:2 and S law)
is a point on BC such that BS:SC = 3:1. AS (e) ( ) ( ) ( ) where k is
meets OR at P. constant.
(i) Find an expression of OP in terms a and
c * + Example 13
(ii) Show that OP:PR = 4:1.
(a) Given that p = i – 2kand q = 3i – 3j +k; find
(iii) Find the value of the ratio AP:PS [ ]
(i) p.q
9. Ina triangle OAB, OA = a and OB = b, M is the
Solution
midpoint of AB and N is a point on OB such
p.q = (i – 2k).(3i – 3j + k)
that ON:NB = 1:4. OM meets AN at P.
=3–2=1
(a) Find n expression ofOp in terms of a and
(ii) the angle between p and q corrected to
b. * ( )+ the nearest degree.
(b) Find the ratio of AP:PN [5:1] Solution
10. In a trapezium OABC, OA = a, OC = c and CB p.q =
= 3a. T is a point on BC such that BC: TC =1:2. √ ( ) √3 ( 3) cosθ
OT meets AC at P 1=

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 ( ) The vector (cross) product
the angle between p and q corrected Given two non – zero vectors p and q, their
to the nearest degree is 840. vector (cross) product is denoted by p x q or pΛq
(b) Show that the following vectors are is defined p x q = ⌈ ⌉| | where θ is the
perpendicular. angle between p and q and is the opposite unit
(i) p = 2i +6j + 4k and q = (-2i – 2j + 4k) vector to the given vectors. And
Solution
p.q = (2i +6j + 4k). (-2i – 2j + 4k) The cross product is synonymous to determinant
= -4 -12 + 14 = 0 of a 3 x 3 matrix.
(hence perpendicular) Properties of vector (cross) product
(ii) a = 3i – 4j + k and b = 2i + 3j + 6k
Solution (a) i x j = | || |
a.b = (3i – 4j + k).( 2i + 3j + 6k) = 1 x1x k = k
= 6 - 12 + 6 = 0 i x k = | || |
(hence perpendicular) = 1 x1 x j = j
(c) (i) Find the values of the scalar x if the jxk= | |
vectors p = 2xi + 7j – k and q = 3xi + xj + 3k = 1 x1xi = i
Solution
p.q = | | | | (b) i x i = | || |
If p and q are perpendicular then p.q =0 j x j = | || |
p.q = (2xi + 7j – k).( 3xi + xj + 3k) k x k = | || |
6x2 + 21x – 3 = 0 = 1 x1xi = i
(3x – 1)(2x + 3) = 0
Hence the cross product of two vectors is a
Either x = or x =- vector quantity.
(ii) If the angle between the vector p = xi + 2j
and q = 3i + j is 450, find two possible values Note we use the cross product to show that two
of x. vectors are parallel.
Solution (c) p x q = -(p x q)
(xi + 2j )(3i+j) ( )( 3 ) (d) for any three vectors p, q, and r
3x + 2 = ( )( ) p(q x r) = p x q + p x r
2 (e) The cross product is perpendicular to either
 x + 3x – 4 = 0
of the two vectors crossed.
By solving the equation = -4 or x = 1
Suppose we have vectors p = (p1i + p2j + p3k) and
(d) Find the angle between the vectors q = (q1i + q2j + q3k), the cross product of p and q
is
(3+ and (3+

Solution p x q =⌈ ⌉

(3+ ( 3 + |(3+| |( 3 +|
=| | | | | |
-4 + 9 = 3 . √( ) 3 cosθ
5=( 3) =(p2q3-p3q2)i - (p1q3-p3q1)j + (p1q2-p2q1)k

( )

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Example 14
and
(a) Given p = 3i – 2j+k and q = 4i +3j -2k, find
p x q and q x p. and ( + ( +
Solution 3
Hence the product is perpendicular
|3 | 3
3 (c) Find the vector perpendicular to p ( +
3 3
| | | | | |k
3 3
and q= ( +
= (-2 x -2 – 1 x3)i – (3x-2 – 1 x 4)j + (3x3 - -2x4)k

=(4 – 3)i – (-6 – 4)j + (9+8)k Solution

= i +10j + 17k Approach 1
Or using matrix approach 3
( + ( + ( + ( +
3
( + (3+

Hence the perpendicular vector is( +

3
( (3 )+
3 3
Note the ( + and ( + are parallel.
3
( ( )+ ( +
Approach 2
q x p = -(p x q)
Let the perpendicular vector be ( )
= -( i +10j + 17k)

= –i – 10j – 17k 3
 ( ) ( +

Or ( + ( +
3p + 4q + r = 0 ………………………….(ii)

(b) Show that the cross product of vectors

And ( ) ( +
(3+ and ( + is perpendicular to
3 -p + 2q - r = 0 ………………………….(ii)
the vectors.
Eqn. (i) – 2Eqn (ii)
(3+ ( +
5p + 5r = 0
3
( + p+q=0
3
Let p = λ, then r = -λ
( ( )+ ( +
Substituting for p and r in equation (i)
3 3
3λ + 4b – λ = 0
Now ( + (3+ 3 + 15 = 0
3 b=

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 ( ) ( , ( +
Area of triangle ABC =

=
Hence the perpendicular vector is( +
But | | | || |
Hence the area of the triangle = | |
(d) Given points P(1, 1, 2), Q(3, 7, 8) and
R(4, 10, 11) In general, the area of a triangle ABC
Show that PQ is parallel to QR. = | | | | | |
Solution
PQ = OQ – OP (ii) To show that given vertices for a triangle
= (3i + 7j + 8k) – (i + j + 2k)
= (2i + 6j + 6k)
QR = OR – OQ
= (4i + 10j + 11k) - (3i + 7j + 8k)
= (i + 3j + 3k)

PQ x QR =| |
3 3 If ABC is a triangle, then it must be a closed
=| | | | | |k polygon.
3 3 3 3
=(6x3 - 6x3)i – (2 x3 – 6x1)j + (2 x 3 – 1x6)k i.e. ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
= (18 – 18)i – (6 – 6)j + (6 – 6)k => (OB – OA) + (OC – OB) + (OA – OC) =0
0i – 0j – 0k = 0
(e) If vectors p = 2i – 3j + k and q = ai – 6j + bk (iii) To show that a given triangle is right angled
are parallel, find the values of a and b triangle.
Solution Suppose <ABC = 900

| 3 |

3 3
=| | | | | |
= (-3b + 6)i –(2b –a)j + (-12+3a)k
 -3b+ 6= 0; b = 2
 2b –a = 0; a = 2 x 2 = 4
 BA.BC = 0 (dot product of BA and BC)
Hence the value of a = 4 and b = 2
Example 15
Application of dot and cross product of (a) The vertices of a triangle PQR have position
vectors vectors p = i + 2j + k, q = i + 3k and r = -1 + 2j
–k. Determine the area of the triangle PQR.
(1) The triangle
Solution
(i) The area of a triangle

13digitalteachers.co.ug
 PQ = OQ – OP PQ = OQ – OP
3
=( + ( + ( + =( + ( + (3+
3 3 3
PR = OR – OP QR = OR – OQ

=( + ( + ( + =( + ( + ( +
3

( + ( + ( + PR = OR – OP
3
Area of PQR = | | =( + ( + ( +
= √ ( ) ( )
=2 3 sq. units. PQ+QR + RP =( 3 + ( + ( +
3
(b) Find the area of a triangle PQR with vertices
=( +
P(0, 1, 3), Q(1, 5, 7) and R(4, -2, 4)

Solution Hence PQR is a triangle

To show that PQR is a right angled triangle

PQ.QR =( 3 + ( + 3
3
Hence PQR is a right angled triangle

Area PQR = ( )
PQ = OQ – OP
√ ( 3) 3
=( + ( + ( +
3 √( ) ( ) 3
PR = OR – OP
Area PQR = ( 3) = 35.4sq. units
=( + ( + ( 3+
3 (2) The parallelogram
(i) The area of the parallelogram
( + ( 3+ ( +

Area of PQR = | |
= √ ( )
=29 sq. units.
Taking <DAB = θ
(c) Show that the points P(13, -2, 0), Q(7, 1, -3)
Area of parallelogram = base x height
and R (2, -1, 5) are vertices of a triangle and
= | || |
it is a right angled triangle. Find its area
=| |
(ii) Properties of parallelogram
- Two sides are parallel and equal, i.e.,
AB = DC and AD = BC
- The diagonals are not perpendicular
and not equal
- Opposite angles are equal i.e.

14digitalteachers.co.ug
 <DAB = <DCB and <ADC = <ABC Opposite angles are equal but not
- The sides are not perpendicular i.e., equal to 900. i.e.
<DAB = <DCB 900 and <DAB = <DCB 900 and
<ADC = <ABC 900 <ADC = <ABC 900
(iii) Properties of a rectangle
Example 16

(a) A quadrilateral ABCD has coordinates

A(1, 2), B(5,4), C(3, -1) and D(-1, -3). Show
whether ABCD is a rectangle or
parallelogram
- Two sides are parallel and equal, i.e., Solution
AB = DC and AD = BC
- Diagonals are equal and
perpendicular
- All angles are equal to 900. i.e.,
<DAB = <ABC =<BCA = <CDA = 900.
(iv) Properties of a square

For both a rectangle and parallelogram,

AB = DB and AD = BC
AB = OB – OA
=( ) ( ) ( )
DC = OC – OD
- All sides are parallel and equal, i.e.,
3
AB = DC = AD = BC =( ) ( ) ( )
3
- Diagonals are equal and  AB = DC
perpendicular
- All angles are equal to 900. i.e., AD = OD – OA
<DAB = <ABC =<BCA = <CDA = 900.
=( ) ( ) ( )
3
(v) Properties of a rhombus DC = OC – OD
3
=( ) ( ) ( )
 AD = DC

Hence ABCD is either a rectangle or

parallelogram.

For a rectangle <DAB = <ABC = 900

 AD.AB = 0
( ) ( )

Hence ABCD is not a rectangle.

For a parallelogram, <DAB = <BCD and

- All sides are parallel and equal, i.e., <ABC = <ADC
AB = DC = AD = BC
- Diagonals are equal and AD.AB = | || |
perpendicular

15digitalteachers.co.ug
  AC.BD = 0
AC = OC – OA
( ) 3
=( ) ( ) ( )
| || | BD = OD – OB
3
=( ) ( ) ( )
( ) ( )

AC.BD =( ) ( )

Hence ABCD is either a square of rhombus

( ) 3 For a square <DAB = <ABC = 900

 AB.AD = 0
Since <DAB =<BCD; ABCD is a parallelogram.
3
(b) ABCD is a quadrilateral with A(2, -2), B(5, -1), Now ( ) ( ) 3 3
3
C(6, 2) and D(3,1). Show whether the
Hence ABCD is not a square.
quadrilateral is a square or a rhombus.
For a rhombus <ADC =<BCD 900 and
<ABC= <ADC 900

AD.AB = | || |

6= 3 3

6=

For square or rhombus =53.130

AB = BC = CD = AD CB.CD = | || |

AB = OB – OA 3
( )( ) = 3 3
3 3
=( ) ( ) ( )
6=
| | 3
BC = OC – OB =53.130
=( ) ( ) ( )
3 Since <DAB =<BCD ; ABCD is a rhombus.
| | 3
CD = OD – OC (c) A parallelogram ABCD has vertices A(-2, 3),
3 3 B(1, -2), C(8, -5) and D(5, 0). Find the area of
=( ) ( ) ( )
the parallelogram
| | 3
AD = OD – OA Solution
3
=( ) ( ) ( )
3
| | 3
Since AD is parallel to BC and have the same
magnitude; ABCD is either a square or
rhombus.
For both a square and rhombus, the
diagonals are perpendicular

16digitalteachers.co.ug
 Area of ABCD =| | [-4i + 2i; 4i, 8j; PQ.RQ=0]
(ii) Using a scalar product or otherwise find
AB = OB – OA
and RQ [26.60]
3 (iii) Find the position vectors of S, the mid-
=( ) ( ) ( )
3 point of PR. [-4i, -3j
AD = OD – OA 7. The points A, B, C have position vectors

A = 2i + j –k, b =3i +4j -2k, c = 5i –j + 2k

=( ) ( ) ( )
3 3 respectively, relatively to fixed point O.
3 (a) Evaluate the scalar product (a – b),
AB x AD =( ) ( 3) ( +
(c – b). Hence calculate the size of angle
ABC. [17. 40.20]
| | (b) Given that ABCD is parallelogram
(i) Determine the position vector of D
The area of ABCD = 26 s. units.
[-4i, -2j +3k]
Exercise 3 (ii) Calculate the area of ABCD,[14.4]
(c) The point E lies on BA produced so that
1. Given that p = 4i + 5j, q = i - 8j and r = i+βj. ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 3⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ . Write down the position
(a) Find the value of constants α given that
vector of E. the line CE cuts the line AD
p and q are perpendicular. [10]
at X; find the position vector of X.
(b) Find the value of constant β given that p
[-2i + k;
and r are parallel * +
8. The point A and B have position vectors
2. Given that p = 6i – j, q = αi + 2j and r = 2i + i + 2j +2k and 4i +3k respectively, relative an
βj. origin O.
(a) Find the value of a constant given that (a) Find the length of OA and OB. [3, 5]
p and q are parallel [-12] (b) Find the scalar product of OA and OB.
(b) Find the value of constant β give that p Hence find angle OAB. [48.20]
and r are perpendicular. [12] (c) Find the area of the triangle AOB, giving
your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
3. Given that( ) and ( 3 + are
3 [5.59]
perpendicular vectors, find the value of α. (d) The point C divides AB in ratio α: 1-α
[18] (i) Find an expression for OC.
4. Find the possible values of the constant α, [(1+α)I + (2 + α)j + 2(1- α)k]
given the vectors αi + 8j+ (3α + 1)k and (ii) Show that OC2 = 14α2 + 2α +9
(α + 1)I + (α – 1)j – 2k are perpendicular. (iii) Find the position vectors of the two
[2 or -5] point on AB whose distance from O
is . [-2i + j +4k; ]
5. Given that the vectors ( ) and
(iv) Show that the perpendicular
distance of O from AB is
( + are perpendicular, find the possible approximately 2.99

values of t [5 or -1]
6. Three point P, Q, and R have position
vectors p = 7i + 10j; q = 3i + 12j and r –i + 4j
respectively.
(i) Write down vectors PQ and RQ and
show that they are perpendicular.

17digitalteachers.co.ug
Lines By making λ the subject from the parametric
equations,
Equation of a line

An equation of line can be expressed in any of

the three forms This is the Cartesian equation of the line
(i) Vectors Different values of λ define positions of R.
(ii) Parametric form
(iii) Cartesian form If λ < 0, the point R is on the left point A

If λ = 0, the point in question is A

Finding equations of a line given one point on
If λ > 0, the point R is on the right of point A
the line and the vector parallel to the line
(direction vector) Example 17

(a) Find the vector, parametric and Cartesian

equation of the line passing through the
point A(1,2,3) and is parallel to the vector
2i – j + k.

Solution

The position vector of A is a = i + 2j + 3k and

In the figure above A is the point on the line the parallel vector b = 2i – j +k.
with position vector OA = a and b is the Using r = a + λb
vector parallel to the line
 r = I + 2j +3k + λ(2i –j +k)
Taking R(x, y, z) as general point on the line
AR is parallel to b Or

 AR = λb where λ is a constant
r=( + ( + , this a vector equation
OR – OA = λb
3
OR = OA + λb
 r = a + λb
Substituting for r = ( )
This is the vector equation of the line

( )=( + ( +
Suppose that a= ( + and b =( +
3

Substituting for r, a and b into the equation

( ) ( + ( + 3 this parametric equation

From these equation

( + ( +
3

These are parametric equation of a line is the Cartesian

equation

18digitalteachers.co.ug
 Note a1 = 2b1
 b = 2b1i + b1j
Given the Cartesian equation of a line, the
b = b1(2i = + j)
point through which the line passes (1, 2,3)
3 Hence the required line will be parallel to
and the vector parallel to this line ( + can any vector of the form λ(2i +j). So taking
2i + j as one of such vector, the required
be deduced easily, for example the line
equation is r = 2i + 3j + λ(2i +j)
pases through (a) Defining a line given two points lying on the
3 line
( ) and is parallel to ( +
Finding equations of a line given two points
lying on the line
Hence from the general Cartesian equation
Suppose the line passes through point A and B
of the line, , the arallel
whose position vectors are a and b.
vector is the values of the denominator and
for the vector equation, it is the coefficient
of the constant.
For a general point R(x, y, z)
(b) Find the Cartesian equation of the line that
AR is parallel to AB
passes the point
AR = λAB for any value of λ.
(i) P(2, 0, -1) and is parallel to ( +
OR – OA = λ(OB – OA)
(ii) M(3, 2,1) and is parallel to 5i + 7k.
OR = OA + λ(OB – OA)
Solution
Using general Cartesian equation r = a + λ(b – a)

Example 18
(i)
(a) Find the equation of the line passing
through the points A(3, 0. -2) and B(4, -2, 1)
(ii)
Solution
;y=2
3 3
(c) Find the vector equation of the straight line AB = OB – OA = ( + ( + ( +
that passes through point (2, 3) and 3
perpendicular to the line r = 3i + 2j + λ(i – 2j).
Using r = a + λAB
Solution 3
Using r = a + λb, substituting for a = 2i + 3j r=( + ( +: the vector equation
3
and b = a1i + b1j, we have
Substituting for r
r = 2i + 3j + λ(a1i + b1j)
3
since the lines are perpendicular, this means ( ) ( + ( +
that their parallel vectors are also 3
perpendicular
x=3+λ
 (a1i + b1j)(i – 2j) =0
y = -2λ
a1 -2b1 = 0

19digitalteachers.co.ug
 z = -2 + 3λ parametric equation z = 5 + 2λ

Making λ the subject Making λ the subject

: Cartesian equation Cartesian equation

(b) Find the equation of the line passing To show that a given point lies on the line
through points A and B whose position
Suppose that a point (a, b, c) lies on
vectors are i +2j – 5k and 2i – 5j +8k
Solution . The when we substitute this
AB = OB – OA =( + ( + ( + point into the equation, we obtain a constant for
3 the values of a, b, c.
Using r = a + λAB
Example 19
(a) Show that a point with coordinates
r =( + ( +: the vector equation (4, -1, 12) lies on the line
3 r = 2i + 3j + 4k + λ(i – 2j + 4k)
Substituting for r
Solution
( ) =( + ( +
( ) (3+ ( +
3
Substituting (x, y, z) = (4, -1, 12)
Parametric equation
3 ( + (3+ ( +
Making λ the subject
Cartesian equation
( 3+ ( + ( + ( +
Note: in a situation where three points lying
on a line are given such as ABC, the vector Since the value of λ is constant, the point
equation of the line is given by lies on the line.
r = a + λ(BC) (b) Show that a point with position vector
(c) Find the equation of the line passing i – 9j + k lies on the line
through points A(1, 2, 5), B(2, 1, 0) and r = 3i + 3k – k + λ(i + 6j – k)
C(5, 3, 2). Solution
Solution 3
( ) (3+ ( +
3
BC = OC – OB= (3+ ( + ( +
Substituting (x, y, z) =(1, -9, 1)
3 3
r=( + ( +: vector equation ( + (3+ ( +

Substituting for r 3
( 3+ ( +=> ( + ( +
3
( )=( + ( +:
Since the value of λ is constant, the point
lies on the line.
x = 1 + 3λ

y = 2 +2λ Parametric equation

20digitalteachers.co.ug
Relationship between two lines λ=3
Checking with eqn. (ii) 3(-2) – 3 = -9 i.e.
There are three types of relationship between
there is consistency.
lines
Using , the point of intersection is
(i) Intersection
L1 ( + (3+ ( +
L1
θ Or point of intersection is (-4, 2, 5)
L2
L2
(b) Show that lines
(a)intersecting at θ (b)intersecting at 900 and
intersect and find the point of intersection.
If two lines r1 and r2 meet, then at the point of Solution
intersection, r1 = r2 i.e 2x – y = 2 ………………..(i)
(ii) Parallel lines Also
These are non-intersecting lines that are i.e. -3x + y = -6 ………..(ii)
equidistant from one another. Eqn. (i) + Eqn. (ii) –x = -4 or x = 4
L1 Substituting for x in equation (i)
2 x 4 – y = 2; y = 6
d d Finding the value of z

L2 => -x = z – 5
Substituting for x
(iii) Skew lines
-4 = z – 5; z = 1
These are non-intersecting lines that are not Checking for constancy using
equidistant from one another (not parallel)
L1  3 (consistent)

d1 d2 d1 d2 Given that r1 = a1 + λ1b1 and r2 = a2 + λ2b2

L2 intersect; then the shortest distance
between the lines is zero.

Or (a1 – a2),(b1 x b2)=0

Example 20
(c) Show that the following lines are
(a) Show that lines
perpendicular
( + ( 3 + and (i) and

( + ( + intersect and find the The first line is parallel to ( +

3
point of intersection.
3
Solution The 2nd line is parallel to ( +
At the point of intersection r1 = r2

( + (3+ ( + ( + 3
3 ( + ( +=6–2–4=0
-2 +μ = 8 - 4λ i.e. μ +4λ = 10 …………..(i)
8 + 3μ = -1 + λ i.e. 3μ – λ = -9 ……….(ii) the lines are perpendicular because
-1 - 2μ = 3 i.e. μ = -2
Substituting for μ in equation (i)

21digitalteachers.co.ug
 (ii) r1 = i –j + λ1(i + 2j – k) and | |
The shortest distance, ds = | |
r2 = 2i +j –k + λ2(-2i -4j +2k)
From the given line in question A(-4, -1, 1)
Solution
and b = (3+
st 3
The 1 line is parallel to b1 = ( +

AB = OB – OA = ( + ( + ( +
nd
The 2 line is parallel to b2 =( + ( + 3

Substituting for b1 into b2; b2 = -2b1 AB x b =( + (3+ ( +

3
Hence the two lines are parallel.
| | √[( ) ] =11 and
The shortest (perpendicular) distance from a
given point to the line. | | 3 3
| |
There are several methods of calculating this; ds = units
| |
here two methods are discussed in examples
below Approach 2

Example 21

(a) Find the perpendicular distance from point,

A(1, 1, 3) to the line .
Solution
Approach 1
P is a point at which the perpendicular line
meets the line

The vector equation of the line is

( + (3+
In the figure above 3
A is a point on the line
P is a point at which the perpendicular from
Let λ =λ1 at Q i.e. p ( + (3+
B meets the line 3
B is the vector parallel to the line
θ is the angle between AB and the line (or
( 3 +
the parallel vector)
3
Required is the distance ds, = | |
From the figure, | |= | |sinθ ……… (i) Since PB is perpendicular to the line, it is also
But by definition: | | =| || |sinθ perpendicular to b.
| |
 | |sinθ =
| |
…………………………..(ii)
BP. (3+ i.e. (p- B). (3+
Combining equations (i) and (ii) 3 3
| |
| |=
| | {( 3 + ( +} (3+
3 3 3

22digitalteachers.co.ug
-10 + 4λ1 – 6 +9λ1 – 6 + 9λ1 = 0 3
AP. ( += 0
λ1 = 1
3 3
3 {( + ( 3+}. ( +
BP = ( 3+ ( + 3
3 3 3 3
| | 3 units ( + ( +

(b) Find the perpendicular distance from the =0

point A(4, -3, 10) to the line L with vector
3 3 3
equation ( + ( + AP = ( +(3+
3 3
Solution | | 3 3 3 =3 3 units
Method 1 (c) The points A, B, C have position vectors
| |
The shortest distance ds = a = 3i – j +4k, b = j – 4k, c = 6i + 4j + 5k
| |
From the given line in question, B(1, 2, 3) respectively. Find the position vector of the
3 point R on BC such that AR is perpendicular
and b = ( + to BC. Hence find the perpendicular distance
of A from the line BC.
BA = OA –OB Solution
3
=( 3+ ( + ( +
3
3 3 3
BA x b =( + ( + ( +
BR = λBC
| | 3 = 3
OR – OB = λ(OC- OB)
| | 3 OR = OB + λ(OC –OB)
| |
ds = | |
3 3
r=( + [( + ( +]
Method 2

=( + (3+

R=( 3 +

Perpendicular distance = | |
 AR.BC = 0
3
( + ( + AR = OR – OA
3
3 3 3
Let λ=λ1 at P i.e. ( + ( + =( 3 + ( + ( 3 +
3
3
3
( +
Hence ( 3 +. (3+
3
Since AP is perpendicular to the line, it is
also perpendicular to b -18 + 36λ + 6 + 9λ -72 + 81λ = 0

126λ =84

23digitalteachers.co.ug
 λ=
( + ( +
3
substituting for into AR = ( 3 + we Solution

get AR = ( +

| | = units

Distance between two lines

( + ( +
Note that:
3
(i) If r1 and r2 are parallel, the distance
 ( ) ( + ( +
between the two lines is the length of any
3
line segment P1P2 with P1 on r1 and P2 on r2 So we have A(2+λ, -λ, 3 +2λ)
perpendicular to both lines
( + ( +

 ( ) ( + ( +

The perpendicular distance, d = | | Thus B(1+μ, -1 – μ, 4+2μ)

But P1P2 = OP2 – OP1 AB = OB – OA
 P1P2.b = 0, where b is a parallel vector to the
lines. λ
This enables us to find the value of either =( – ) ( –λ +
μ1 – μ2 or μ2 – μ1 which is substituted to 3 λ
find d = | |
(ii) If r1 and r2 are not parallel (skew lines), ( +
there are unique points P1 on r1 and P2 on r2
such that the length of the segment P1P2 is
b=0
the shortest possible distance. The length
P1P2 is the distance between the two lines
which is the common perpendicular to both ( + ( +
lines r1 and r2.
The distance, d, between skew lines
r1 = a1 + μ1b1 and r2 = a2 + μ2b2 is normally
taken to be the shortest distance
d = ⌈( ) ̂⌉, where ̂
| |
and
By substitution
n = b1 x b2.
AB =
Example 22

Determine the shortest distance between the

following pairs of lines | | √
3

(a) ( + ( + and
3

24digitalteachers.co.ug
 ( )

(b) and |( ) ̂| | |
Solution
The distance apart is units

(d) ( + ( + and

( + ( +

Solution
Let and
( + ( +=( 3 + and
So we have
A(2+λ, 1-λ, 3+2λ) and B(-1-μ, 3+μ, 1+2μ) ( + ( + ( +
AB = OB – OA
= | | 3
λ 3 ̂ ( )
( 3 + ( λ+ ( +
3 λ ( ) ̂ (3+ ( +
Now AB.b = 0
3 3
( + ( + ( 3 )
3 3
|( ) ̂| | | 3
3
The distance apart is 3 units
By substitution;
AB = Angle between two lines
d=| | √ = units The angle between two lines is equivalent to the
angle between their parallel vectors.
(c) ( + ( + and

(3+ ( +

Solution

( + (3+=( + and It the illustration above, there are two angles: θ

and 180 – θ i.e. is obtuse.
( + ( + ( +
Example 23
| | (a) Determine the acute angle between each of
the pairs of the lines
̂ ( + (i) r1 = 2i + j – k + λ(2i + 3j + 6k) and
r2 = i + 2j -3k + μ(2i – 2j + k)
( ) ̂ ( + ( +

25digitalteachers.co.ug
 Solution √( ) √( ) cosθ
r1 is parallel to b1 = 2i + 3j + 6k and (1 + m1m2)2=(1 + m12 + m22 + m12m22)cos2θ
r2 is parallel to b2 =2i – 2j + k
Using b1b2 = | || | sec2θ= 1+ tan2θ = ( )
(2i + 3j + 6k).( 2i – 2j + k)
( )
=( 3 ) tan2θ = ( ) ( )
4 – 6 + 6 = (7)(3)cosθ
( ) tanθ =

(ii) and
( )
Solution
Exercise 4

r1 is parallel to b1 = ( 3 +and 1. Find the vector equation for the line passing
through
(a) (4, 3) and is parallel to vector i – 2j
r2 is parallel to b2 =( +
* ( ) ( )+
3
Using b1b2 = | || | (b) (5, -1, 3) and parallel to vector 4i – 3j +k

( 3 +. ( + [ + ( ( 3+]
3
=( 3 ) 2. Find a vector equation for the line joining
-8+18+5 = ( )( )cosθ the following point
3
( ) (a) (2, 6) and (5, -2) * ( ) ( )+
(b) (-1, 2, -3) and(6, 3, 0)
In general, angle θ between the lines

r1 = a1 + μb1 and r2 = a2 + λb2 is [ ( + ( +]

3
3. (a) Point A and B have coordinates (4, 1) and
(| || |
)
(2, -5) respectively. Find the vector equation
(b) Given the equation of two lines are fot the line which passes through the point A
y = m1x + c1 and y = m2x + c2. Show that and perpendicular to point AB
(i) Their vector equations are respectively 3
* ( ) ( )+
( * ( * and ( * ( * (b) Point P and Q have coordinates (3, 5)
and (-3, -7) respectively. Find vector
where μ and λ are constant
equation for the line which passes
Solution
through the point P which is
 and
perpendicular to PQ
i.e. ( * ( * and ( * ( * 3
* ( ) ( )+
4. Find a vector equation for perpendicular
(ii) The angle, θ, between them is bisector of the points
( ) (a) (6, 3) and (2, -5) * ( ) ( )+
3
Solution (b) (7, -1) and(3, -3) * ( ) ( )+
5. Points P, Q and R have position vectors
( * ( * 4i – 4j, 2i + 2j and 8i + 6j respectively.

26digitalteachers.co.ug
 (a) Find a vector equation for L1 which is The Plane
perpendicular bisector to points P and
3 3 Equation of a plane
Q. * ( ) ( )+
(I) Determining the equation of the plane
(b) Find a vector equation for L2 which is
given a vector perpendicular to the plane
perpendicular bisector to points P and
and one point contained in the plane.
Q. * ( ) (
)+
3
(c) Hence find the position vector of the
point * +
6. Two lines L1 and L2 have equations

( ) ( + (3+ and
3
In the figure, A is a point in the plane
( ) ( + ( +
n is the perpendicular vector to the plane
(a) Show that L1 and L2 are concurrent and R is the general point in the plane
(meet at a common point) and find the
position vector of their point of Since n is perpendicular to AR, then
intersection. [2i + 5j + 9k] n.AR = 0
(b) Find the angle between L1 and L2. [15.60]
7. Points P, Q, and R have coordinates (-1, 1), i.e. n.(r – a) = 0 ……………..(i)
(4, 6) and (7, 3) respectively.
(a) Show that the perpendicular distance Let n = ( ), A(x1, y1, z1) and R (x, y, z)
from the point R to the line PQ is 3 .
(b) Deduce the area of the triangle PQR is Substituting these into equation (i)
15 sq. units
8. Point A, B and C have position vectors
( ) ( +
–i + 3j + 5k, 5i 6j – 4k and 4i + 7j + 5k
respectively. P is the point ON AB such that
AP = λAB. Find a(x – x1) + b(y – y1) + c(z – z1) = 0
(a) AB ax + by +cz – (ax1 + by1 +cz1)= 0
(b) CP
(c) The perpendicular distance from the let d = ax1 + by1 +cz1
point C to the line AB [3 3] {m v  ax + by +cz = d
9. Two lines L1 and L2 have vector equation
r1 = (2 - 3λ)i + ( 1 + λ)j + 4λk and Hence the Cartesian equation of the plane is
r2 = (-1 + 3μ)i + 3j + (4 – μ)k. Find ax + by +cz = d where d is a constant and the
(a) The position vector of their common coefficient of x, y and z form the
point of intersection.[r = -4i + 3j +8k] perpendicular or normal vector.
(b) The angle between the lines [143.70] Note: the above equation may be written as

( )

( )

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This is called the scalar product of the vector 4x 6 y + 5z =27
equation of the plane
(II) Determining the equation of the plane
Example 24 given three non-collinear points.
Several methods are employed including the
(a) Find the vector normal to the plane
four outlined in the following example.
3x – 2y + z = 7

Solution
Example 25
The coefficient of x, y and z is 3i – 2j +k
(a) Find the equation of the plane containing
3 the points A(1, 1, 1), B(5, 0, 0) and C(3, 2, 1)
Hence the normal vector is ( +
Solution

(b) Find the equation of the plane that is normal Method 1

to 5i – j +2k and passes through A(4, 1, -3)
Let the equation of the plane be
Solution
ax + by + cz = d
Either:
As the three points lie in the same plane,
their coordinates satisfy the above equation
( + ( +
3 Substituting for A, B and C coordinates in the
general equation
5x – 20 – y + 1 + 2z + 6 = 0
For A(1, 1, 1): a + b + c = d …………………….(i)
5x – y + 2z =13
For B(5, 0, 0): 5a = d …………………………… (ii)
Or:
For C(3, 2, 1): 3a + 2b + c ……………………. (iii)
Using the general equation ax + by + cz = d
Solving for a, b, and c in terms of d:
5x – y + 2z = (5x 4 )- 1 +(2 x -3)

5x – y + 2z = 13 From Eqn. (ii) a =

(c) Find the equation of the plane that is normal Substituting for a into eqn. (i)
to 4i + 6j + 5k and passes through the point
=> b + c = …………. (iv)
with position vector i + 3j + k.

Solution Substituting for a into eqn. (iii)

Either: 3( ) => 2b + c = ……..(v)

Eqn. (v) –eqn. (iv): b =

( 3+ ( +
Substituting b into eqn. (iv)
4x – 4 + 6y - 18 + 5z - 5 = 0
=> c =
4x 6 y + 5z =27
Substituting a, b, and c into the equation
Or:
ax + by + cz = d
Using the general equation ax + by + cz = d

4x + 6y + 5z = (4x 1 )+ 6 x 3 +(5 x 1)

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 Multiplying through by λ = y -1 + (1-z) = y - z

x – 2y + 6c = 5 is the equation of the plane Substituting μ and λ in equation (i)

Method 2 x = 1 + 4(1-z) + 2(y – z)

One of the normal vectors of the plane is = 1 + 4 -4z + 2y-2z

x – 2y + 6z = 5
AB.AC = 0
Note that:
Where AB = OB – OA = ( + ( + ( +
- If the plane passes through the origin, then
its equation is r = μb + λc
3 - The plane r = a + μb + λc passes through
And AC = OC – OA =( + ( + ( + point a with position vector a and is parallel
to b and c.
- If the vectors a, b and c are coplanar, then
Now, AB x AC = ( + ( +=( + the sum of the coefficients of a, b and c
must be zero.
If R(x, y, z) is the general point in the plane,
Method 4
then AR is normal to AB x AC.
This involves finding the determinant of a
(r-a).(AB x AC) = 0
3 x 3 matrix. Taking A as the principal point,
we have
( + ( +

AB x AC = ( +
x – 1 -2y + 2 + 6z – 6 = 0

x – 2y + 6z = 5  (x – 1)1 – (y -1)2 + (z – 1)6 = 0

x – 1 – 2y + 2 + 6z – 6 = 0
Method 3
x – 2y + 6z = 5
Let R be the general point in the plane (d) Find the equation of the plane containg the
points A(1, 2, 5), B(1, 0, 4) and C(5, 2,1)
The AR = μAB + λAC for scalars μ and λ.
Solution
r – a = μAB + λAC
Using the determinant method
r = a + μAB + λAC
AB = OB – OA
( ) ( + ( + ( +
=( + ( + ( +
Equating the coefficients of x, y and z
AC = OC - OA
x = 1 + 4μ + λ …………………. (i)

y = 1 – μ + λ ……………………(ii) =( + ( + ( +
z = 1 – μ ………………………….(iii)

From eqn. (iii): μ = 1 – z AB x AC = ( 3 +

Substituting for μ
 (x – 1)8 – (y -2)4 + (z – 5)8 = 0

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 (x – 1)2 – (y -2) + (z – 5)2 = 0 Solution
Method 1
2x –y + 2z = 10
The corresponding vector equations of the
(III) Determining the equation of the plane above lines are as follows
given one point and a line in the plane. 3
( + ( + and
Here more points are obtained from the 3
equation and the problem worked out as in 3
( + ( + respectively
(III).
3 3
Example 26 Taking μ = 0, the 1st point is A(3, -1, 3)
Taking μ = 1, the 2nd point is B(8, 1, 4)
(a) Find the equation of the plane through the Taking λ = 1, the 3rd point is C(5, 3, 6)
point (1, 0, 1) and containing the line So with three points obtained, the above
. methods can be used.
Solution 3
The vector equation for the line is Now AB = OB – OA =( + ( + ( +
3
3
r = ( ++μ( +
And AC = OC – OA =(3+ ( + ( +
Let 1st given point be P(1, 0, -1): 3 3
The normal vector
Taking μ = 0: the 2nd point is O(0, 0, 0)
Taking μ = 1; the 3rd point Q(1, -1, 2) n = AB x AC ( + ( + ( 3+
3
Thus OP = ( + and OQ = ( + Taking the point (3, -1, 3) which lies on the
1st line: the equation of the plane is
The normal vector is 3
( + ( 3+
Op x OQ= ( + ( + ( 3+
3
2x – 6 – 13y – 13 + 16z – 48 = 0
The equation of the plane is
2x - 13y + 16z = 67
( + ( 3+ Method 2
The parallel vectors of the given lines are
x + 3y + z = 0
Using determinant method ( + and ( + respectively.
3
Op x OQ=( )
The normal vector, n ( + ( + ( 3+
x(-1) – y(3) + z(-1) = 0 3
x + 3y + z = 0 Taking the point (3, -1, 3) as before
3
x + 3y + z = 0
( + ( 3+
3
(IV) Determining the equation of the plane 2x - 13y + 16z = 67
given two lines in the plane.
This can be tackled in two ways (V) Determining the equation of the plane
Example 27 given one point in the plane and a
Find the equation of the plane containing perpendicular line.
the lines Example 28
and

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 Find the equation of the plane perpendicular Equation of the plane
to the line and passing -x – 6y +7z = -1(1) – 6(0) + 7(-1)
through point B(1, -3, 2)
Solution x + 6y – 7z = 8
The parallel vector to the line is 2i – j + 3k (VIII) Determining the equation of the plane
This means that this vector is also given a line in the plane and a parallel
perpendicular to the plane vector.
The equation of the plane is Example 31
Find the equation of the plane containing
( 3+ ( +
3 ( + ( + and parallel to ( +
2x – 2 – y – 3 + 3z - 6 = 0
3
2x – y + 3z = 11 Solution
(VI) Determining the equation of the plane The normal vector
given two points in the plane.
n = b1 x b2 =( + ( + ( +
Example 29
3 3
Find the equation of the plane containing Equation of the plane is
the points A(1, 2, -1) and B(4, -3, 2) -7x – y + 3z = -7(1) – 2 + 3(1) = -6
Solution 7x + y – 3z = 6

a=( + and b = ( + Intersection of two planes

Two plane always on a line
The normal vector is

a x b= ( + ( + ( +

the equation of the line is thus

( + ( +

x – 6y – 11z = 0 Solving the two equations of the lines

(VII) Determining the equation of the plane simultaneously gives equation of this line
given two parallel lines. Example 32
Example 30 Find the Cartesian equation of the lines of
intersection of the following planes
Find the equation of the plane passing (a) 3x – 5y + z = 8 and 2x – 3y +z = 3
through (1, 0, -1) and parallel to the line Solution
Method 1
( + (3+ and Note: solving for three unknown from two
equations is quite hard, so we express then
in terms of a constant say λ
( + ( + Let 3x – 5y + z = 8 ………………… (i)
and 2x – 3y +z = 3 ………………… (ii)
Solution Eqn. (i) – eqn. (ii)
x – 2y = 5
The normal vector,
Let x = λ => λ - 26 = 5 i.e. ( )
Substituting for x and y into eqn. (ii)
n = b1 x b2 =(3+ ( + ( +

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 ( ) 3 => ( ) Then x = 1 +2μ, y = 1+7μ and z = -2 - 17μ
The Cartesian equation is
So x = λ, ( ), ( )
To eliminate fractions let λ = 1 + 2μ
x= 1 + 2μ, y = -2 + μ, z = -5 – μ
Method 2
( ) ( + ( +, the vector Parallel vector
3
equation b = n1 x n2 = ( + ( 3+ ( +
Cartesian equation
Method 2 The equation of the line is r = + ( +
The parallel vector
3
b = n1 x n2 = ( + ( 3+ ( + Let 3x + 4y + 2z = 3 …………….(i)
and 2x – 3y – z = 1 ……………. (ii)
2en. (i) – eqn. (ii)
( +
17y + 7z = 3
Let y = 1, 17 + 7z = 3 => z =
The equation of the line is r = a + ( +
Substituting for y and z into eqn. (i)
From the equation 3x – 5y + z and 3x + 4 + 2(-2) = 3 =>x = 1
2x – 3y + z = 3, subtracting
( + ( + vector equation
 x – 2y = 5
Or
when x = 1, 1 – 2y = 5 i.e. y = -2
Substituting for r
substituting in the first equation
( ) ( + ( +
3(1) – 5(-2) + z = 8 i.e. z = -5
, Cartesian equation
r=( ++ ( + vector equation
Intersection of three planes
OR
Three planes may intersect at a point or on a
Substituting for r
line (if they meet)
( )=( ++ ( +

Cartesian equation

(b) 3x + 4y + 2z = 3 and 2x – 3y – z = 1
Let 3x + 4y + 2z = 3 …………….(i)
and 2x – 3y – z = 1 ……………. (ii)
2en. (i) – eqn. (ii)
17y + 7z = 3
Let y = λ, 17λ + 7z = 3 => z = (I) Intersection of three planes at point
Substituting for y and z into eqn. (i) Example 33
3x + 4λ + (3 )=3 => x = ( )
Find the point of intersection of the three
x= ( ), y = λ, z = planes
Let λ = 1+ 7μ ( to eliminate fractions)
x + 2y – z = 2, 3x – y + z = 3 and 2x + y -3z =3

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 Solution 2 + 5λ + (-1 + 3λ) – (3 + 2λ) = 15
λ=2
Form simultaneous equation
Substituting λ into parametric equations
x + 2y – z = 2…………..(i) x = 2 + 5(2) = 12
y = (-1 + 3(2))=5
3x – y + z = 3 ………….(ii) z = (3 + 2(2)) = 7
2x + y -3z =3 …………..(iiI) Hence the point of intersection (x, y, z) is
(12, 5, 7)
Solving simultaneously the point of
intersection is (1, 1, 1) Perpendicular distance from a point to the
plane
(II) Intersection of three planes at point
A. Perpendicular distance from the origin to
If a plane and a line meet, they do so at a
the plane
particular point.
Rewriting the equation r.n = d in the form
Example 33
r. ̂ = d1 where ̂ is the unit normal to the plane
(a) Find the point where the line
Or
meets the plane
By using the general formula, the perpendicular
3x – y + 2Z = 8
distance from a plane ax + by + cz + d = 0 to
Solution
Expressing the equation of the line in the point (x1, y1, z1) is given by the expression
parametric form | |

Let
Then x = 3 – λ, y = 1+2λ and z = -3 + 4λ Example 34
Substituting for parametric equations into
(a) Find the distance from the origin to the
the equation of the plane
plane 4x + 8y – z = 18
3(3 – λ) - ( 1+2λ) 2(-3 + 4λ) = 8 => λ = 2
Solution
Substituting for λ into parametric equations
x = 3 – 2=1, y = 1+2(2) = 5 and The normal vector n =( + and
z = -3 + 4(2) =5
Hence the point of intersection (x, y, z) is | | √ ( ) =9
(1, 5, 5)
Now ̂ ( +
(b) Fins the position vector of a point where
 ( +
the line ( + (3+meets the
3
Or
plane r.( +
By using the general formula, rewrite the
Solution equation of the plane as

( ) ( + (3+ 4x + 8y – z – 18 = 0, a = 4, b = 8, c = -1 and
3 d= -18
The parametric equations of the line are
x =2 + 5λ, y = -1 + 3λ and z = 3 + 2λ At the origin (x1, y1, z1)= (0, 0, 0)
The equation of the plane is x + 2y –z = 15 | ( ) ( ) ( ) |
Substituting parametric equations into the √ ( )
equation of the plane

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 Method 2
The parallel plane containing the point given
(b) Find the perpendicular distance from the
is obtained and the absolute difference of
origin to the plane r.(2i – 14j + 5k) = 10
the resulting length of the plane from the
Solution
origin computed.
The normal vector n =( + and Equation of the plane: 12x – 3y – 4z = 39 ..(i)
Equation of parallel plane 12x – 3y – 4z =D
| | √ ( ) =15 for any constant D.
Since this parallel contains the point
Now ̂ ( + (5, -3, 1): 12(5)-3(-3)-4(1) = 65 = D
The parallel plane: 12x – 3y – 4z =65 ……(ii)
In both planes, the normal vector
 ( +
n = 12i – 3j - 4k
| | √ ( 3) ( ) = 13
Or
Dividing equation by 13:
By using the general formula, rewrite the
equation of the plane as The distance between two planes is
2x – 14y + 5z – 10=0, a = 2, b = -14, c = 5 and | 3|
d= -10 the distance from point (5, -3, 1) to the
plane 12x – 3y – 4z = 39 is 2 units.
At the origin (x1, y1, z1)= (0, 0, 0)
| ( ) ( ) ( ) | Method 3
√ ( ) ( ) AP= λn (AP is parallel to n)

B. Perpendicular distance for a given point

rather than origin to a plane

Several methods are employed

Example 35

(a) Determine the distance from the lane Given the equation of the plane
12x – 3y – 4z = 39 to the point (5, 3, 1) 12x – 3y – 4z = 39
Solution
Method1 Let n = ( 3+ and A(5, -3, 1)

The perpendicular distance from a plane Substitute in AP = λn

ax + by + cz + d = 0 to the point (x1, y1, z1) is p – a = λn
given by the expression
( ) ( 3+ ( 3+ ( 3 3 +
| |

, y = -3 - 3λ, z = 1 - 4λ
By substitution
| ( ) ( ) ( ) | Substitute these in the equation of the plane
√ ( ) ( ) 12x – 3y – 4z = 39
Note that the equation of the plane should 12(5 - 12λ) – 3(-3 - 3λ) – 4(1 - 4λ) = 39
be rewritten in the form f(x, y, z) = 0 before λ=
applying the formula.
AP = ( 3+

| | √ ( 3) ( ) = units

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Angle between two planes Example 37

The angle say θ between the planes r.n1= d1 and (a) Find the acute angle between the line
r.n2 = d2 is the angle between the normal vectors and the plane 3x – 5y + 4z
of the two planes. This is given by =5
(⌈ ⌉| |
) Solution

Example 36
The line is parallel to b =( + and the
Determine the angle between the planes
3
4x + 3y + 12z = 10 and 4x – 3y = 7 normal vector to the plane is n = ( +

Solution
3
( + ( +
The normal n1 = ( 3 + and n2 = ( 3+

respectively. = 3

3=
( 3 + ( 3+= 3 3

16 – 9 = (b) Find the angle between the line

( ) 3 r=( + ( + and the plane

Angle between a line and a plane 4x + 3y – 3z = -1

Solution

The line is parallel to b =( + and the normal

vector to the plane is n = ( 3 +

3

( + (3+
3
The angle between a line and a plane is the = 3 3
angle between the normal vector to the plane
and the parallel vector to the line. 50=

Given a line r = a + λb and the plane r.n = d, the 3

angle θ between them can be computed from
the dot product of vectors as Exercise 5
1. Find the equation of the plane containing
b.n = | || | ( ) points P(1, 1, 1), Q(1, 2, 0) and R(-1, 2, 1).
=| || | [ ]
2. Find the equation of the plane containing
(⌈ ⌉| |
) point (4, -2, 3) and parallel to the plane
3x – 7z = 12

35digitalteachers.co.ug
 [3 ] 14. Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
3. Show that the point with position vector
7i – 5j – 4k lies in the plane containing the position vector (3+ and
r = 4i + 3j + 2k + λ(i – j –k) +μ(2i + 3j + k). Find
the point at which the line x = y – 1=2z parallel to the vectors ( + and ( +.
intersects the plane 4x – y + 3z = 8 [(2, 3, 1)] 3 3
4. Find the parametric equation for the line [3 ]
through the point (0, 1, 2) that is parallel to 15. Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
the plane x + y + z = 2 and perpendicular to containing the points with position vectors
the line x = 1 + t, y = 1 – t, z = 2t. 3
[ 3 ] ( + ( + ( 3+
5. Find the distance between parallel planes 3
[3 ]
z= x + 2y + 1 and 3x + 6y – 3z = 4 * + 16. Find the perpendicular distance from the
6. Two planes are given by their parametric plane r.(2i – 14j +5k) = 10 to the origin * +
equation: x = r + s, y = 3s, z = 2r and 17. Find the position vector of the point where
x = 1+ r + s, y = 2 + r, z = -3 + s. Find the
Cartesian equation of the in intersection the line ( + (3+ meets the plane
point. [ 3 ] 3
7. The equation of a plane P is given by
r.( + [( +]
r.( + 33, where r is position vector of P
18. Two line have vector equations
Find the perpendicular distance from the 3
( + ( +and
origin to the plane[3 ]
8. The line through point (1, -2, 3) and parallel
to the line meets the lane ( + ( +. Find the position
x + 2y + 2z = 8 at Q. Find the coordinates of
vector of the point of intersection of the two
Q. *( )+ lines and the Cartesian equation of the plane
9. (a) Find the angle between the plane containing the two lines.
x + 4y – z = 72 and the line r = 9i + 6j + 8k.
[3 ] [( 3 + 3 ]
10. Obtain the equation of the plane that passes
Example 38 (mixed questions)
through (1, -2, 2) and perpendicular to the
1. The position vector of point A is 2i + 3j + k,
line [ ] of B is 5j + 4k and of C is i + 2j + 12k. Show
11. Find the parametric equations of the line of that ABC is a triangle.
intersection of the planes x + y + z = 4 and x
– y + 2z + 2= 0 Solution
[ 3 3 ]
12. Find the points of intersection of the three
planes 2x – y + 3z = 4, 3x – 2y + 6z = 4 and
7x – 4y + 5z = 11. [( )]
13. Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
with parametric vector equation
3
r=( + ( + ( +
a = 2i + 3k + k
[ 3 ]
b = 5j + 4k

36digitalteachers.co.ug
 c = i+2j + 12k Let =μ

 ( ) ( + ( + …………………. (i)
Two conditions must b fulfilled: 3
And
1st condition
=λ
For a triangle to be, ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
 ( ) ( + ( + ……………………. (ii)
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ = 0 3
Equating eqn. (i) and eqn. (ii)
= (OB – OA) + (OC –OB) + (OA – OC)
( + ( + ( + ( +
=( + (3+ ( + ( + (3+ ( + 3 3
Equating corresponding unit vectors
=( + ( 3+ ( +=( + 5 + 4μ = 8 + 7λ
3
4μ - 7λ = 3……………………………..…. (iii)
Second condition
7 + 4μ = 4 + λ
We work out for any angle and if it is not 00 or
1800, then we conclude that ABC is a triangle 4μ - λ = -3……………………..………. (iv)

Now finding angle A Eqn. (iii) – eqn.(iv)

From dot product of vectors -6λ = 6

AB.AC = | || | λ = -1

cosA = | Substituting λ in eqn. (ii)

|| |

AB.AC = (-2i + 2j +3k).(-I –j + 11k) ( ) ( + ( +

= 2 – 2 + 33 = 33 3

| | √( ) 3 ( ) ( + (3+
3
=
(x, y, z) = (1, 3,2)
| | √( )
(b) The equations of a line and a plane are
3 and 2x + y + 4z = 9
respectively. P is a point on the line where x
A= ( ) = 43.80
= 3, N is the foot of the perpendicular from
Since A is not 00 or 1800, hence ABC is a triangle P to the plane. Find the coordinates of N.
Solution
NB. The above two conditions must be clearly
shown in order for the candidate to get all the
marks.

2. (a) Find the point of intersection of the lines

and
Solution

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 Line equation ( ) ………………(iv)
() ( )
( ) ( + ( + x+z=5–λ
3 λ = -x –z + 5
Substituting for λ into eqn. (iv)
When x = 3
x + y =4 -6(-x –z + 5)
3 = 2 + λ; λ = 1
3 5x –y + 6z -26 = 0
 OP = ( + ( + ( +
3 Method 2
P(3, 4, 5) Let the equation of the plane be
Plane equation: 2x + y + 4z = 9 ax + by + cz = d
Substituting point (2, 2, 3) in equation
( + 2a + 2b +3c = d ………………………………… (i)
Substituting point (3, 1, 2) in equation
( + 3a + b + 2c = d ………………………………… (ii)
Substituting point (0, -2, 4) in equation
NP = n -2b + 4c =d ……………………………………… (iii)
NP = OP – ON We have to solve for a, b, c and d
ON = OP – NP 3Eqn.(i) – 2Eqn. (ii)
3 6a + 6b + 9c = 3d
=( + ( + (3+ - 6a + 2b + 4c = 2d
4b + 5c = d…………………………(iv)
N(1, 3, 1)
2eqn. (iii) + eqn. (iv)
3. (a) Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
-4b + 8c = 2d
through the points whose position vectors
+4b + 4c = d
are 2i + 2j + 3k, 3i + j + 2k and -2j + 4k.
13c = 3d
(06marks)
c= d
Solution From eqn. (iv)
Method 1 4b + ; 4b = d - =
Let OA = 2i + 2j + 3k From eqn. (i)
OB = 3i + j + 2k
2a - + =d
OC = -2j + 4k
Let R be the general point in the plane 2a = d + - =
Then AR = μ(AB) + λAC a=
OR = OA + μ(OB – OA) + λ(OC – OA)
Substituting for a, b, c in the equation of the
3 plane
( ) ( + *( + ( +
3 3

[( + ( +]+
3 (b) Determine the angle between the plane in (a)

( ) ( + ( + ( + and the line . (06marks)

3 Let n = normal vector to the plane
………………. (i) b = parallel vector to the plane
……………….. (ii)  b = 2i – 4j + k
3 …………………(iii) n =5i –j + 6k
() ( ) Let θ = angle between the line and the plane

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 b.n = | || |sin B divides AC internally in ration of 2:1

( + ( + (√ ( ) . ( + { ( ) ( +}

√ ( ) )sinθ
( )
3( + ( ) ( +
3
; θ = 33.660 (2D)
( ) {( + ( +}
4. Three points A(2, -1, 0), B(-2, 5, -4) and C are
on a straight line such that 3AB = 2AC. Find
the coordinates of C.
Solution ( ) ( +=( +
Method 1
Hence C(-4, 8, -6)
3(AB) = 2AC
5. (a) Line A is the intersection of two planes
whose equations are
( ) 3x –y + z = 2 and x + 5y +2z = 6. Find the
equation of the line.
[( + ( +] ( ) ( + 3x –y + z = 2 ………………….. (i)
x + 5y +2z = 6 ………………… (ii)
( + ( ) ( + 5eqn. (i) + eqn. (ii)
15x -5y +5z = 10
+ x + 5y + 2z = 6
( + ( ) ( + 16x + 7z = 16
Let x = λ
( ) ( + ( + 16λ + 7z = 16
z= ( )
Substituting for x and z in equation (i)
( ) ( +
3λ – y + ( )=2
Hence coordinates of C are (-4, 8, -6) 21λ – 7y + 16 - 16λ = 14
Method 2
y= ( )
Using ratio theorem
let λ = 1 + 7μ
=> x = 1 + 7μ
y= ( ( ))
= ( 3 )
C divides externally in the ratio 3: -1 = 1 + 5μ
( ) ( )
OC = z= ( ( ))
( )
= ( ))
OC = {3 ( + ( +}
= -16μ

= ( + ( + =( + ( +

Hence C(-4, 8, -6)

( ) ( + ( +

Method 3

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(b) Given that line B is perpendicular to the y = 1 + λ= 2 + 2μ ……………..(ii)
plane 3x –y + z = 2and passes through the z = 2λ = t + λ …………………... (iii)
point C(1, 1, 0), find the From eqn. (i)
(i) Cartesian equation of line B 2 + λ = 2+ μ
Solution λ=μ
Normal to the plane b = 3i –j + k From eqn. (ii)
r = a + λb 1 + λ= 2 + 2μ
3 1 + μ = 2 + 2μ
=( + ( + μ = λ = -1
From eqn. (iii)
3
( ) ( + ( + 2λ = t + λ
2(-1) = t – 1
t = -1
(ii) the coordinates of the point of
(ii) angle between line B and line A in (a) intersection. (08marks)
above x =2 + λ = 2 -1 = 1
Solution y = 1 + λ = 1 -1 = 0
Let b1 = 7i + 5j – 16k and b2 = 3i –j + k z = 2λ = 2(-1) = -2
and θ = angle between line A and line B (x, y, z) = (1, 0, -2)
b1.b2 = | || | 7. Determine the angle between the lines
b1.b2 = (7i + 5j – 16k).( 3i –j + k) and the plane 4x + 3y – 3z
= 21 -5 – 16 = 0 + 1 = 0 (05marks)
| || |
cosθ = 0 ( + (3+
3
6. (a) The points A and B have position vectors √ ( ) √ 3 ( 3)
a and b. A point C with vector position c lies 32 + 6 + 12 = 3 sinθ
on AB such that . sin θ =
Show that c = (1 – λ)a + λb. (04marks) θ = 69.330
Solution 8. The position vectors of the vertices of a
̅̅̅̅ triangle are O, r and s, where O is the origin.
̅̅̅̅
Show that its area (A) is given by 4A2
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ =| | | | ( ) . (06marks)
(̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
c – a = λ(b – a)
c = a + λ(b – a)
= (1 – λ)a + λb

(b) The vector equation of two lines are;

r1 = 2i + j + λ(i + j + 2k) and

r.s = | || |
r2 = 2i+ 2j + tk + ( )
( ) | | | |
where i, j and k are unit vectors and λ, μ ( ) | | | | ( )
| | | | | | | |
and t are constants. Given that the two
lines intersect, find | || |
(i) the value of t. 2A = | || |
x = 2 + λ = 2+ μ ……………… (i) 4A2 = | | | |

40digitalteachers.co.ug
 | | | | ( ) tanθ = tan (β – α)
4A2 = | | | | | | | |
4A2 = | | | | ( ) =
Hence, find the area of a triangle when =( )
r = ( ) and s = ( ) (06marks) θ = tan-1( )
3
| | 3 3
But λ1 = -1 and λ2 = 3
| |
θ = tan-1( )= 750
( ) ( ) ( ) (3 ) ( )
3
2 2
4A = 13 x 17 – 14 = 25

√ = 2.5units Topical revision questions

9. Given the plane 4x + 3y – 3z-4 = 0 1. (a) The position vectors of points A, B and C
(a) Show that the point A(1,1,1) lies on the are 2i –j +5k, i – 2j +k and 3i +j – 2k
plane (02marks) respectively. Give that L and M are the
Solution midpoint of AC and CB. Show that LM is
Substitute A(1, 1, 1) into the equation of parallel to BA.
plane (b) Show that the points with position
4x1 +3x1–3x1–4=0 vectors 4i – 8j – 13k, 5i – 2j – 3k and
Hence the point lies on the plane 5i + 4j + 10k are vertices of a triangle
(b) Find the perpendicular distance from 2. (a) The position vector of a body of mass 12
the plane to the point B(1, 5,1) .5kg is 8t2i + 6tj meters at a given time t.
(03marks) determine the
| | (i) Velocity after 4s.[ ]
d= = 2.058
√ ( ) (ii) The force acting on the body
10. (a) Determine the perpendicular distance of [200N horizontally]
the point (4, 6) from the line 2x + 4y -3 = 0 (b) The vector OA is represented by
(03marks) displacement vector a and OB by b.
Solution Point R divides AB in the ration λ:μ. Find
[ ( ) ( ) ]
Perpendicular distance, d = = the position vector of R in terms of
vectors a and b and the scalars λ and μ.
= 64846
* +
(b) Show that the angle θ, between two
lines with gradient λ1 and λ2 is given by (c) If the points P, Q and R have position
θ = tan-1( ).Hence find the acute vector p, q and r respectively, and M is
the midpoint of QR, show that the
angle between the lines x + y + 7 = 0 and position vector of N is a point on PM
3 (09 marks)
that PN:NM =2:1 is ( ).
Solution
3. (a) Determine a unit vector perpendicular to
the plane containing the points A(0, 2, -4),
B(2, 0, 2) and C(-8, 4, 0) 3
(b) Find the equation of the plane
[ 3 ]
(c) Show that the point (5, -4, 3) lies on the
plane [does on lie on the line]
(d) Write down the equation in form of
Tanα = λ2, tanβ = λ1 r = a + μb of the perpendicular through
α + θ = β; θ = β – α

41digitalteachers.co.ug
 the point P(3, 4, 2) to the plane (c) (i) Given that R is a point at which AB
[ 3 ( 3 )] meets the plane OPQ, find the
(e) If the perpendicular meats the plane at coordinates of R [( )]
N. determine NP [4.022units] (ii) Show that the point S(1, -1, 2) lies on
4. (a) A and B are points whose position OR.
vectors are a = 2i + k and b = i – j + 3k 7. The points A, B, and C have position vectors
respectively. Determine the position vector (-2i + 3j), (i – 2j), and (8i -5j) respectively.
of the point P that divides AB in the ratio 4:1 (a) Find the vector equation of line AC
* ( )+ * ( ) ( )+
3
(b) Given that a = i – 3j +3k and (b) Determine the coordinates of D if ABCD
b = -i -3j + 2k determine is a parallelogram [5, 0]
(i) The equation of the plane containing a (c) Write down the vector equation of the
and b [ 3 ] line through which point B
(ii) The angle the line makes perpendicular to AC and find where it
with the plane in (i) above. [ ] meets AC * +
5. A vector XY of magnitude a units makes an 8. (a) In the triangle ABC, P is the point on BC
angle of α with the horizontal. Another such that BP : PC = λ:μ.
vector YZ beginning from the end Y, inclined Show that (λ+μ)AP = λAC + μAB
at an angle β to the same horizontal axis is (b) Three non collinear points A, B, and C
of magnitude b units. If θ is the angle have position vectors a, b, and c
between the positive directions of the two respectively with respect to O. The point
vectors, where θ = β – α is acute, show that M on AC is such that AM:MC = 2:1 and
the resultant vector XZ has a magnitude xz the point N on AB is such that AN:NB =
equal to units and is 2:1.
inclined at an angle ( ) to the (i) Show that BM = , and find
horizontal. Hence or otherwise calculate the a similar expression for CN
magnitude and direction of the resultant
[ ]
vector of vectors XY and YZ, inclined at 300 3 3
and 750 to the horizontal and magnitude 9 (ii) The line BM and CN intersect at L.
and 6 units respectively. [47.70] Given that BL = rBM and CL = sCN,
6. (a) The position vector of points A and B where r and s are scalars, express BL
with respect to the origin O are and CL in terms of r, s, a, b, and c.
3
( + ( + respectively. Determine 3 3
[ ]
the equation of the line AB 3 3
3 (iii) Hence by using triangle BLC or
[ ( + ( +]
otherwise find r and s * +
(b) Find the equation of the plane OPQ 9. Find the distance of the point (-2, 0, 6) from
where O is the origin and P and Q are the plane 2x – y + 3z = 21 [1.8708 units]
points whose position vectors are 10. ABCD is a quadrilateral with A(2, -2), B(5, -1),
C(6, 2) and D(3, 1). Show that the
(3+ ( + respectively [ ( + quadrilateral is a rhombus.
11. The points P(4, -6, 1), Q(2, 8, 4)and R(3, 7,
] 14) lie in the same plane. Find the angle
between PQ and QR. [84.50]

42digitalteachers.co.ug
 perpendicular to vector i + 3j – 2k is
12. (a) Given that OP = ( 3+ and OQ = ( +, x + 3y – 2z + 10 = 0
(b)(i) Show that the vector 2i – 5j + 3.5k is
find the coordinates of the point R such that
perpendicular to the plane
PR:PQ = 1:2 and the points P, Q and R are
r = 2i –j + λ(4i + 3j + 2k).
collinear. [R(2.5, -1.5, 3.5)]
(ii) Calculate the angle between the vectors
(b) Show that the vector 5i – 2j +k is
3i – 2j + k and the line in b(i) above. [66.60]
perpendicular to the line
21. Find the point of intersection of the line
r = i – 4j + λ(2i + 3j -4k).
(c) Find the equation of the plane through with the plane
the point with position vector 5i – 2j +3k 3x + 4y + 2z – 25 = 0 [(5, 0, 5)]
perpendicular to the vector 3i + 4j – k. 22. (a) Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
[3x + 4y –z = 4] through A(0, 3, -4), B(2, -1, 2) and C(7, 4,-1).
13. Calculate the area of a triangle with vertices Show that Q(10, 13, -10) lies in the same
(-1, 3), (5, 2), (4, -1) [7.6811 sq. units] plane
14. PQRS is a quadrilateral with vertices P(1, -2), (b) Express the equation of the plane in (a)
Q(4, -1), R(5,2) and S(2, 1). in the scalar product form.
[show that PQ is parallel to SR and PS is 3
parallel to QR and that | | | | [ ( + ]
| | | | and PR and QS are
(c) Find the area of ABC in (a) [25.1 Sq.
perpendicular] Units]
15. The vector equation of lines P and Q are 23. The vertices of a triangle are P(2, -1, 5),
given as ( 3 )and Q(7, 1, -3) and R (12, -2, 0). Show that <PQR=
( ) 900. Find the coordinates of S if PQRS is a
Use the dot product to find the angle rectangle [(8, -4, 8)]
between P and Q. [8.130] 24. (a)Find the equation of the perpendicular
16. The vector equations of two lines are
3 line from Pont A =( + onto the line
( ) ( ) and ( ) ( ).
3
Determine the point where r1 meets r2.
[8, -5] ( + ( +. What is the distance of A
17. The equation of three planes P, Q and R are
from r.
2x – y +3z = 3, 3x + y + 2z = 7 and
x +7y – 5z = 13 respectively. Determine
where the three planes intersect. [(-2, 5, 4)] ( +
18. (a) Find in Cartesian form the equation of
the line passing through the points A(1, 2. [ ( ) ]
5), B(1, 0, 4) and C(5, 2, 1). [ since AB = BC, (b) Find the angle contained between the
points A, B and C are not collinear]
(b) Find the angle between the line line OR and x – y plane, where OR =( +
and the plane [41.810]
0
4x + 3y – 3z + 1. [69.32 ] 25. Given that vectors OA = (3, -2, 5) and
19. Show that the equation of the line through OB = (9, 1, -1), find the position vector of
points (1, 2, 1) and (4, -2, 2) is given as point C such that C divides AB internally in
the ration 5:-3
20. (a) Show that the equation of the plane * +
through points with position vector -2i + 4k 26. (a) In a triangle ABC, the altitudes from B
and C meat the opposite sides at E and F

43digitalteachers.co.ug
 respectively. BE and CF intersect at O. Taking
[ ( 3 )]
O as the origin, Use the dot product to prove
that AO is perpendicular to BC. (ii) OQ in terms of a.* +
(b) Prove that <ABC = 900 given that A is 33. A point P has coordinates (1, -2, 3) and a
(0, 5, -3), B(2, 3, -4) and C(1, -1, 2). Find certain plane has equation x + 2y + 2z = 8.
the coordinates of D if ABCD is a The line through P parallel to the line
rectangle. [(-1, 1, 3)]
meets the plane at a point
27. Find the equation of the plane through the
point (1, 2, 3) and perpendicular to the Q. Find the coordinates of Q*( )+
vector r = 4i + 5j + k. [4x 5y +z = 17] 34. Given that the position vectors of A, B, and C
28. (a) Find the equation of the line through 3
A(2, 2, 5) and B(1, 2, 3). are ( + ( + and

[( ) ( + ( +]
( +
(b) If the line in (a) above meets the line
(a) Prove that A, B and C are collinear
at P, find the (b) Find the angle between OA and OB
(i) Coordinate of P [3, 2, 7) [106.10]
(ii) Angle between the lines [171.90] (c) If OABD is parallelogram, find the
29. Given that the vector ai -2j + k and 2ai + aj – position vectors of E and F such that E
4k are perpendicular, find the values of a. divides DA in ratio 1:2 and F divides it
[-1, 2] externally in ratio 1:2.
30. (a) Determine the coordinates of the point
3
of intersection of the line [ ( , ( +]
and the plane x + y + z = 12 [3, 13,-4]
(b) Find the angle between the line 35. Given the vectors a = i -3j + 3k and
and the plane b = -i – 3j + 2k; find the
x + y + z = 12 [50.76850 or 39.25150] (i) Acute angle between vectors a and b
31. Find the point of intersection of the plane [30 .860]
11x – 3y + 7z = 8 and the line (ii) Equation of the plane containing a and b
3 [-3x + 5y + 6z = 0]
( + ( + where μ is a scalar 36. The position vectors of A and B are
OA = 2i – 4j – k and OB = 5i – 2j + 3k
[-4, -1, 7]
respectively. The line AB is produced to
32. (a) Given the vector a = 3i – 2j + k and
meet the plane 2x+ 6y – 3z =-5 at point C.
b = i – 2j +2k, find
Find the
(i) the acute angle between the vectors.
(a) coordinates of C [(8, 0, 7)]
[36.70]
(b) angle between AB and the plane
(ii) vector c such that it is perpendicular to
[9.1690]
both vectors a and b. [ ( +] 37. The points P(2, 3), Q(-11, 8) and R(-4, -5) are
vertices of a parallelogram PQRS which has
(b) Given that OA = a and OB = b, Point R is PR as the diagonal. Find the coordinates of
on OB such that OR : RB = 4:1. Point P is the vertex S. [S(9, -10)]
on BA such that BP:PA = 2:3 and when 38. (a) Find the angle between the planes
RP and OA are both produced they x – 2y + z=0 and x – y = 1 [300]
meet at point Q. Find (b) Two lines are given by the parametric
(i) OR and OP in terms of a and b. equation: -i + 2j + k +t(i – 2j + 3k) and

44digitalteachers.co.ug
 -3i - + pj + 7k + s(i – j + 2k). If the lines (a) Find the vector equation of the line
intersect, find 3
(i) values of t, s and p. [ ( + ( 3+]
[t =10, s = 12, p = -6] 3
(b) Show that the point C(2, 4. 3) lies on the
(ii) coordinates of the points of
line in (a) above.
intersection [(9, 18, 31)]
45. Triangle OAB has OA = a and OB = b. C is a
39. given the points A(-3, 3, 4), B(5, 7, 2) and
C(1, 1, 4), find the vector equation of a line point on OA such that OC = . D is the mid-
which joins the mid-point of AB and BC point of AB. When CD is produced it meets
OB produced at E., such that DE = nCD and
[( ) ( + ( +] BE = kb. Express DE in terms of
3
(a) n, a and b * +
40. (a) The equation of the plane R is
(b) k, a and b * +
r.( 3 + Where r is the position
Hence find the values of n and k.
vector of R. Find the perpendicular distance
* +
of the plane from the origin [2.971 units]
(b) Find the Cartesian equation of the plane
through the point P(1, 0 -2) and
Q(3, -1, 1) and parallel to the line with a
vector equation
r = 2i ++ (2α – 1)j + (5 – α)k
[-5x + 2y + 4z + 13 = 0]
41. Find the equation of the line through point
(2, 3) and perpendicular to line x + 2y + 5 = 0
[y = 2x – 1]
42. Show that the points A, B and C with
position vectors 3i + 3j + k, 8i + 7j + 4k and
11i + 4j + 5k respectively are vertices of a
triangle.
43. (a) Find the angle between the lines
and [8.530]
(b) Find in vector form the equation of the
line of intersection of two planes
2x + 3y – 2 =4 and x – y + 2z = 5

( , ( +

( , ( +

( , ( +
[ ] Thank you
44. A line passes through the point A(4, 6, 3) and
B(1, 3, 3). Dr. Bbosa Science

45digitalteachers.co.ug