Chapter 10

Vector Algebra
Important Results
1. (i) Vector A directed line segment is called a vector.
A vector has a magnitude and direction.
Initial Terminal
point point
Anynumber is called a scalar.
$ $ $
If a = a i + b j + ck, then | a | = a + b + c
2 2 2

(ii) Unit vector A vector with unit length along any vector a is
called a unit vector in the direction of a and it is denoted by
a$ .
a
Thus, a$ = ⋅
|a|
(iii) Collinear vector Two or more non-zero vectors are said to
be collinear, if they are parallel to the same line. Two
vectors a and b are collinear if a = λ b for some scalar λ.
(iv) Coplanar vector Three or more non-zero vectors are said
to be coplanar, if they lie in the same plane.
(v) Linearly independent vectors Vectors a, b, c are said to be
linearly independent, if there exists x, y, z such that
xa + yb + zc = 0 ⇒ x = 0, y = 0 and z = 0
(vi) Linearly dependent vectors Vectors a, b, c are said to be
linearly dependent, if there exist scalars x, y, z not all zero
such that xa + yb + zc = 0.
Three or more coplanar vectors are always linearly
dependent.
2. Addition of vectors If OA = a and AB = b, then
a + b = OA + AB = OB
B

O a A
3. (i) Position vector of a point Let O be the origin and
OA = a, we say that the position vector of A is a.
AB = (Position vector of B)—(Position vector of A)
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(ii) Section formula Let A and B be two points with position

vectors a and b respectively and let P be a point which
divides AB in the ratio m : n. Then, position vector of
mb + na
P=
m+ n
(iii) Component of a vector If a = a1i$ + a2$j + a3k$ , we say that
the components of a along X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are
a1, a2, a3 respectively.
4. Dot product or Scalar product
(i) If θ is the angle between a and b, then a ⋅ b = | a | | b | cos θ
(ii) [θ is acute ⇔ a ⋅ b > 0] and [θ is obtuse ⇔ a ⋅ b < 0]
(iii) a ⊥ b ⇔ a ⋅ b = 0
(iv) $i ⋅ $i + $j ⋅ $j + k$ ⋅ k$ = 1 and $i ⋅ $j = $j ⋅ k$ = k$ ⋅ $i = 0
 a ⋅ b
(v) Vector projection of a on b =   b
 | b |2 
(vi) If a force F displaces a particle from a point A to a point B,
then work done by the force = F ⋅ AB
(vii) a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a
(viii) a ⋅ (b + c) = a ⋅ b + a ⋅ c
(ix) a ⋅ a = | a |2 = a2, where a represents magnitude of vector a.
(x) (a + b) ⋅ (a − b) = a2 − b 2, where a and b represent the
magnitude of vectors a and b.
5. Cross product or Vector product
(i) If θ is the angle between the vectors a and b, then
a × b = | a| | b | sin θ n$ , where, n$ is a unit vector perpendicular
to the plane of a and b.
(ii) A unit vector perpendicular to both a and b is given by
(a × b)
n$ = ⋅
|a × b|
(iii) Area of a parallelogram with sides a and b = | a × b|
1
(iv) Area of a parallelogram with diagonals a and b = | a × b|
2
1
(v) Area of a quadrilateral ABCD = (AC × BD)
2
1
(vi) Area of a ∆ ABC = | AB × AC |
2 Negative
(vii) a | | b ⇔ a × b = 0
(viii) If a = a1i$ + a2$j + a3k$ and b = b1 i$ + b2$j + b3k$ , then
k
$i $j k$ j

a × b = a1 a2 a3
b1 b2 b3 i
Positive
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 583

(ix) a×b=−b×a
(x) a × (b + c) = a × b + a × c
(xi) a×a=0
(xii) $i × $j = k$ , $j × k$ = $i, k$ × i$ = $j and $j × $i = − k$ , k$ × $j = − i$, $i × k$ = − $j

(xiii) i$ × i$ = 0, $j × $j = 0, k$ × k$ = 0
(xiv) The vector moment of torque M of a force F acting at a point
A about the point P is given by, M = PA × F.

Exercise 10.1
Question 1. Represent graphically a displacement of 40 km, 30° east of
north. N
P

Solution The displacement is 30° east of

km
30°
north so, we have to draw a straight line

40
making 30° with north. W E
Here, vector OP represents the displacement O
of 40 km, 30° east of north.

S
Question 2. Classify the following measures as scalars and vectors :
(i) 10 kg (ii) 2 m north-west (iii) 40°
(iv) 40 W (v) 10 −19 C (vi) 20 m/s 2
Solution
(i) Scalar Here the unit involved is ’kg‘ which is the unit of mass and
we know that mass is scalar so, 10 kg will also be a scalar.
(ii) Vector 2 m north-west is a vector quantity as it involves both
magnitude (2 m) as well as direction (north-west).
(iii) Scalar 40° represents an angle and we know that angle is a scalar
quantity as it involves only magnitude.
(iv) Scalar Here the unit involved is watt which is the unit of power
which is a scalar quantity. So, 40 W is a scalar quantity as it involves
only magnitude.
(v) Scalar 10−19 C is a scalar quantity as it involves only magnitude.
(vi) Vector Here the unit involved is m/s 2 which is the unit
of acceleration and acceleration is a vector quantity. So, 20 m/s 2
is a vector quantity as it involves magnitude as well as direction.
Question 3. Classify the following as scalar and vector quantities:
(i) Time period (ii) Distance (iii) Force
(iv) Velocity (v) Work done
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Solution
(i) Scalar Time period is a scalar quantity as it involves only
magnitude.
(ii) Scalar Distance is a scalar quantity as it involves only magnitude.
(iii) Vector Force is a vector quantity as it involves both magnitude as
well as direction.
(iv) Vector Velocity is a vector quantity as it involves both magnitude
as well as direction.
(v) Scalar Work done is a scalar quantity as it involves only
magnitude.
Question 4. In figure (a square), identify the following a
vectors : d b
(i) Coinitial (ii) Equal (iii) Collinear but not equal.
c
Solution
(i) Vectors a and d are coinitial because they have the same initial
point.
(ii) Vectors b and d are equal because they have the same magnitude
and direction.
(iii) Vectors a and c are collinear but not equal. Although they are
parallel, this is because their directions are not same.
Question 5. Answer the following as true or false :
(i) a and −a are collinear.
(ii) Two collinear vectors are always equal in magnitude.
(iii) Two vectors having same magnitude are collinear.
(iv) Two collinear vectors having the same magnitude are equal.
Solution
(i) True Vectors a and −a are parallel to the same line and hence
collinear.
(ii) False Collinear vectors are those vectors that are parallel to the
same line but they need not to be equal in magnitude.
(iii) False It is not necessary for two vectors having the same
magnitude to be parallel to the same line.
(iv) False Two vectors are said to be equal, if they have the same
magnitude and direction, regardless or the position of their initial
points. Hence, two collinear vectors having the same magnitude
need not be equal.

Exercise 10.2
Question 1. Compute the magnitude of the following vectors :
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 1 ^ 1 ^ 1 ^
a = i + j + k;b = 2 i −7 j − 3k;c = i+ j− k.
3 3 3
The magnitude for a vector a = x $i + y $j + zk$ is given by|A|= x 2 + y 2 + z 2
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 585

Solution Given, vector a = $i + $j + k$ . Comparing with a = x $i + y$j + zk$

we get x = 1, y = 1, z = 1.
The magnitude of given vector is
| a| = $i + $j + k$ = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = 12 + 12 + 12 = 3
Similarly magnitude of b = | b| = |2$i − 7$j − 3k$ | = 22 + (−7)2 + (−3)2
= 4 + 49 + 9 = 62
1 $ 1 $ 1 $
and | c| = i+ j− k
3 3 3
2 2 2
 1  1  1 1 1 1
=   +  + −  = + + =1
 3  3  3 3 3 3
Question 2. Write two differential vectors having same magnitude.
Solution Two vectors can have same magnitude, if the sum of the
squares of coefficient of $i , $j and k$ is same. Let vectors a = (2i$ + 3$j + k$ )
and b = (2i$ + 3$j − k$ ) are different vectors having the same magnitude.
Magnitude of Ist vector = (2)2 + (3)2 + (1)2 = 4 + 9 + 1 = 14
and magnitude of IInd vector = (2)2 + (1)2 + (−3)2 = 4 + 1 + 9 = 14
i. e., they have same magnitude.
Note Here, infinite number of answers are possible.
Question 3. Write two different vectors having same direction.
Two vectors can have the same directions, if their direction cosines
(l, m, n) are same. Direction cosines for a vector A=xi$ + y$j + zk$ are
x y z
given by l = , m= , n=
x + y +z
2 2 2
x + y +z
2 2 2
x + y2 + z2
2

Solution Let a = (i$ + $j + k$ ) and b = (2i$ + 2$j + 2k$ ).

For Ist vector a = $i + $j + k$
Comparing with A = x $i + y $j + z k$ , we get x = 1, y = 1, z = 1
The direction cosines of a are given by
1 1 1 1 1 1
l= = ,m = = and n = =
1 +1 +1
2 2 2 3 1 +1 +1
2 2 2 3 1 +1 +1
2 2 2 3
Similarly, the direction cosines of b are given by
2 2 1 2 2 1
l= = = , m= = =
2 +2 +2
2 2 2 2 3 3 2 +2 +2
2 2 2 2 3 3
2 2 1
and n = = =
22 + 22 + 22 2 3 3
Here, we see that both have same direction cosines.
Note Here, infinite number of answers are possible.
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Question 4. Find the value of x and y so that the vectors 2 ^i + 3 ^j and

^ ^
x i + y j are equal.
Two vectors are equal, if both have the same coefficients of i$, $j and k$
along with the sign.
Solution Let a = 2$i + 3$j and b = x$i + y$j be two given vectors.
Comparing coefficients of $i and $j of both a and b, we have
⇒ x = 2 and y = 3
Question 5. Find the scalar and vector components of the vector with
initial point ( 2, 1) and terminal point ( − 5, 7).
A vector with initial point ( x1, y1 ) and final point ( x 2, y2 ) is given
( x 2 − x1 ) $i + ( y2 − y1 ) $j.
Solution Vector with initial point A (2, 1) and final (terminal) point
B(− 5, 7) can be given by
AB = (x − x )$i + (y − y ) $j = (−5 − 2)$i + (7 − 1)$j = (− 7)$i + 6$j
2 1 2 1

Hence, the required scalar components (coefficients of $i and $j) are − 7 and
6 while the vector components are −7$i and 6$j.
^ ^ ^
Question 6. Find the sum of the vectors a = i − 2 j + k,
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
b = − 2 i + 4 j + 5 k and c = i − 6 j − 7 k .
To find the sum of different vectors, different components ( i$, $j and k$ ) are
added separately.
Solution Here, given a = $i − 2$j + k$ , b = − 2$i + 4$j + 5k$ , c = i$ − 6$j − 7k$
Sum of these vectors can be calculated by adding their $i , $j and k$
components.
∴ a + b + c = (i$ − 2$j + k$ ) + (−2i$ + 4$j + 5k$ ) + ($i − 6$j − 7 k$ )
= (i$ − 2i$ + i$) + (−2$j + 4j$ − 6j$) + (k$ + 5k$ − 7k$ )
= 0$i − 4$j − k$ = − 4$j − k$
Question 7. Find the unit vector in the direction of the vector
^ ^ ^
a = i + j + 2 k.
Unit vector in the direction of given vector can be calculated by formula
a
a$ = where,|a|= magnitude of given vector a.
| a|
Solution Given, a = $i + $j + 2 k$ comparing with x = a i$ + b $j + c k$ , we get
a = 1, b = 1, c = 2
Magnitude of vector a = | a| = a2 + b 2 + c 2 = 12 + 12 + 22 = 6
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 587

∴ The unit vector a in the direction of vector a = $i + $j + 2 k$ is given by

^

a 1 $ $ 1 $ 1 $ 2 $
a$ = = (i + j + 2 k$ ) = i+ j+ k
|a| 6 6 6 6
Question 8. Find the unit vector in the direction of vector PQ, where P
and Q are the points (1, 2, 3) and (4, 5, 6), respectively.
In the question we are not given the vector, so first of all vector is to be
calculated and then find the unit vector in the direction of given vector as
in previous question.
A vector with initial point ( x1, y1, z1 ) and terminal point ( x 2, y2, z2 ) is given by
( x − x ) $i + ( y − y ) $j + ( z + z ) k$
2 1 2 1 2 1
Solution The given points are P(1, 2, 3) and Q(4, 5, 6).
∴ x1 = 1, y1 = 2, z1 = 3 and x 2 = 4, y 2 = 5, z2 = 6
So vector PQ = (x 2 − x1)$i + (y 2 − y1) $j + (z2 − z1)k$
= (4 − 1)$i + (5 − 2)$j + (6 − 3)k$ = 3$i + 3$j + 3k$
Comparing with X = x $i + y $j + z k,
$ we get x = 3, y = 3, z = 3
∴ Magnitude of given vector
| PQ| = 32 + 32 + 32 = 9 + 9 + 9 = 27 = 3 3
Hence, the unit vector in the direction of PQ,
PQ 3$i + 3$j + 3k$ 3 $ $ $ 1 $ 1 $ 1 $
= = (i + j + k) = i+ j+ k.
| PQ| 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Question 9. For given vectors, a = 2 ^i − ^j + 2 ^ ^ ^ ^

k and b = − i + j − k, find
the unit vector in the direction of the vector a + b .
a +b
Firstly determine a + b and then, unit vector =
|a + b|
Solution The given vectors are a = 2$i − $j + 2k$ and b = − $i + $j − k$
∴ a + b = (2i$ − $j + 2k$ ) + (− i$ + $j − k$ )
Two vectors can be added by adding $i , $j and k$ components.
∴ a + b = [2i$ + (− $i)] + [(− $j) + $j] + [(2k$ ) + (− k$ )]
= (2$i − $i) + (− $j + $j) + (2k$ − k$ ) = $i + 0$j + k$ = $i + k$
Comparing with X = xi$ + y$j + zk$ , we get x = 1, y = 0, z = 1
∴ Magnitude | a + b| = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = 12 + 02 + 12 = 2
Hence, the unit vector in the direction of (a + b),
(a + b) ($i + k$ ) 1 $ 1 $
= = i+ k
| a + b| 2 2 2
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Question 10. Find a vector in the direction of vector 5 $i − $j + 2 k$ which

has magnitude 8 unit.
To find a vector in the direction of given vector, first of all we have to find
unit vector in the direction of given vector.
Solution Let a = 5i$ − $j + 2k$
Comparing with X = x $i + y $j + z k$ , we get x = 5, y = − 1 , z = 2
∴ Magnitude | a| = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = 52 + (−1)2 + 22 = 25 + 1 + 4 = 30
∴ Unit vector in the direction of given vector
a 5$i − $j + 2k$
a$ = =
| a| 30
Hence, the vector in the direction of vector 5$i − $j + 2k$ which has
magnitude 8 units is given by (multiplying the unit vector by 8, we have
the vector with magnitude 8 as the magnitude of unit vector is 1).
 5$i − $j + 2k$  40 $ 8 $ 16 $
8a$ = 8   = i− j+ k
 30  30 30 30

Question 11. Show that the vectors 2 ^i − 3 ^j + 4 ^ ^ ^ ^

k and − 4 i + 6 j − 8 k
are collinear.
To prove the given two vectors a , b to be collinear, we have to prove a = λb
where λ is a numerical value.

Solution Let a = 2$i − 3$j + 4k$ and b = − 4$i + 6$j − 8k$

It is observed that b = − 4$i + 6$j − 8k$ = − 2 (2$i − 3$j + 4k$ ) = − 2a
∴ b = λa, where λ = − 2
Vectors a and b have the same direction, therefore they are collinear.

Question 12. Find the direction of the vector ^i + 2 ^j + 3 ^

k.
To find the direction of a given vector, we have to find the unit vector in
the direction of given vector.
Solution Let a = $i + 2$j + 3k$
Then, | a| = 12 + 22 + 32 = 14
a 1 $
∴ a$ = ⇒ a$ = (i + 2$j + 3k$ )
| a| 14
1 $ 2 $ 3 $
⇒ a$ = i+ j+ k
14 14 40
1 2 3
Hence, direction cosines of the given vector are , , ⋅
14 14 14
(QDirection cosines are the coefficients of i$, $j, k$ of unit vector.
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 589

Question 13. Find the direction cosines of the vector joining the points
A (1, 2, −3) and B ( −1, − 2, 1), directed from A to B.
Solution The given points are A (1, 2, − 3) and B(−1, − 2, 1).
i.e., x1 = 1, y1 = 2, z1 = − 3 and x 2 = − 1, y 2 = − 2, z2 = 1
Vector AB = (x 2 − x1)$i + (y 2 − y1)$j + (z2 − z1) k$
= (−1 − 1)$i + (−2 − 2)$j + [1 − (−3)]k$ = − 2$i − 4$j + 4k$
Comparing with X = x $i + y $j + zk$ , we get x = − 2, y = − 4, z = 4
Now, magnitude
| AB | = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = (−2)2 + (−4)2 + 42 = 4 + 16 + 16 = 36 = 6
x y z
Direction cosines of a vector X = x$i + y$j + zk$ are ,
|X||X| |X|
−2 −4 4 1 2 2
∴Direction cosines of AB are , , or − , − , .
6 6 6 3 3 3

Question 14. Show that the vector ^i + ^j + ^

k is equally inclined to the
axes OX, OY and OZ.
To show that a vector is equally inclined with all the axes X, Y and Z or
with OX, OY and OZ, we have to prove that direction cosines are equal.
Solution Let a = $i + $j + k$
Then, magnitude of vector a = | a | = 12 + 12 + 12 = 3
x y z 1 1 1
Therefore, the direction cosines of a are , , i.e., , , ⋅
| a| | a| | a| 3 3 3
If a makes angles α , β and γ respectively with (positive) OX,OY and OZ.
Then, we have cos α = 1/ 3
(Q Direction cosines are the cosines of the angles made by $i, $j, k$
components of the vector with X, Y and Z axes)
1 1  1
cos β = and cos γ = , α = β = γ = cos −1  
3 3  3
Hence, the given vector a is equally inclined with OX, OY and OZ.
Question 15. Find the position vector of a point R which divides the line
^ ^ ^
joining two points P and Q whose position vectors are i + 2 j − k and
^ ^ ^
− i + j + k respectively, in the ratio 2 : 1
(i) internally, (ii) externally.
mb + na
Use formula for internal division and use formula for external
m+ n
mb − na
division .
m−n
where, m and n are the given ratio.
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Solution The position vector of a point R divided the line segment

joining two points P and Q in the ratio m : n is given by
mb + na
Case I Internally =
m+ n
mb − na
Case II Externally =
m−n
Position vectors of P and Q are given as
OP = $i + 2$j − k$ and OQ = − i$ + $j + k$
(i) PV of R [dividing (PQ) in the ratio m : n internally]
m(PV of Q) + n (PV of P)
=
m+ n
2(PV of Q) + 1(PV of P)
Here m = 2, n = 1 =
2+1
1
= {2(− i + $j + k$ ) + 1($i + 2$j − k$ )}
$
3
1 $  1  4  1
= (− i + 4$j + k$ ) =  −  $i +   $j +   k$
3  3  3  3
(ii) PV of R [dividing (PQ) in the ratio 2 : 1 externally]
m(PV Of Q) − n (PV of P)
= , here m = 2, n = 1
m+ n
2(PV of Q) − 1(PV of P)
=
2 −1
= 2 (− i$ + $j + k$ ) + (−1) (i$ + 2$j − k$ ) = (−3) $i + 0$j + 3k$ = − 3$i + 3k$
Question 16. Find the position vector of the mid-point of the vector
joining points P( 2, 3, 4) and Q(4, 1, − 2) .
Solution The position vector of mid-point of the vector joining the
points P(2, 3, 4) and Q(4, 1, − 2) is given by
1
PV of the mid-point of (PQ) = (PV of P + PV of Q)
2
1 1
= [(2i$ + 3$j + 4k$ ) + (4i$ + $j − 2k$ )] = (6$i + 4$j + 2k$ ) = 3$i + 2$j + 1k$
2 2
Question 17. Show that the points A, B and C with position vectors,
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
a = 3 i − 4 j − 4 k, b = 2 i − j + k and c = i − 3 j − 5 k respectively, form the
vertices of a right angled triangle.
If three points A, B, C form a right angle triangle, then
|AB|2 + |CA|2 = |BC|2.
Solution Position vectors of points A, B and C are respectively given as
a = 3$i − 4$j − 4k$ , b = 2$i − $j + k$ and c = i$ − 3$j − 5k$
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 591

Now, AB = b − a = (PV of B − PV of A)
⇒ b − a = [(2$i − $j + k$ ) − (3$i − 4$j − 4k$ )] = − $i + 3$j + 5k$
Comparing with X = x$i + y$j + zk$ , we get
x = − 1, y = 3, z = 5
Magnitude of AB, | AB| = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = (−1)2 + (3)2 + (5)2
= 1 + 9 + 25 = 35
∴ | AB |2 = 35
Similarly, BC = c − b = (PV of C − PV of B)
⇒ c − b = ($i − 3$j − 5k$ ) − (2i$ − $j + k$ ) = − $i − 2$j − 6k$
Similarly, | BC| = (−1)2 + (−2)2 + (− 6)2 ⇒ | BC|2 = 41
and CA = a − c = (PV of A − PV of C)
⇒ a − c = (3$i − 4$j − 4k$ ) − (i$ − 3$j − 5k$ ) = 2$i − $j + k$
| CA| = (2)2 + (−1)2 + (1)2 = 4 + 1 + 1 = 6 ⇒ | CA|2 = 6
Now, we find | AB| + | CA|2 = 35 + 6 = 41 = | BC|2
2

Therefore, ∆ ABC is a right angled triangle with right angle at A.

Question 18. In triangle ABC, which of the following is not true :
(a) AB + BC + CA = 0
C
(b) AB + BC − AC = 0
(c) AB + BC − CA = 0
(d) AB − CB + CA = 0
Solution (c) By triangle law of vector addition, A B
AB + BC = AC or AB + BC = − CA
Hence, the equation given in alternative (c) is incorrect.
Question 19. If a and b are two collinear vectors, then which of the
following are incorrect :
(a) b = λa, for some scalar λ
(b) a$ = ± b$
(c) The respective components of a and b are proportional.
(d) Both the vectors a and b have same direction but different
magnitudes.
Solution Considering each option : Option (a) b = λ a is correct, it is the
condition for collinearity of two vectors.
Option (b) a$ = ± b$ is also correct, it shows that unit vectors in the
direction of given vectors are either in the same direction or in opposite
direction i.e., they are collinear.
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Option (c) is also incorrect, if for two vectors the respective components
are proportional, then their magnitude will be different but they will be
collinear.
Option (d) is incorrect, because if the two vectors are collinear then they
may have same directions or opposite directions, in both the areas they
will be collinear.

Exercise 10.3
Question 1. Find the angle between two vectors a and b with
magnitudes 3 and 2 respectively, having a ⋅ b = 6 .
To determine the angle between a and b, we can use the formula
a⋅ b
cos θ =
| a||b|
Solution It is given that | a| = 3, | b| = 2 and a ⋅ b = 6
Let θ be the required angle, then
a⋅b 6 1  1  π π
cos θ = = = ⇒ θ = cos −1   = cos −1 cos  =
| a| | b| 3 ×2 2  2  4 4
Hence, the angle between the given vectors a and b is π /4 ⋅

Question 2. Find the angle between the vectors ^i − 2 ^j + 3 ^

k and
^ ^ ^
3 i − 2 j + k.
a .b
The angle between the two vectors a and b is given by cos θ = . Here
|a||b|
we are not given a ⋅ b (dot product) and magnitude ( a ) and ( b), so first of
all we have to find these required factors.
Solution Let a = $i − 2$j + 3k$ and b = 3$i − 2$j + k$
Magnitude of a,| a| = 12 + (−2)2 + 32 = 1 + 4 + 9 = 14
Magnitude of b, | b| = 32 + (−2)2 + 12 = 9 + 4 + 1 = 14
Now, a ⋅ b = (i$ − 2$j + 3k$ ) ⋅ (3i$ − 2$j + k$ )
= 1⋅ 3 + (− 2) ⋅ (−2) + 3 ⋅ 1 = 3 + 4 + 3 = 10
(Dot product of two vectors is equal to the sum of the products of
their corresponding components.)
Let θ be the required angle between a and b, then
a⋅b 10 10 5  5
cos θ = = = = ⇒ θ = cos −1  
| a| | b| 14 14 14 7  7

Question 3. Find the projection of the vector ^i − ^j on the vector ^i + ^j .

a⋅ b
Use formula for projection of a on b =
| b|
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 593

Solution Let a = $i − $j, b = $i + $j

a ⋅ b ($i − $j) ⋅ ($i + $j ) 1 × 1 + (− 1) × 1
Projection of a on b is given by, = = =0
| b| 12 + 12 2
Hence, the projection of vector a on b is 0.

Question 4. Find the projection of the vector ^i + 3 ^j + 7 ^

k on the vector
^ ^ ^
7 i − j + 8 k.
Solution Let a = $i + 3$j + 7k$ and b = 7$i − $j + 8k$ , then projection of a is
given by
a ⋅ b  ($i + 3$j + 7k$ ) ⋅ (7i$ − $j + 8k$ )
=
| b|  72 + (−1)2 + 82 

 1 × 7 + 3 × (−1) + 7 × 8 7 − 3 + 56 60
= = =
 ( 49 + 1 + 64)2  114 144
60
Hence, the projection of vector ($i + 3$j + 7k$ ) on (7i$ − $j + 8k$ ) is ⋅
144
Question 5. Show that each of the given three vectors is a unit vector :
1 ^ ^ ^ 1 ^ ^ ^ 1 ^ ^ ^
( 2 i + 3 j + 6 k), ( 3 i − 6 j + 2 k), ( 6 i + 2 j − 3 k). Also, show that they
7 7 7
are mutually perpendicular to each other.
To prove a vector, a unit vector we have to prove that its magnitude is unit
i.e., 1. Two vectors a and b are perpendicular, if a ⋅ b = 0
1 2 3 6
Solution Let a = (2i$ + 3$j + 6k$ ) = $i + $j + k$
7 7 7 7
1 $ 3 6 2
b= (3i − 6$j + 2k$ ) = i$ − $j + k$
7 7 7 7
1 $ $ $ 6$ 2$ 3 $
and c = (6i + 2 j − 3k) = i + j − k
7 7 7 7
2 2 2
 2  3  6 49
Then, magnitude of a, | a| =   +   +   = =1
 7  7  7 49
2 2 2
 3  − 6  2 49
magnitude of b, | b| =   +   +   = =1
 7  7  7 49
2 2 2
 6  2  − 3 49
and magnitude of c, | c| =   +   +   = =1
 7  7  7 49
Thus, each of the given three vectors is a unit vector.
Now,
2 3 6  3 6 2 
a ⋅ b =  $i + $j + k$   $i − $j + k$ 
7 7 7   7 7 7 
594 www.arihantbooks.com

2 3 3  − 6 6 2
= × + ×  + ×
7 7 7  7 7 7
6 18 12 6 − 18 + 12 0
= − + = = =0
49 49 49 49 49
i.e., a and b are perpendicular to each other.
3 6 2  6 2 3 
b ⋅ c =  $i − $j + k$   $i + $j − k$ 
7 7 7  7 7 7 
3 6  − 6  2 2  −3 
= × +  × + × 
7 7  7 7 7  7
18 12 6 18 − 12 − 6 0
= − − = = =0
49 49 49 49 49
i.e., b and c are perpendicular to each other.
6 2 3  2 3 6 
c ⋅ a =  $i + $j − k$   $i + $j + k$ 
7 7 7  7 7 7 
6 2 2 3  −3  6
= × + × +  ×
7 7 7 7  7 7
12 6 18 12 + 6 − 18 0
= + − = = =0
49 49 49 49 49
i.e., c and a are perpendicular to each other.
Hence, the given three vectors are mutually perpendicular to each other.
Question 6. Find |a|and |b |, if ( a + b) ⋅ ( a − b) = 8 and |a| = 8 |b|.
Solution Given, (a + b) ⋅ (a − b) = 8 and | a| = 8 | b|
⇒ a ⋅a − a ⋅b + b⋅a − b⋅b = 8
⇒ | a|2 − | b|2 = 8 (Q a ⋅ a = | a|2 and a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a)
⇒ (8 | b| )2 − | b|2 = 8 ⇒ 63 | b|2 = 8 (Given, | a| = 8 | b | )
→ 8 2 2
⇒ | b| = =
63 3 7
 2 2  16 2
Also, | a| = 8 | b| = 8   = ⋅
 3 7 3 7
Question 7. Evaluate the product ( 3 a − 5 b) ⋅ ( 2 a + 7 b).
To find the product, use a⋅ a =|a|2, b ⋅ b =| b|2 and a⋅ b = b⋅ a.

Solution We have, (3a − 5b) ⋅ (2 a + 7 b)

= (3a) ⋅ (2a + 7b) − (5b) ⋅ (2a + 7b)
= 6 (a ⋅ a) + 21(a ⋅ b) − 10 (b ⋅ a) − 35 (b ⋅ b)
= 6 | a|2 + 11(a ⋅ b) − 35 | b|2 (Q a ⋅ a = | a|2 and a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a)
Question 8. Find the magnitude of two vectors a and b having the same
magnitude and such that the angle between them is 60° and their scalar
product is 1/2
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 595

Solution Both vectors have same magnitude i.e., | a| = | b| and

1
scalar product of vectors, a ⋅ b = (Given)
2
Let θ be the angle between two vectors a and b, then
1
a⋅b 2
cos θ = ⇒cos 60° = [Q | a| = | b| ]
| a| | b | | a| | a|
1 1
⇒ = ⇒ | a|2 = 1 ⇒ | a| = 1
2 2 | a|2
Thus, | a| = | b| = 1
Question 9. Find |x|, if for a unit vector a, ( x − a) ⋅ ( x + a) = 12 .
Solution Given, | a| = 1
(QIt is a unit vector, magnitude of a unit vector is 1.)
and (x − a) . (x + a) = 12
⇒ x ⋅ x + x ⋅ a − a ⋅ x − a ⋅ a = 12 (Q a ⋅ a = | a|2 and a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a)
⇒ | x|2 − | a |2 = 12 ⇒ | x|2 − 12 = 12 [Q | a| = 1 as a is a unit vector]
⇒ | x|2 = 13 ⇒ | x | = 13

Question 10. If a = 2 ^i + 2 ^j + 3 ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
k, b = − i + 2 j + k and c = 3 i + j such
that a + λb is perpendicular to c, then find the value of λ.
Solution The given vectors are a = 2$i + 2$j + 3k$ , b = − $i + 2$j + k$ and
c = 3$i + $j.
Now, (a + λb) ⊥ c (Given)
⇒ (a + λb) ⋅ c = 0
(Qscalar product of two perpendicular vectors is zero)
⇒ [(2i$ + 2$j + 3k$ ) + λ (− i$ + 2$j + k$ )] ⋅ (3i$ + $j) = 0
⇒ [(2 − λ )$i + (2 + 2λ )$j + (3 + λ )k$ ] ⋅ (3$i + $j) = 0
⇒ (2 − λ ) 3 + (2 + 2λ ) 1 + (3 + λ ) 0 = 0
⇒ 6 − 3λ + 2 + 2λ = 0 ⇒ 8 − λ = 0 ⇒ λ = 8.
Hence, the required value of λ is 8.
Question 11. Show that |a| b + |b| a is perpendicular to |a| b − |b| a for
any two non-zero vectors a and b.
Solution Let p = | a| b + | b| a and q = | a| b − | b| a
Then, p ⋅ q = (| a| b + | b| a) . (| a | b − | b | a)
= | a|2 (b ⋅ b) − | a| | b| (b ⋅ a) + | b| | a| (a ⋅ b) − | b|2 (a ⋅ a)
= | a|2 | b |2 − | a | | b| (a ⋅ b) + | a| | b| (a ⋅ b) − | b|2 | a|2 = 0
⇒ p ⊥q (QIf c ⋅ d = 0 ⇒ c is perpendicular to d)
Hence, | a| b + | b| a and | a| b − | b| a are perpendicular to each other for
any two non-zero vectors a and b.
596 www.arihantbooks.com

Question 12. If a ⋅ a = 0 and a ⋅ b = 0, then what can be conclude about

the vector b?
Solution It is given that a ⋅ a = 0 or | a|2 = 0 ⇒ | a| = 0 ⇒ a = 0 i.e., a is a
zero vector because dot become its magnitude is zero.
Hence, a ⋅ b = 0 whatever b may (Q a = 0). This means that nothing can be
concluded about b it can be any vector.
Question 13. If a, b, c are unit vectors such that a + b + c = 0, then find
the value of a ⋅ b + b ⋅ c + c ⋅ a.
As a, b and c are unit vectors, so use |a| = |b| = |c| = 1 and expand
( a + b + c) ⋅ ( a + b + c) to get the value of a⋅ b + b⋅ c + c⋅ a.
Solution Given, | a| = | b| = | c| = 1 and a + b + c = 0
We have (a + b + c) ⋅ (a + b + c) = 0
⇒ a ⋅ (a + b + c) + b ⋅ (a + b + c) + c ⋅ (a + b + c) = 0
⇒ a ⋅ a + a ⋅ b + a ⋅ c + b ⋅ a + b ⋅ b + b. c + c ⋅ a + c ⋅ b + c ⋅ c = 0
⇒ | a|2 + | b|2 + | c|2 + 2 (a ⋅ b + b ⋅ c + c ⋅ a) = 0
(Q a ⋅ a = | a|2 and a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a)
⇒ 1 + 1 + 1 + 2 (a ⋅ b + b ⋅ c + c ⋅ a) = 0 (Q | a| = | b| = | c| = 1)
⇒ 3 + 2 (a ⋅ b + b ⋅ c + c ⋅ a) = 0
3
⇒ a ⋅b + b⋅c + c⋅a = −
2
Question 14. If either a = 0 or b = 0, then a ⋅ b = 0 . But the converse
need not to be true. Justify your answer with an example.
Solution If a = 0 = 0$i + 0$j + 0k$ and b is non-zero i.e., b = x$i + y$j + zk$
∴ a ⋅ b = (0i$ + 0$j + 0k$ )(xi$ + y$j + zk$ ) = (0 × x) + (0 × y) + (0 × z) = 0
So, if a = 0 or b = 0, then for same a ⋅ b = 0
To prove that convers need not to be we have to prove that for two
non-zero vectors a and b, a ⋅ b can be zero.
Let a = 2i$ + 4$j + 3k$ and b = 3$i + 3$j − 6k$
Then, a ⋅ b = 2 ⋅ 3 + 4 ⋅ 3 + 3 ⋅ (−6) = 6 + 12 − 18 = 0
We now observe that | a| = 22 + 42 + 32 = 29. ∴ a ≠ 0
| b| = 32 + 32 + (− 6)2 = 54
∴ b ≠0
Hence, the converse of the given statement need not be true.
Question 15. If the vertices A, B, C of a triangle ABC have position
vectors (1, 2, 3), ( −1, 0, 0), ( 0, 1, 2) respectively then find ∠ ABC (∠ ABC is
the angle between the vectors BA and BC).
Here, we have to find ∠ABC i.e., angle between BA and BC, so first of all
we have to calculate both these vectors after that we can find the angle
( BA ) ⋅( BC )
between them by cos θ =
|BA||BC|
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 597

Solution We are given the points A(1, 2, 3), B(−1, 0, 0) and C(0, 1, 2).
Also, it is given that ∠ ABC is the angle between the vectors BA and BC .
Here, BA = PV of A − PV of B = ($i + 2$j + 3k$ ) − (− $i + 0$j + 0k$ )
= [$i − (− $i) + (2$j − 0) + (3k$ − 0)] = 2$i + 2$j + 3k$
| BA| = (2)2 + (2)2 + (3)2 = 4 + 4 + 9 = 17
BC = PV of C − PV of B
= (0i$ + 1$j + 2k$ ) − (− i$ + 0$j + 0k$ ) = [0 − ( − $i) + (1$j − 0) + (2k$ − 0)]
= $i + $j + 2k$
| BC| = (1)2 + (1)2 + (2)2 = 1 + 1 + 4 = 6
Now, BA ⋅ BC = (2$i + 2$j + 3k$ ) ⋅ ($i + $j + 2k$ ) = 2 × 1 + 2 × 1 + 3 × 2 = 10
BA ⋅ BC 10  10 
cos θ = ⇒ cos (∠ ABC) = ⇒ ∠ ABC = cos −1  
| BA| | BC| 17 6  102 

Question 16. Show that the points A(1, 2, 7), B( 2, 6, 3) and C( 3, 10, −1)
are collinear.
For collinear, prove that|AC| = |AB | + |BC|

Solution The given points are A(1, 2, 7), B (2, 6, 3) and C(3, 10, − 1).
∴ AB = PV of B − PV of A = (2i$ + 6$j + 3k$ ) − (1i$ + 2$j + 7k$ )
= (2 − 1)$i + (6 − 2)$j + (3 − 7)k$ = $i + 4$j − 4k$
Magnitude of AB, | AB| = (1)2 + (4)2 + (−4)2 = 1 + 16 + 16 = 33
BC = PV of C − PV of B = (3i$ + 10$j − 1k$ ) − (2i$ + 6$j + 3k$ )
= (3 − 2)$i + (10 − 6)$j + (−1 − 3)k$ = $i + 4$j − 4k$
Magnitude of BC, | BC| = (1)2 + (4)2 + (−4)2 = 1 + 16 + 16 = 33
AC = PV of C − PV of A = (3$i + 10$j − 1k$ ) − (1$i + 2$j + 7k$ )
= (3 − 1)$i + (10 − 2)$j + (−1 − 7)k$ = 2i$ + 8$j − 8k$
Magnitude of AC, | AC| = 22 + 82 + (−8)2 = 4 + 64 + 64 = 132 = 2 33
= 33 + 33
∴ | AC| = | AB| + | BC|. Hence, the given points A, B and C are collinear.

Question 17. Show that the vectors 2 ^i − ^j + ^ ^ ^ ^

k, i − 3 j − 5 k and
^ ^ ^
3 i − 4 j − 4 k form the vertices of a right angled triangle.
To prove a triangle right angled triangle, we have to prove that the sum of
squares of two sides is equal to the square of the third side.
598 www.arihantbooks.com

Solution Let A = 2$i − $j + k,

$ B = $i − 3$j − 5k$ and C = 3$i − 4$j − 4k$
∴ Side AB = PV of B − PV of A = (i$ − 3$j − 5k$ ) − (2i$ − $j + k$ )
= $i − 3$j − 5k$ − 2$i + $j − k$ = − $i − 2$j − 6k$
| AB| = (−1)2 + (−2)2 + (−6)2 = 1 + 4 + 36 = 41
BC = PV of C − PV of B = (3$i − 4$j − 4k$ ) − ($i − 3$j − 5k$ )
= 3$i − 4$j − 4k$ − $i + 3$j + 5k$ = 2$i − $j + k$
| BC| = 22 + (−1)2 + 12 = 4 + 1 + 1 = 6
and AC = PV of C − PV of A = (3i$ − 4$j − 4k$ ) − (2i$ − $j + k$ )
= 3i$ − 4$j − 4k$ − 2$i + $j − k$ = i$ − 3$j − 5k$
and | AC| = 12 + (−3)2 + (−5)2 = 1 + 9 + 25 = 35
Now, | BC|2 + | AC |2 = 6 + 35 = 41 = | AB|2
which shows that ABC is a right angled triangle.
Question 18. If a is a non-zero vector of magnitude a and λ is a
non-zero scalar, then λ a is unit vector if
(a) λ = 1 (b) λ = −1 (c) a = |λ| (d) a = 1/|λ|
Solution (d) Vector λ a is a unit vector, if | λ a| = 1
1
Now, | λ a| = 1 ⇒ | λ | | a| = 1⇒| λ | | a| = 1⇒| a| = [Q λ ≠ 0]
|λ |
1 →
⇒ a= [given | a| = a ]
|λ|

Exercise 10.4
Question 1. Find |a × b|, if a = ^i − 7 ^j + 7 ^ ^ ^ ^
k and b = 3 i − 2 j + 2 k .

Suppose, a = a1$i + b1^j + c1 ^

k and b = a2i$ + b2^j + c2 ^
k, then use
$i ^ ^
j k
a × b = a1 b1 c1 . We can find the value by expanding this determinant.
a2 b2 c2

Solution It is given that a = $i − 7$j + 7k$ and b = 3i$ − 2$j + 2k$

$i $j k$
∴ a × b = 1 −7 7 = (−14 + 14)$i − (2 − 21)$j + (−2 + 21)k$
3 −2 2
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 599

= 0$i + 19$j + 19k$

⇒ | a × b| = 02 + (19)2 + (19)2 = 2 × (19)2 = 19 2

Question 2. Find a unit vector perpendicular to each of the vectors

^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
a + b and a − b, where a = 3 i + 2 j + 2 k and b = i + 2 j − 2 k .
A ×B
Unit vector perpendicular to two vectors A and B is given by n$ = .
|A × B|

Then, determine a + b and a − b, then unit vector perpendicular to both

( a + b) × ( a − b)
( a + b) and ( a − b) is given by ± .
|( a + b) × ( a − b)|
Solution Given that a = 3i$ + 2$j + 2k$ and b = $i + 2$j − 2k$
∴ a + b = (3$i + 2$j + 2k$ ) + (i$ + 2$j − 2k$ ) = 4$i + 4$j + 0k$
and a − b = (3$i + 2$j + 2k$ ) − ($i + 2$j − 2k$ ) = 2$i + 4k$
i$ $j k$
Now, (a + b) × (a − b) = 4 4 0
2 0 4

= $i (16 − 0) − $j (16 − 0) + k$ (0 − 8) = 16$i − 16$j − 8k$

⇒ | (a + b) × (a − b)| = (16)2 + (−16)2 + (−8)2
= 256 + 256 + 64 = 576 = 24
∴ A unit vector, perpendicular to both (a + b) and (a − b) is
(a + b) × (a − b) 16$i − 16$j − 8k$
± =±
| (a + b) × (a − b)| 24
$ $ $
8 (2i − 2 j − 1k) 1
=± = ± (2$i − 2$j − k$ )
24 3
2$ 2$ 1$ 2 2 1
∴ Required vector is either i − j − k or − $i + $j + k$ .
3 3 3 3 3 3
π π
Question 3. If a unit vector a$ , makes angles with ^i , with ^j and an
3 4
^
acute angle θ with k, then find θ and hence the components of a .
Suppose, a vector makes angles α, β and γ with $i , $j and k$ respectively,
then use the relation cos 2 α + cos 2 β + cos 2 γ = 1.
Solution Let unit vector makes angle α, β and γ with $i, $j and k$
respectively, then
π π
α= , β = and γ = θ (Given)
3 4
600 www.arihantbooks.com

2 2
π π  1  1
∴ + cos 2 + cos 2 θ = 1 ⇒   +   + cos 2 θ = 1
cos 2
3 4  2  2
1 1 3 4−3 1
⇒ + + cos 2 θ = 1 ⇒ cos 2 θ = 1 − ⇒ cos 2 θ = =
4 2 4 4 4
1 1
⇒ cos θ = ± ⇒ cos θ = ±
4 2
1  1 
cos θ = cos θ ≠ − , Q θ is an acute angle
2 
 2 
 1  π
⇒ θ = cos −1   = cos −1 cos 
 2  3
π π π π
⇒ θ = and components of a are cos , cos , cos .
3 3 4 3
1 1 1
⇒ , , ⋅
2 2 2
Note For acute angle, cos θ > 0 and for obtuse angle cos θ < 0.
Question 4. Show that ( a − b) × ( a + b) = 2 ( a × b) .
Solution Give that (a − b) × (a + b) = 2 (a × b).
LHS = (a − b) × (a + b) = a × a + a × b − b × a − b × b
= 0 + a × b + a × b − 0 [Q a × a = 0 and a × b = − b × a]
= 2 (a × b) = RHS. Hence proved.

Question 5. Find λ and µ, if ( 2 ^i + 6 ^j + 27 ^ ^ ^ ^

k) × ( i + λ j + µ k) = 0 .
Solution Given, (2$i + 6$j + 27k$ ) × ($i + λ$j + µk$ ) = 0
$i $j k$
⇒ 2 6 27 = 0 ⇒ i$ (6µ − 27λ ) − $j (2µ − 27) + k$ (2λ − 6) = 0i$ + 0$j + 0k$
1 λ µ
On comparing the corresponding components, we have
27
6µ − 27λ = 0, −2µ + 27 = 0,2λ − 6 = 0 ⇒ 2µ = − 9λ ,µ = and λ=3
2
27
Hence, λ = 3 and µ =
2
Question 6. Given that a ⋅ b = 0 and a × b = 0 . What can you conclude
about the vectors a and b?
Solution Given that a ⋅ b = 0
Then, either | a| = 0 or | b| = 0 or a ⊥ b (in case a and b are non-zero) and if
a × b = 0 then either | a| = 0 or | b| = 0 or a | | b (in case a and b are non-zero)
But a and b cannot be perpendicular and parallel simultaneously.
Hence, | a| = 0 or | b| = 0
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 601

Question 7. Let the vectors a, b, c be given as a1 ^i + a2 ^j + a3 ^

k,
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
b1 i + b2 j + b3 k, c1 i + c2 j + c3 k, then show that
a × ( b + c) = a × b + a × c .
Solution Given, a = a1i$ + a2$j + a3k$ , b = b1i$ + b2$j + b3k$ ,
and c = c1$i + c 2$j + c 3k$
Now, b + c = (b1 + c1)$i + (b2 + c 2)$j + (b3 + c 3)k$
$i $j k$ $i $j k$ $i $j k$
∴ a × (b + c) = a1 a2 a3 = a1 a2 a3 + a1 a2 a3 …(i)
b1 + c1 b2 + c 2 b3 + c 3 b1 b2 b3 c1 c 2 c 3
[Using the properties of determinant]
$i $j k$ $i $j k$
Now, a × b = a1 a2 a3 and a × c = a1 a2 a3
b1 b2 b3 c1 c 2 c 3

i$ $j k$ $i $j k$
∴ (a × b) + (a × c) = a1 a2 a3 + a1 a2 a3 …(ii)
b1 b2 b3 c1 c 2 c 3

From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get a × (b + c) = a × b + a × c. Hence, proved.

Question 8. If either a = 0 or b = 0, then a × b = 0. Is the converse true?
Justify your answer with an example.
Solution If a = 0 or b = 0, then surely a × b = 0 .
However, the converse is not true i. e., if a × b = 0, then a = 0 or b = 0 may
not hold.
We know a × b = ab sin θ, if a and b are parallel, then θ = 0° and sin 0 = 0.
∴ a ×b =0
As an example, consider the vectors a = $i, b = $i, then a ≠ 0 and also b ≠ 0
But a × b = $i × $i = 0
Alternate method
Let a = $i + $j + k$ and b = 4$i + 4$j + 4k$
∴ | a| = 12 + 12 + 12 = 1 + 1 + 1 = 3 ≠ 0
| b| = 42 + 42 + 42 = 16 + 16 + 16 = 48 = 4 3 ≠ 0
i$ $j k$
Now, a × b = 1 1 1 = (4 − 4)$i − (4 − 4)$j + (4 − 4)k$ = 0
4 4 4
Thus, a × b = 0 when | a| ≠ 0 and | b| ≠ 0.
Note If a × b = 0, then it is not necessary that either | a| = 0 or | b| = 0.
602 www.arihantbooks.com

Question 9. Find the area of the triangle with vertices

A(1, 1, 2), B( 2, 3, 5) and C(1, 5, 5).
1
To determine the area of triangle, use formula ∆ = |AB × AC|.
2
Solution The vertices of triangle ABC are given as A (1, 1, 2), B(2, 3, 5)
and C(1, 5, 5).
First we find vectors AB and AC.
Now, AB = PV of B − PV of A = (2i$ + 3$j + 5k$ ) − (i$ + $j + 2k$ )
= (2 − 1)$i + (3 − 1)$j + (5 − 2)k$ = $i + 2$j + 3k$
and AC = PV of C − PV of A
= ($i + 5$j + 5k$ ) − ($i + $j + 2k$ )
= (1 − 1)i$ + (5 − 1)$j + (5 − 2)k$ = 4$j + 3k$
$i $j k$
∴ AB × AC = 1 2 3 = i$(6 − 12) − $j(3 − 0) + k$ (4 − 0) = − 6i$ − 3$j + 4k$
0 4 3
Comparing with X = xi$ + y$j + zk$ , we get x = − 6, y = − 3, z = 4
∴ | AB × AC| = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = (−6)2 + (−3)2 + (4)2 = 36 + 9 + 16 = 61
1 1 61
Area of ∆ ABC = | AB × AC| = × 61 = sq unit.
2 2 2
61
Hence, the area of ∆ ABC is sq unit.
2
Question 10. Find the area of the parallelogram whose adjacent sides
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
are determined by the vectors a = i − j + 3 k and b = 2 i − 7 j + k .

To determine the area of parallelogram, use the formula, |a × b|.

Solution The area of the parallelogram whose adjacent sides are a and
b is | a × b | .
Adjacent sides are given as a = $i − $j + 3k$ and b = 2$i − 7$j + k$
$i $j k$
∴ a ×b = 1 −1 3 = $i (−1 + 21) − $j (1 − 6) + k$ (−7 + 2) = 20$i + 5$j − 5k$
2 −7 1

Comparing with X = xi$ + y$j + zk$ , we get x = 20, y = 5, z = − 5

∴Area of the parallelogram = | A × B |
⇒ | a × b| = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = (20)2 + 52 + (−5)2 = 450 = 225 × 2
= 15 2 sq unit
Hence, the area of the given parallelogram is 15 2 sq unit.
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 603

2
Question 11. Let the vectors a and b be such that |a| = 3 and |b| = ,
3
then a × b is a unit vector, if the angle between a and b is
π π π π
(a) (b) (c) (d)
6 4 3 2
2
Solution (b) It is given that | a| = 3 and | b| = ⋅
3
Let θ be the angle between a and b, then | a × b| = 1
2 1 π
⇒ | a| | b| sin θ = 1 ⇒ 3 × × sin θ = 1 ⇒ sin θ = ⇒ θ=
3 2 4
π
Hence, a × b is a unit vector, if the angle between a and b is .
4
 1^ ^
Question 12. Area of a rectangle having vertices A  − ^i + j + 4 k ,
 2 
^ 1 ^ ^ ^ 1 ^ ^  ^ 1^ ^
B  i + j + 4 k , C  i − j + 4 k and D  − i − j + 4 k is
 2   2   2 
1
(a) (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 4
2
To determine the area of rectangle, use the relation that if a and b are the
adjacent sides of a parallelogram, then area of parallelogram = |a × b|.
Solution (c) The position vectors of vertices A, B, C and D of rectangle
ABCD are given.
First , we compute vectors AB and AD.
 1   1 
Now, AB = PV of B − PV of A =  $i + $j + 4k$  −  − $i + $j + 4k$ 
 2   2 
 1 1
= [1 − (− 1)]$i +  −  $j + (4 − 4)k$ = 2$i
 2 2
 1   1 
and AD = PV of D − PV of A =  − i$ − $j + 4k$  −  − i$ + $j + 4k$ 
 2   2 
 1 1 
= [− 1 − (− 1]i$ +  − −  $j + (4 − 4)k$ = − $j
 2 2
i$ $j k$
∴ AB × AD = 2 0 0 = − 2k$
0 −1 0

Area of rectangle ABCD = | AB × AD | = (−2)2 = 2 sq unit

[Now, it is known that the area of a parallelogram whose adjacent sides
are a and b is | a × b| .]
Hence, the area of the rectangle is | AB| × | AD| = 2 sq unit
604 www.arihantbooks.com

Note If a and b are the adjacent sides of a parallelogram, then

area = | a × b |. If a and b are the diagonals of a parallelogram, then
1
area = | a × b |
2

Miscellaneous Exercise
Question 1. Write down a unit vector in XY-plane, making an angle of
30° in anticlockwise direction with the positive direction of X-axis.
Solution Let OP make 30° with X-axis, 60° Z
with Y-axis and 90° with Z-axis and it lies in
XY-plane.
∴ Direction cosines of OP are cos 30° , cos 60°
3 1 3 $ 1$
and cos 90° i. e., , , 0. Thus, OP is i + j, O 90° Y
2 2 2 2
60°
2
 3  1
2
3 1 30°
| OP| =   +  = + = 1 =1
 2   2 4 4
which is required unit vector in XY-plane. X P

Question 2. Find the scalar components and hence magnitude of the

vector joining the points P ( x1 , y1 , z1 ) and Q( x2 , y2 , z2 ).
Solution The vector joining the points P(x1, y1, z1) and Q(x 2, y 2, z2) can
be obtained by,
PQ = PV of Q − PV of P = (x 2i$ + y 2$j + z2k$ ) − (x1i$ + y1$j + z1k$ )
= (x 2 − x1)i$ + (y 2 − y1)$j + (z2 − z1)k$
∴Scalar components of PQ are x 2 − x1, y 2 − y1, z2 − z1 .
∴Magnitude of | PQ| = (x 2 − x1)2 + (y 2 − y1)2 + (z2 − z1)2

Question 3. A girl walks 4 km towards west then, she walks 3 km in a

direction 30° east of north and stops. Determine the girl’s displacement
from her initial point of departure.
N
Solution Let O and B be the initial and final
positions of the girl respectively. B
3 km
Then, the girls’s position can be shown as in
30°

the figure. Now, we have OA = 4i$

60°
W E
AB = $i | AB | cos 60° + $j | AB| sin 60° A 4 km O
(AB cos 60° is component AB, along X-axis
and AB sin 60° is component of AB = along
Y-axis)
S
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 605

1 $ 3 3$ 3 3$
= $i 3 ×
+ j3 × = i+ j
2 2 2 2
By the triangle law of vector addition, we have
3 3 3 $  3 3 3$
OB = AO + AB = (−4i$) +  i$ + j =  − 4 +  $i + j
2 2   2 2
 −8 + 3  $ 3 3 $ −5 $ 3 3 $
= i + j= i+ j
 2  2 2 2
Hence, the girl’s displacement from her initial point of departure is
−5 $ 3 3 $
i+ j.
2 2
Question 4. If a = b + c, then is it true that |a| = |b| + |c| ? Justify your
answer.
Solution In triangle ABC, let CB = a, CA = b and AB = c
(as shown in the following figure)
Now, by the triangle law of addition, we have A
a = b + c.
It is clearly known that | a| , | b| and | c| represent the b
side of ∆ ABC. c
Also, it is known that the sum of the lengths of any
two sides of a triangle is greater than the third side.
B C
∴ | a| < | b| + | c| a
Hence, it is not true that | a| = | b| + | c|.

Question 5. Find the value of x for which x(^i + ^j + ^

k) is a unit vector.
Solution Given, x(i$ + $j + k$ ) is a unit vector, therefore | x (i$ + $j + k$ )| = 1
⇒ | x$i + x$j + xk$ | = 1 ⇒ x 2 + x 2 + x 2 = 1
1
⇒ 3x 2 = 1 ⇒ ± 3x = 1 ⇒ x = ±
3
1
Hence, the required values of x are ± .
3
Question 6. Find a vector of magnitude 5 units and parallel to the
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
resultant of the vectors a = 2 i + 3 j − k and b = i − 2 j + k.
Firstly, determine the resultants of vectors a and b, vector c = a + b and
then find the direction of c by finding unit vector in its direction and then
multiplying it by 5, we can find the required vector.
Solution Given vectors a = 2$i + 3$j − k$ and b = $i − 2$j + k$
→
Let c be the resultant of a and b.
∴ c = a + b = (2i$ + 3$j − k$ ) + (i$ − 2$j + k$ ) ⇒ c = 3i$ + $j + 0k$
Comparing with X = xi$ + y$j + zk$
606 www.arihantbooks.com

∴ | c | = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = 32 + 12 = 9 + 1 = 10
c 3$i + $j
∴ Unit vector in the direction of c, c$ = =
| c| 10
Hence, the vector of magnitude 5 units and parallel to the resultant of
1 3 10 $ 10 $
vectors a and b is ± 5 c = ± 5 (3i$ + $j) = ± i±
^
j
10 2 2

Question 7. If a = ^i + ^j + ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
k, b = 2 i − j + 3 k and c = i − 2 j + k find a
unit vector parallel to the vector 2 a − b + 3 c.
Solution We have,
a = $i + $j + k$ , b = 2$i − $j + 3k$ and c = i$ − 2$j + k$
Let v = 2a − b + 3c = 2(i$ + $j + k$ ) − (2i$ − $j + 3k$ ) + 3(i$ − 2$j + k$ ) = 3i$ − 3$j + 2k$
Now, | v| = |3i$ − 3$j + 2k$ | = 32 + (− 3)2 + 22 = 22
Hence, the unit vector along v is
v 3$i − 3$j + 2k$  3 $ 3 $ 2 
v$ = = = i− j+ k$ 
| v| 22  22 22 22 

Question 8. Show that the points A (1, − 2, − 8), B( 5, 0, − 2) and

C(11, 3, 7) are collinear and find the ratio in which B divides AC.

Three vectors A, B and C are collinear iff|AC| =|AB| + |BC|

Solution The given points are A(1, − 2, − 8), B(5, 0, − 2) and C (11, 3, 7).
AB = PVof B − PV of A = (5$i + 0$j − 2k$ ) − ($i − 2$j − 8k$ )
= (5 − 1)$i + (0 + 2)$j + (− 2 + 8)k$ = 4$i + 2$j + 6k$
| AB| = 42 + 22 + 62 = 16 + 4 + 36 = 56 = 2 14
BC = PV of C − PV of B = (11$i + 3$j + 7k$ ) − (5$i + 0$j − 2k$ )
= (11 − 5)i$ + (3 − 0)$j + (7 + 2)k$ = 6i$ + 3$j + 9k$
| BC | = 62 + 32 + 92 = 36 + 9 + 81 = 126 = 3 14
AC = PV of C − PV of A = (11i$ + 3$j + 7k$ ) − (i$ − 2$j − 8k$ )
= (11 − 1)i$ + (3 + 2)$j + (7 + 8)k$ = 10i$ + 5$j + 15k$
| AC| = 102 + 52 + 152 = 100 + 25 + 225 = 350 = 5 14
∴ | AC| = | AB| + | BC|
Thus, the given points A, B and C are collinear.
Let P be the point (on the line AC) which divides [AC] in the ratio λ : 1, then
λ × PV of C + 1 × PV of A
PV of the point P =
λ+1
1
= { λ (11$i + 3$j + 7k$ ) + 1($i − 2$j − 8k$ )}
λ+1
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 607

 11λ + 1 $  3λ − 2 $  7λ − 8 $
= i +  j+  k
 λ+1   λ +1  λ + 1
B lies on line AC i. e., B is collinear with A and C, if P = B for a unique λ.
 11λ + 1 $  3λ − 2 $  7λ − 8 $
⇒  i +  j+   k = 5i$ + 0$j − 2k$
 λ+1   λ +1  λ + 1
11λ + 1 3λ − 2 7λ − 8
⇒ = 5, = 0 and = −2
λ+1 λ+1 λ+1
⇒ 11λ + 1 = 5λ + 5, 3λ = 2, 7λ − 8 = − 2λ − 2
2 2
⇒ 6λ = 4, λ = , 9λ = 6 ⇒ λ =
3 3
2
Hence, A, B, C are collinear and B divides [AC] in the ratio : 1 i.e., 2 : 3.
3
Question 9. Find the position vector of point R which divides the line
joining two points P( 2a + b) and Q ( a − 3 b) externally in the ratio 1 : 2.
Also, show that P is the middle point of the line segment RQ.
Solution It is given that OP = 2a + b,OQ = a − 3b
If a point divides the line joining point P and Q externally in the ratio
m(PV of Q) − n (PV of P)
m:n, then position vector of the point is
m−n
It is given that point R divides a line segment joining two points P and Q
externally in the ratio 1 : 2. Then, on using the section formula, we get
(a − 3b) × 1 − (2a + b) × 2
Position vector of point R =
1−2
a − 3b − 4a − 2b −3 a − 5 b
= = = 3a + 5b
−1 −1
OQ + OR
Now, position vector of mid-point of RQ =
2
(3a + 5b) + (a − 3b) 4a + 2b
= = = 2a + b
2 2
Also, the position vector of point P = 2a + b
which shows that P is mid-point of line segment RQ.
Question 10. The two adjacent sides of a parallelogram are
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
2 i − 4 j + 5 k and i − 2 j − 3 k. Find the unit vector parallel to its diagonal.
Also, find its area.
Solution Adjacent sides of a parallelogram are
given as a = 2i$ − 4$j + 5k$ and b = $i − 2$j − 3k$ . b

Then, the diagonal of a parallelogram is given by

a
v = a + b.
608 www.arihantbooks.com

(Q From the figure, it is clear that resultant of adjacent sides of a

parallelogram is given by the diagonal)
∴ v = 2$i − 4$j + 5k$ + $i − 2$j − 3k$ = (2 + 1)$i + (− 4 − 2)$j + (5 − 3)k$ = 3$i − 6$j + 2k$
Comparing with X = xi$ + y$j + zk$ , we get
x = 3, y = − 6, z = 2
∴ | v | = x 2 + y 2 + z2 = (3)2 + (− 6)2 + (2)3 = 9 + 36 + 4 = 49 = 7
Thus, the unit vector parallel to the diagonal is
v 3$i − 6$j + 2k$ 3 $ 6 $ 2 $
= = i− j+ k
| v| 7 7 7 7
i$ $j k$
Also, area of parallelogram ABCD, | a × b| = 2 −4 5
1 −2 −3

= | i$(12 + 10) − $j(− 6 − 5) + k$ (− 4 + 4)| = | 22$i + 11$j + 0k$ |

= (22)2 + (11)2 + 02 = (11)2 (22 + 12) = 11 5 sq unit
Note If d1 and d 2 are the diagonals of a parallelogram, then area of
1
parallelogram = | d1 × d 2 |
2
Question 11. Show that the direction cosines of a vector equally
1 1 1
inclined to the axes OX , OY and OZ are , , ⋅
3 3 3
Solution Let a vector be equally inclined to OX, OY and OZ and let it
make an angle α with each of these three, then the direction cosines are
cos α , cos α and cos α.
⇒ cos 2 α + cos 2 α + cos 2 α = 1 (Q l 2 + m2 + n 2 = 1)
⇒ 3 cos 2 α = 1
1 1
⇒ cos 2 α = ⇒ cos α = ±
3 3
Hence, the direction cosines of the vector which is equally inclined to the
1 1 1 1 1 1
axes are either , , or − ,− ,− ⋅
3 3 3 3 3 3

Question 12. Let a = ^i + 4 ^j + 2 ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^

k, b = 3 i − 2 j + 7 k and c = 2 i − j + 4 k.
Find a vector d which is perpendicular to both a and b and c ⋅ d = 15 .
Solution The vector which is perpendicular to both a and b must be
parallel to a × b.
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 609

$i $j k$
Now, a×b= 1 4 2 = i$ (28 + 4) − $j (7 − 6) + k$ (− 2 − 12) = 32i$ − $j − 14k$
3 −2 7
Let d = λ (a × b) = λ (32$i − $j − 14k$ )
Also, c ⋅ d = 15 ⇒ (2i$ − $j + 4k$ ) ⋅ λ (32i$ − $j − 14k$ ) = 15
⇒ 2 × (32λ ) + (−1) × (− λ ) + 4 × (−14λ ) = 15
15 5
⇒ 64λ + λ − 56λ = 15 ⇒ 9λ = 15 ⇒ λ = =
9 3
5
∴ Required vector, d= (32i$ − $j − 14k$ ).
3

Question 13. The scalar product of the vector ^i + ^j + ^

k with a unit
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
vector along the sum of vectors 2 i + 4 j − 5 k and λ i + 2 j + 3 k is equal to
one. Find the value of λ.
Solution Let a = $i + $j + k$ , b = 2$i + 4$j − 5k$ and c = λi$ + 2$j + 3k$
Now, b + c = 2$i + 4$i − 5k$ + λ$i + 2$j + 3k$ = (2 + λ )i$ + 6$j − 2k$
∴ | b + c| = (2 + λ )2 + (6)2 + (−2)2

= 4 + λ2 + 4λ + 36 + 4 = λ2 + 4λ + 44
b + c (2 + λ )i$ + 6$j − 2k$
The unit vector along (b + c), i.e., =
| b + c| λ2 + 4λ + 44
Scalar product of ($i + $j + k$ ) with this unit vector is 1.
b+c (2 + λ )i$ + 6$j − 2k$
∴ (i$ + $j + k$ ) ⋅ = 1 ⇒ (i$ + $j + k$ ) ⋅ =1
| b + c| λ2 + 4λ + 44
1(2 + λ ) + 1(6) + 1(−2) (2 + λ ) + 6 − 2
⇒ = 1⇒ =1
λ + 4λ + 44
2
λ2 + 4λ + 44

⇒ λ + 6 = λ2 + 4λ + 44 ⇒ (λ + 6)2 = λ2 + 4λ + 44
⇒ λ2 + 12λ + 36 = λ2 + 4λ + 44 ⇒ 8λ = 8 ⇒ λ = 1.
Hence, the value of λ is 1.
Question 14. If a, b, c are mutually perpendicular vectors of equal
magnitudes, show that the vector (a + b + c) is equally inclined to a, b and
c.

If a, b and c are mutually perpendicular vectors, then a⋅ b = b⋅ c = c⋅ a = 0

Solution Given, a ⋅ b = b⋅c = c⋅a = 0

(Qa, b, c are mutually perpendicular)
610 www.arihantbooks.com

It is also given that | a| = | b| = | c| (QAll the vectors have same magnitude)

Let vector (a + b + c) be inclined to a, b and c at angles α , β and γ
respectively.
Then, we have
(a + b + c) ⋅ a a ⋅ a + b ⋅ a + c ⋅ a a⋅a + 0 + 0 | a|2
cos α = = = =
| a + b + c| | a| | a + b + c| | a| | a + b + c| | a| | a + b + c| | a|
[Q b ⋅ c = c ⋅ a = 0]
| a|
=
| a + b + c|
(a + b + c) ⋅ b a ⋅ b + b ⋅ b + c ⋅ b b⋅b + 0 + 0 | b|2
cos β = = = =
| a + b + c| | b| | a + b + c| | b| | a + b + c| | b| | a + b + c| | b|
[Q a ⋅ b = c ⋅ b = 0]
| b|
=
| a + b + c|
(a + b + c) ⋅ c a ⋅ c + b ⋅ c + c ⋅ c c⋅c + 0 + 0 | c|2
cos γ = = = =
| a + b + c| | c| | a + b + c| | c| | a + b + c | | c | | a + b + c| | c|
[Q a ⋅ c = b ⋅ c = 0]
|c|
= . Now, as | a| = | b | = | c|, therefore, cos α = cos β = cos γ
| a + b + c|
∴ α =β = γ
Hence, the vector (a + b + c) is equally inclined to a, b and c.
Question 15. Prove that ( a + b) ⋅ ( a + b) = |a|2 + |b|2 , if and only if a, b
are perpendicular, given a ≠ 0, b ≠ 0.

To expand ( a + b) ⋅ ( a + b), use a ⋅ a =|a|2 and b ⋅ b =|b|2, a⋅ b = b⋅ a.

Solution Given, (a + b) ⋅ (a + b) = | a|2 + | b|2

⇒ a ⋅ (a + b) + b ⋅ (a + b) = | a|2 + | b|2
⇒ a ⋅ a + a ⋅ b + b ⋅ a + b ⋅ b = | a|2 + | b|2
⇒ | a|2 + 2a ⋅ b + | b|2 = | a|2 + | b|2
2a ⋅ b = 0 [Q a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a
(scalar product is commutative)]
⇒ a ⋅ b =0
∴ a and b are perpendicular. [given a ≠ 0, b ≠ 0]
Direction (Q.Nos. 16 to 19) Choose the correct answer in Q. 16 to 19.
Question 16. If θ is the angle between two vectors a and b, then a ⋅ b ≥ 0
only when
π π
(a) 0 < θ < (b) 0 ≤ θ ≤ (c) 0 < θ < π (d) 0 ≤ θ ≤ π
2 2
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 611

Solution (b) It is given that a ⋅ b ≥ 0

We know that a ⋅ b = | a| | b| cos θ ≥ 0 ⇒ cos θ ≥ 0, [| a| and | b| are positive]
π
⇒ 0 ≤θ ≤
2
Question 17. Let a and b be two unit vectors and θ is the angle between
them. Then, a + b is a unit vector, if
π π π 2π
(a) θ = (b) θ = (c) θ = (d) θ =
4 3 2 3
Solution (d) Let a and b be two unit vectors and θ be the angle
between them.
Then, | a| = | b| = 1
Now, (a + b) is a unit vector if
| a + b | = 1 ⇒ (a + b)2 = 1
⇒ (a + b) ⋅ (a + b) = 1 ⇒ a ⋅ a + a ⋅ b + b ⋅ a + b ⋅ b = 1
⇒ | a|2 + | b|2 + 2a ⋅ b = 1 [Q a ⋅ b = b ⋅ a]
1 1
⇒ 12 + 12 + 2a ⋅ b = 1 ⇒ a ⋅ b = − ⇒ | a| | b| cos θ = −
2 2
1 1 2π
⇒ 1 × 1 × cos θ = − ⇒ cos θ = − ⇒ θ =
2 2 3

Question 18. The value of ^i ⋅ (^j × ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^

k) + j ⋅ ( k × i ) + k ⋅ ( i × j) is
(a) zero (b) −1 (c) 1 (d) 3
Solution (d) We have, i ⋅ ( j × k) + j ⋅ (k × i) + k ⋅ (i × i) = $i ⋅ $i + $j ⋅ $j + k$ ⋅ k$
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
[Q $j × k$ = $i, k$ × $i = $j, $i × $j = k$ ]
=1+ 1+ 1= 3 [Q i$ ⋅ $i = $j ⋅ $j = k$ ⋅ k$ = 1]
Question 19. If θ is the angle between any two vectors a and b, then
|a ⋅ b| = |a × b|when θ is equal to
π π
(a) zero (b) (c) (d) π
4 2
Solution (b) We have | a ⋅ b| = | a × b| ⇒ | a| | b| cos θ = | a| | b | sin θ
⇒ cos θ = sin θ [| a| and | b| are positive]
π
⇒ tan θ = 1 ⇒ θ =
4

Selected NCERT Exemplar Problems

Question 1. If a + b + c = 0, show that a × b = b × c = c × a. Interpret
the result geometrically?
Solution a + b + c = 0 ⇒ a + b = −c
⇒ (a + b) × b = − c × b ⇒ a × b + b × b = b × c [Q − c × b = b × c]
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⇒ a×b=b×c (Qa × a = 0) …(i)

Again, a + b + c = 0 ⇒ a + c = − b ⇒ (a + c) × a = − b × a
⇒ a × a + c × a = a ×b [Q − b × a = a × b]
⇒ c×a=a×b (Qa × a = 0) …(ii)
From, Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get a × b = b × c = c × a
Here, a + b + c = 0 means that a, b, c form a triangle, that means a, b, c
vectors are on the same plane. We know that the cross product of two
non-linear vectors will geometrically give the area of the parallelogram
they makes and the half of that value would give the area of the triangle.
So, a × b, b × c and c × a refer to same triangle so the modulus value of all
three should be equal. Since a, b, c are in the same plane, the direction of
there cross products should also be same which make these vectors
product equal.

Question 2. If a = ^i + ^j + ^ ^ ^
k and b = j − k, find a vector c such that
a × c = b and a ⋅ c = 3.
Solution Given, a = $i + $j + k$ and b = 0$i + $j − k$
Let c = xi$ + y$j + zk$ such that a × c = b and a ⋅ c = 3.
$i $j k$
Now, a × c = b ⇒ 1 1 1 = 0$i + $j − k$
x y z

⇒ (z − y)i$ − $j(z − x) + k$ (y − x) = 0i$ + $j − k$ ⇒ z − y = 0⇒y = z …(i)

− z + x = 1⇒ x = 1 + z …(ii)
y − x = −1 …(iii)
Also, a ⋅ c = 3 ⇒ (i$ + $j + k$ ) ⋅ (xi$ + y$j + zk$ ) = 3 ⇒ x + y + z = 3 …(iv)
Putting the values of x and y from Eqs. (i) and (ii) in Eq. (iv), we get
2
(1 + z) + z + z = 3 ⇒ 3z = 2 ⇒ z =
3
2 5
Putting value of z in Eqs (i) and (ii), we get y = and x =
3 3
These values of x and y also satisfy Eq. (iii).
5 2 2
∴ x = ,y = ,z=
3 3 3
5 2 2
∴ c = i$ + $j + k$ , which is the required vector.
3 3 3
b2 + c 2 − a 2
Question 3. Prove that in any triangle ABC , cos A = ,
2 bc
where a, b, c are the magnitude of the sides opposite to the vertices A, B, C
respectively.
 NCERT Class XII Mathematics Solutions 613

Let ABC be a triangle with BC = a, CA = b and AB = c. Then,

|a| = |BC| = a|
, b| = |CA| = b|
, c| = |AB |= c
Solution By triangle law of addition of vectors, we have
BC + CA = BA A
⇒ BC + CA = − AB ⇒ a + b = − c
⇒ a + b + c =0⇒b + c = − a c b
⇒ (b + c) ⋅ (b + c) = (− a) (− a)
⇒ (b + c) ⋅ (b + c) = a ⋅ a (Qx ⋅ x = | x |2)
B C
⇒ (b + c)2 = a 2 ⇒ | b|2 + | c|2 + 2b ⋅ c = | a |2 a
⇒ | b|2 + | c|2 + 2 | b| | c| cos (π − A) = | a|2 ⇒ b 2 + c 2 − 2bc cos A = a2
b 2 + c 2 − a2
⇒ 2bc cos A = b 2 + c 2 − a2 ⇒ cos A =
2bc
Question 4. If a, b, c determine the vertices of a triangle show that
1/ 2 [ b × c + c × a + a × b ] gives the vector area of the triangle. Hence,
deduce the condition that the three points a, b, c are collinear. Also, find
the unit vector normal to the plane of the triangle.
1
Solution Area of ∆ABC = | AB × AC|
2
Now, AB = Position vector of B –Position vector of A
⇒ AB = b − a
AC = Position vector of C − Position vector of A
⇒ AC = c − a
∴ AB × AC = (b − a) × (c − a) = b × c − b × a − (a × c) + a × a
=a×b+ b×c+ c×a (Q a × a = 0)
1 1
Hence, area of ∆ABC = | AC × AC| = | a × b + b × c + c × a|
2 2
If the points A, B, C are collinear, then area of ∆ABC = 0
1
⇒ |a × b + b × c + c × a | =0 ⇒ |a × b + b× c + c × a | =0
2
⇒ a × b + b × c + c × a =0
Thus, a × b + b × c + c × a = 0 is the required condition of collinearity of
three points a, b, c.
Now, the unit vector normal to the plane of the triangle is given by
a×b+b×c+c×a
n$ =
|a ×b+ b×c+ c×a|
Question 5. Show that area of the parallelogram whose diagonals are
|a × b|
given by a and b is . Also, find the area of the parallelogram whose
2
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
diagonals are 2 i − j + k and i + 3 j − k.
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Solution Let a and b be represented by diagonals of D C

parallelogram ABCD and point of intersection of
diagonals be the origin O. b a
Area of parallelogram ABCD O
= | AB × AD| = | (OB − OA) × (OD − OA)|
 b a  b a A B
= − +  ×  + 
 2 2  2 2
−a a b b
[QBD = b and AC = a ⇒ OA = , OC = , OB = − and OD = ]
2 2 2 2
b b b a a b a a b a a b
= − × − × + × + × = − × + ×
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
a b a b  a b 2 1
= × + × = 2  ×  = | a × b| = | a × b|
2 2 2 2  2 2 4 2
It is given that diagonals are 2$i − $j + k$ and $i + 3$j − k$ .
Let a = 2i$ − $j + k$ and b = $i + 3$j − k$
$i $j k$
∴ a × b = 2 −1 1 = (1 − 3) i$ − (−2 − 1)$j + (6 + 1)k$ = − 2$i + 3$j + 7k$
1 3 −1

⇒ | a × b| = (−2)2 + 32 + 72 = 4 + 9 + 49 = 62
1 62
∴Area of parallelogram = | a × b| = sq unit
2 2