10 Vector Algebra

10.1 Introduction 10.5 Multiplication of a Vector by a Scalar

10.2 Some Basic Concepts 10.6 Product of Two Vectors
10.3 Types of Vectors 10.7 Scalar Triple Product
10.4 Addition of Vectors

Topicwise Analysis of Last 10 Years’ CBSE Board Questions

8 Maximum weightage is of Product of Two asked from Product of Two Vectors

Vectors 8 No VBQ & LA type questions were asked till now
8 Maximum VSA and SA type questions were

QUICK RECAP
VECTOR 8 Magnitude : The distance between the points
A and B is called the magnitude of the directed
8 A physical quantity having magnitude as well as
line segment AB . It is denoted by | AB | .
direction is called a vector. A vector is
represented by a line segment, denoted as 8 Position Vector : Let P be any point in space,
having coordinates (x, y, z) with respect to
AB or a . Here, point A is the initial point and some fixed point O (0, 0, 0) as origin, then the
B is the terminal point of the vector AB . vector OP having O as its initial point and P as
248 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

its terminal point is called the position vector of 8 Coinitial Vectors : Vectors having same initial
the point P with respect to O. The vector OP is point are called co-initial vectors.
usually denoted by r . 8 Collinear Vectors : Two or more vectors are
called collinear if they have same or parallel
supports, irrespective of their magnitudes and
directions.
8 Negative of a Vector : A vector having the same
magnitude as that of a given vector but directed
in the opposite sense is called negative of the
given vector. i.e., BA = − AB
Magnitude of OP is, =
OP x2 + y2 + z2
ADDITION OF VECTORS
i.e., =
|r | x2 + y2 + z2 .
8 Triangle law : Let the
In general, the position vectors of points A, B,
vectors be a and b
C, etc. with respect to the origin O are denoted
so positioned such
by a, b, c , etc. respectively. that initial point of
8 Direction cosines and Direction Ratios : one coincides with
The angles , , made by the vector r with the terminal point of the
positive directions of x, y and z-axes respectively other.=If a AB = , b BC. Then the vector a + b
are called its direction angles. The cosine values is represented by the third side of ABC
of these angles, i.e., cos , cos and cos are
i.e., AB + BC = AC
called direction cosines of the vector r , and
usually denoted by l, m and n respectively. 8 Parallelogram law :
Direction cosines of r are given as If the two vectors a
x y and b are represented
l= ,m = , by the two adjacent
2 2 2
x + y +z x + y2 + z2
2
sides OA and OB
z of a parallelogram
n=
x + y2 + z2
2 OACB, then their sum a + b is represented in
The numbers lr, mr and nr, proportional to magnitude and direction by the diagonal OC
of parallelogram OACB through their common
the direction cosines of vector r are called
point O i.e., OA + OB =
OC
direction ratios of the vector r and denoted as
a, b and c respectively. Properties of Vector Addition
i.e., a = lr, b = mr and c = nr X Vector addition is commutative i.e.,
Note : l2 + m2 + n2 = 1 and a2 + b2 + c2 ≠ 1, (in a + b = b + a.
general). X Vector addition is associative i.e.,
TYPES OF VECTORS a + (b + c=
) (a + b) + c.
X Existence of additive identity : The zero vector
8 Zero vector : A vector whose initial and terminal
acts as additive identity i.e.,
points coincide is called a zero (or null) vector.
It cannot be assigned a definite direction as it a+0= a= 0 + a for any vector a .
X Existence of additive inverse : The negative
has zero magnitude and it is denoted by the 0 .
of a i.e., − a acts as additive inverse i.e.,
8 Unit Vector : A vector whose magnitude is
a + (−a)= 0= (−a) + (a) for any vector a.
unity i.e., | a | = 1 . It is denoted by a .
MULTIPLICATION OF A VECTOR BY A SCALAR
8 Equal Vectors : Two vectors a and b are said
to be equal, written as a = b , iff they have 8 Let a be a given vector and be a given scalar
equal magnitudes and direction regardless of (a real number), then a is defined as the
the positions of their initial points. multiplication of vector a by the scalar
Vector Algebra 249

Its magnitude is times the modulus of SECTION FORMULA

a i.e., a = a. 8 Let A, B be two points such that
Direction of a is same as that of a if 0 = OA a= and OB b.
and opposite to that of a if 0. X The position vector r of the point P which
1 divides the line segment AB internally in the
Note : If = , provided that a 0, then
|a | mb + na
ratio m : n is given by r = .
a represents the unit vector in the direction m+n
a X The position vector r of the point P which
of a i.e. a = | a |
divides the line segment AB externally in the
mb − na
COMPONENTS OF A VECTOR ratio m : n is given by r = .
m−n
8 Let O be the origin and P(x, y, z) be any point X The position vector r of the mid-point of the
in space. Let iˆ , jˆ , kˆ be unit vectors along a+b
the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis respectively. line segment AB is given by r = .
2
Then OP= xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ , which is called the PRODUCT OF TWO VECTORS
component form of OP . Here x, y and z are
8 Scalar (or dot) product : The scalar (or dot)
scalar components of OP and xi , y j , zk are
vector components of OP . product of two (non-zero) vectors a and b,
denoted by a b (read as a dot b ), is defined as
8 If a and b are two given vectors as
a b= a b cos = ab cos ,
a a1iˆ + a2 jˆ + a3 kˆ and =
= b b1iˆ + b2 jˆ + b3 kˆ and
be any scalar, then =
where, a a= , b b and (0 ) is the
X a +b = (a1 + b1 )i + (a2 + b2 ) j + (a3 + b3 )k angle between a and b.
X a −b = (a1 − b1 )i + (a2 − b2 ) j + (a3 − b3 )k X Properties of Scalar Product :
X = a ( a1 )i + ( a2 ) j + ( a3 )k (i) Scalar product is commutative : a b =b a
X a= b = a1 b= 1 , a2 b2 and a3 = b3 (ii) a 0 = 0
X a and b are collinear iff
(iii) Scalar product is distributive over addition :
b1 b2 b3
= = = . • a (b + c )= a b + a c
a1 a2 a3
VECTOR JOINING TWO POINTS • a +b c = a c +b c
8 If P1(x1, y1, z1) Z
P2(x2, y2, z2) (iv) (a b ) =
( a) b =a ( b ), be any scalar.
and P2 (x2, y2, z2)
are any two (v) If i, j, k are three unit vectors along three
points in the k mutually perpendicular lines, then
P1(x1, y1, z1)
space then the Y i i =j j =k k=
1 and i j =j k =k i =0
i O
vector joining j (vi) Angle between two non-zero vectors
P1 and P2 is the
X a b
vector P1P2 . a and b is given by cos =
Applying triangle law in OP1P2, we get a b
OP1 + P1P2 = OP2 a b
i.e., = cos −1
P1=P2 OP2 − OP1 | a || b |
= ( x2 i + y2 j + z 2 k ) − ( x1 i + y1 j + z1 k ) (vii) Two non-zero vectors a an d b are mutually
= ( x2 − x1 )i + ( y2 − y1 ) j + ( z 2 − z1 )k perpendicular if and only if a b =0
(viii)If = 0, then a b =a b
P=
1P2 ( x2 − x1 )2 + ( y2 − y1 )2 + (z2 − z1 )2
If = , then a b =−a b
250 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

8 Projection of a vector on B 1
a line : Let the vector Area of triangle ABC = AB CD
2
AB makes an angle A   1 1
 C = | b || a | sin= | a b |
with directed line . p 2 2
D C
Projection of AB
= on =
AB cos AC = p. (viii) If a and b represent
The vector p is called the projection vector. Its the adjacent sides of a a
parallelogram as given in 
magnitude is p , which is known as projection A E B
the figure. b
of vector AB .
Then, area of parallelogram ABCD = AB DE
Projection of a vector a on b , is given as a b = b a sin = a b
i.e.,
1
a b
(ix) If =a a1iˆ + a2 jˆ + a3 kˆ ,=
b b1iˆ + b2 jˆ + b3 kˆ ,
|b | iˆ jˆ kˆ
8 Vector (or cross) Product : The vector (or cross) a b=a1 a2 a3
product of two (non-zero) vectors a and b (in b1 b2 b3
an assigned order), denoted by a b (read as = (a2b3 − a3b2 )i + (a3b1 − a1b3 ) j
a cross b ), is defined as a b = a b sin n + (a1b2 − a2b1 )k
where (0 ) is the angle between
(x) Angle between two vectors a and b is
a and b and n is a unit vector perpendicular to
both a and b . |a b |
given by sin =
X Properties of Vector Product : | a || b |
(i) Non-commutative : a b= −b a |a b |
i.e., = sin–1
(ii) Vector product is distributive over addition : | a || b |
a (b + c )= a b + a c 8 Scalar Triple Product : The scalar triple
product of any three vectors a, b and c is
(iii) (a b ) =
( a) b =a ( b) , be any
written as a b c or a b c .
scalar.
X Coplanarity of Three Vectors : Three vectors
(iv) ( 1a) ( 2b ) =
1 2(a b ) a, b and c are coplanar iff a (b c) = 0.
(v) i j=k, j k =i, k i =j Note :
X Volume of parallelopiped formed by
(vi) Two non-zero vectors a , b are collinear if
adjacent sides given by the three vectors
and only if a b = 0
=
a a1iˆ + a2 jˆ + a3 kˆ , = b b1iˆ + b2 jˆ + b3 kˆ ,
Similarly, a a = 0 and a (−a) = 0, since
in the first situation = 0 and in the and=
c c1iˆ + c2 jˆ + c3 kˆ , is a b c .
second one, = , making the value of sin a1 a2 a3
to be 0. i.e., a b c = b1 b2 b3
(vii) If a and b represent the adjacent sides of c1 c2 c3
a triangle as given in the figure. Then,
C X For any three vectors a , b and c ,
a (i) [a=
b c] [b=
c a] [c a b]
 (ii) [a b c] = − [a c b]
A B
D b (iii) [a a b] = 0
Vector Algebra 251

Previous Years’ CBSE

PREVIOUS Board
YEARS MCQS Questions

10.2 Some Basic Concepts 10. Write the position vector of the point which
divides the join of points with position vectors
VSA (1 mark)
3a − 2b and 2a + 3b in the ratio 2 : 1.
1. Find a vector a of magnitude 5 2, making an (AI 2016)
11. Find the unit vector in the direction of the sum
angle of with x-axis, with y-axis and an
4 2 of the vectors 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ and 4iˆ − 3 jˆ + 2kˆ
acute angle with z-axis. (AI 2014) (Foreign 2015)
2. If a unit vector a makes angles with iˆ , 12. Find a vector in the direction of a = i − 2 j that
3 has magnitude 7 units. (Delhi 2015C)
with ĵ and an acute angle with k , then
4 13. Write the direction ratios of the vector 3a + 2b
find the value of . (Delhi 2013)
where a = i + j − 2k and b= 2i − 4 j + 5k
3. Find the magnitude of the vector (AI 2015C)
a= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ . (AI 2011C) 14. Write a unit vector in the direction of the
4. Find the magnitude of the vector sum of the vectors a= 2i + 2 j − 5k and
a= 2iˆ − 6 jˆ − 3kˆ . (AI 2008C) b= 2i + j − 7k . (Delhi 2014)
10.4 Addition of Vectors 15. Find the value of p for which the vectors
3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9kˆ and iˆ − 2 pjˆ + 3kˆ are parallel.
VSA (1 mark) (AI 2014)
5. Find the sum of the vectors a = i − 2 j + k , 16. Find a vector in the direction of vector
b = −2i + 4 j + 5k and c = i − 6 j − 7k. 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 6kˆ which has magnitude 21 units.
(Delhi 2012) (Foreign 2014)
6. Find the sum of the following vectors : 17. Write a unit vector in the direction of vector
a = i − 3k, =
b 2 j − k, c= 2i − 3 j + 2 k PQ , where P and Q are the points(1, 3, 0) and
(Delhi 2012) (4, 5, 6) respectively. (Foreign 2014)

7. Find the sum of the following vectors : 18. Write a vector in the direction of the vector
iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ that has magnitude 9 units.
a = i − 2 j, b= 2i − 3 j, c= 2i + 3k (Delhi 2012)
(Delhi 2014C)
8. If A, B and C are the vertices of a triangle ABC,
a xiˆ + 2 jˆ − zkˆ and b =
19. If = 3 iˆ − y jˆ + kˆ are two
then what is the value of AB + BC + CA ?
equal vectors, then write the value of x + y + z.
(Delhi 2011C)
(Delhi 2013)
10.5 Multiplication of a Vector by a 20. Write a unit vector in the direction of the sum
Scalar of vectors a= 2iˆ − jˆ + 2kˆ and b = − iˆ + jˆ +3kˆ.
(Delhi 2013)
VSA (1 mark) 21. P and Q are two points with position vectors
9. Find the position vector of a point which divides 3a − 2b and a + b respectively. Write the
the join of points with position vectors a − 2b position vector of a point R which divides the
line segment PQ in the ratio 2 : 1 externally.
and 2a + b externally in the ratio 2 : 1.
(AI 2013)
(Delhi 2016)
252 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

22. A and B are two points with position vectors 37. Write a unit vector in the direction of
2a − 3b and 6b − a respectively. Write the a= 2iˆ − 6 jˆ + 3kˆ . (Delhi 2009)
position vector of a point P which divides the 38. Find a unit vector in the direction of the vector
line segment AB internally in the ratio 1 : 2. a = −2iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . (Delhi 2009C)
(AI 2013)
39. Find a unit vector in the direction of the vector
23. L and M are two points with position vectors
a= 6iˆ − 2 jˆ + 3kˆ . (AI 2009C)
2a − b and a + 2b respectively. Write the
40. If P(1, 5, 4) and Q(4, 1, –2), then find the
position vector of a point N which divides the
line segment LM in the ratio 2 : 1 externally. direction ratios of PQ . (AI 2008)
(AI 2013) 41. If a = iˆ + 2 jˆ − kˆ and b= 3iˆ + jˆ − 5kˆ , then find a
24. Find the scalar components of the vector AB unit vector in the direction of a − b.
with initial point A(2, 1) and terminal point (AI 2008)
B(–5, 7). (AI 2012) 42. Find a unit vector in the direction of the vector
25. Find a unit vector parallel to the sum of the a = iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . (Delhi 2008C)
vectors iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 5kˆ .
SA (4 marks)
(Delhi 2012C)
26. Find a unit vector in the direction of the vector 43. The two vectors j + k and 3i − j + 4k represent
a= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ . (AI 2012C, Delhi 2008) the two sides AB and AC, respectively of a
ABC. Find the length of the median through
27. Write the direction cosines of the vector A. (Delhi 2016, Foreign 2015)
−2iˆ + jˆ − 5kˆ . (Delhi 2011)
44. Find a vector of magnitude 5 units and parallel
28. For what value of ‘a’, the vectors 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 4kˆ
to the resultant of the vectors a= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ
and aiˆ + 6 jˆ − 8kˆ are collinear. (Delhi 2011) and b = iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ . (Delhi 2011)
29. Write a unit vector in the direction of the vector 45. Find the position vector of a point R which
a= 2iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . (AI 2011) divides the line joining two points P and
30. Find a unit vector in the direction of Q whose position vectors are (2a + b ) and
a= 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 6kˆ . (Delhi 2011C) (a − 3b ) respectively, externally in the ratio
31. Find a unit vector in the direction of the vector 1 : 2. Also, show that P is mid-point of the line
a= 2i + 3 j + 6k. (AI 2011C) segment RQ. (Delhi 2010)
32. Write a vector of magnitude 15 units in the 46. If a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ , b =
4iˆ − 2 jˆ + 3kˆ and c = iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ ,
direction of vector iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ . (Delhi 2010) then find a vector of magnitude 6 units which is
33. Write a vector of magnitude 9 units in the parallel to the vector 2a − b + 3c . (AI 2010)
direction of vector −2iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . (AI 2010) 47. Show that the points A( −2i + 3 j + 5k ),
34. Find a vector in the direction of a= 2iˆ − jˆ + 2kˆ , B(i + 2 j + 3k ) and C (7i − k ) are collinear.
which has magnitude 6 units. (Delhi 2010C) (Delhi 2009C)

35. Find the position vector of the mid-point of the 10.6 Product of Two Vectors
line-segment AB, where A is the point (3, 4, –2)
and B is the point (1, 2, 4). (Delhi 2010C) VSA (1 mark)

36. Write the value of p for which a= 3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9kˆ 48. Write the number of vectors of unit
and b = iˆ + pjˆ + 3kˆ are parallel vectors. length perpendicular to both the vectors
(Delhi 2009) a= 2i + j + 2k and b =
j+k. (AI 2016)
Vector Algebra 253

49. If a , b , c are unit vectors such that a + b + c = 0, 63. Write the projection of the vector a= 2iˆ − jˆ + kˆ
then write the value of a b + b c + c a. on the vector b = iˆ + 2 jˆ + 2kˆ . (Delhi 2014C)
(Foreign 2016)
64. If a and b are unit vectors, then find the angle
2 2
50. If a b + a b =
400 and a = 5 then write between a and b , given that 3 a − b is a
the value of | b | . (Foreign 2016) unit vector. (Delhi 2014C)
65. Write the value of cosine of the angle which the
51. If a= 7iˆ + jˆ − 4kˆ and b =
2iˆ + 6 jˆ + 3kˆ , then find
vector a= iˆ + jˆ + kˆ makes with y-axis.
the projection of a on b .
(Delhi 2014C)
(Delhi 2015, 2013C)
52. If aˆ , b̂ and ĉ are mutually perpendicular unit 66. If=a 8= , b 3 and a b =
12, find the angle
vectors, then find the value of | 2a + b + c | . between a and b . (AI 2014C)
(AI 2015) 67. Find the angle between x-axis and the vector
53. Write a unit vector perpendicular to both the iˆ + jˆ + kˆ . (AI 2014C)
vectors a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and b = iˆ + jˆ . (AI 2015) 68. Find x , if for a unit vector a ,
54. Find the area of a parallelogram whose x −a x + a =15 (AI 2013)
adjacent sides are represented by the vectors
69. Write the value of so that the vectors
2iˆ − 3kˆ and 4 jˆ + 2kˆ . (Foreign 2015)
ˆ
a= 2iˆ + jˆ + k and b = iˆ − 2 jˆ + 3kˆ are
55. If a and b are unit vectors, then what is the
perpendicular to each other.
angle between a and b so that 2 a − b is a (Delhi 2013C, 2008, AI 2012C)
unit vector ? (Delhi 2015C)
70. For what value of are the vectors iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ
56. Find the projection of the vector a= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 2kˆ
and 2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ are perpendicular?
on the vector b= 2iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ . (AI 2015C)
(AI 2013C, 2011C, Delhi 2012C)
57. Find the projection of vector i + 3 j + 7k on 71. Write the projection of b + c on a , where
the vector 2i − 3 j + 6k. (Delhi 2014) iˆ + 2 jˆ − 2kˆ and c= 2iˆ − jˆ + 4kˆ .
a= 2iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ ,b =
58. If a and b are two unit vectors such that a + b is (AI 2013C, Delhi 2007)
also a unit vector, then find the angle between 72. Find ‘ ’ when the projection of
a and b . (Delhi 2014) = ˆ ˆ ˆ
a i + j + 4k on b =ˆ ˆ ˆ
2i + 6 j + 3k is 4 units.
(Delhi 2012)
2
59. If vectors a and b are such that,=
a 3=
,b
3 73. Write the value of iˆ jˆ kˆ + iˆ jˆ . (AI 2012)
and a b is a unit vector, then write the angle
74. Write the value of kˆ jˆ iˆ + jˆ kˆ . (AI 2012)
between a and b . (Delhi 2014)
75. Write the value of kˆ iˆ jˆ + iˆ kˆ . (AI 2012)
60. If a and b are perpendicular vectors,
76. Write the angle between two vector a and b
13 and a =5, find the value of b .
a +b =
(AI 2014) with magnitudes 3 and 2 respectively having
a b =6. (AI 2011)
61. Write the projection of the vector iˆ + jˆ + kˆ along
the vector jˆ . (Foreign 2014) 77. Write the projection of the vector iˆ − jˆ on the
vector iˆ + jˆ . (AI 2011)
62. Write the value of
iˆ jˆ + kˆ + jˆ kˆ + iˆ + kˆ iˆ + jˆ . 78. If =
a 3 , b = 2 and angle between a and b is
(Foreign 2014) 60°, find a b . (Delhi 2011C)
254 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

79. What is the cosine of the angle which the vector

95. Find the projection of b + c on a where
2iˆ + jˆ + kˆ makes with y-axis ? (Delhi 2010) a = iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ ,b =
iˆ + 3 jˆ + kˆ and c = iˆ + kˆ .
2 (AI 2007)
80. Vector a and b are such that
= |a| =
3, | b |
3
and (a b ) is a unit vector. Write the angle SA (4 marks)
between a and b . (AI 2010) 96. The two adjacent sides of a parallelogram are
81. If a and b are two vectors such that 2i − 4 j − 5k and 2i + 2 j + 3k . Find the two
|a b | = | a b |, then find the angle between unit vectors parallel to its diagonals. Using
a and b . (AI 2010) the diagonal vectors, find the area of the
parallelogram. (AI 2016)
82. Find , if (2i + 6 j + 14k ) (i − j + 7k ) =0.
97. If a b = c d and a c= b d , show that
(AI 2010)
a − d is parallel to b − c , where a d and b c .
83. If =
| a | 2=
, | b | 3 and a b =
3, then find the (Foreign 2016)
projection of b on a. (AI 2010C)
r xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ , find (r iˆ ) (r
98. If = jˆ ) + xy
84. Find the value of , if the vectors 2iˆ + jˆ + 3kˆ (Delhi 2015)
and 3iˆ + 2 jˆ − 4kˆ are perpendicular to each
99. If a = iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ , b= 2iˆ + jˆ and c= 3iˆ − 4 jˆ − 5kˆ ,
other. (AI 2010C)
then find a unit vector perpendicular to both of
85. Find the angle between two vectors a and b the vectors (a − b ) and (c − b ) . (AI 2015)
with magnitudes 1 and 2 respectively and when
100. Vectors a , b and c are such that a + b + c = 0
|a b|=3. (Delhi 2009)
=
and a 3= , b 5 and c = 7 . Find the angle
86. Find the projection of a on b , if a b = 8 and between a and b . (Delhi 2014, AI 2008)
ˆ ˆ ˆ
b= 2i + 6 j + 3k. (Delhi 2009)
101. The scalar product of the vector a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ
87. If p is a unit vector and ( x − p) ( x + p) =80, with a unit vector along the sum of vectors
then find | x | . (AI 2009) b= 2iˆ + 4 jˆ − 5kˆ and =
c iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ is equal
88. Find the value of p, if to one. Find the value of and hence find the
(2i + 6 j + 27k ) (i + 3 j + pk ) =
0 (AI 2009) unit vector along b + c . (AI 2014)
102. Find a unit vector perpendicular to both
89. Find a b , if a= 3iˆ − jˆ + 2kˆ and b= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 3kˆ .
(Delhi 2009C) of the vectors a + b and a − b where
a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ ,b =
iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ . (Foreign 2014)
90. Find a b , if a = − iˆ + jˆ − 2kˆ and b= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ .
103. If a= 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + kˆ ,b = c 2 jˆ − kˆ are three
−iˆ + kˆ , =
(AI 2009C)
vectors, find the area of the parallelogram
91. Find the angle between the vectors a = iˆ − jˆ + kˆ having diagonals a + b and b + c .
and b = iˆ + jˆ − kˆ . (Delhi 2008) (Delhi 2014C)
92. =
If | a | =
3 , | b | 2 and a b =3. Find the 104. Find the vector p which is perpendicular to
angle between a and b . (AI 2008) both =4iˆ + 5 jˆ − kˆ and =iˆ − 4 jˆ + 5kˆ and
pq= 21, where q= 3iˆ + jˆ − kˆ . (AI 2014C)
93. Find | a b |, if a = iˆ − 7 jˆ + 7kˆ and b= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ .
(Delhi 2008C) 105. If a and b are two vectors such that

94. Find the value of the following : a +b = a , then prove that vector 2a + b is
iˆ ( jˆ kˆ ) + jˆ (iˆ kˆ ) + kˆ (iˆ jˆ ) (AI 2008C) perpendicular to vector b . (Delhi 2013)
Vector Algebra 255

^ ^ ^ ^ ^
106. If a = i + j + k and b= j − k, find a vector 117. Find a unit vector perpendicular to each
of the vectors a + b and a − b , where
c, such that a c = b and a c = 3.
(Delhi 2013) a= 3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 2kˆ and b = iˆ + 2 jˆ − 2kˆ .
(Delhi 2011)
107. Using vectors, find the area of the triangle
ABC with vertices A(1, 2, 3), B(2, –1, 4) and 118. If two vectors a and b are such that
C(4, 5, –1). (Delhi 2013, AI 2013) = | a | 2=
, | b | 1and a b = 1, then find the value
108. If a = i − j + 7k and b= 5i − j + k , then find of (3a − 5b ) (2a + 7b ). (Delhi 2011)
the value of , so that a + b and a − b are 119. Using vectors, find the area of the triangle with
perpendicular vectors. (AI 2013) vertices A(1, 1, 2), B(2, 3, 5) and C(1, 5, 5).
(AI 2011)
109. If a ,b ,c are three mutually perpendicular
vectors of the same magnitude, prove that 120. If a ,b and c are three mutually perpendicular
a + b + c is equally inclined with the vectors vectors of equal magnitude, show that a + b + c
a ,b and c . (Delhi 2013C) is equally inclined to a ,b and c . Also find the
angle. (Delhi 2011C)
110. Dot product of a vector with vectors
iˆ − jˆ + kˆ , 2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ and iˆ + jˆ + kˆ are 121. If a , b and c are three vectors such that
respectively 4, 0 and 2. Find the vector. =a 3= , b 4 and c = 5 and each one of
(Delhi 2013C) them is perpendicular to the sum of the other
111. Find the values of for which the angle two, then find | a + b + c |. (AI 2011C)
between the vectors = a 2 2 iˆ + 4 jˆ + kˆ and
122. Let a= iˆ + 4 jˆ + 2kˆ ,b =
3i − 2 jˆ + 7k and
b= 7iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ is obtuse. (AI 2013C) ˆ ˆ ˆ
c= 2i − j + 4k . Find a vector d which is
112. If a ,b and c are three vectors such that perpendicular to both a and b and c d = 18.
each one is perpendicular to the vector (AI 2010)
obtained by sum of the other two and 123. Using vectors, find the area of the triangle
= a 3= , b 4 and c = 5, then prove that with vertices A(2, 3, 5), B(3, 5, 8) and C(2, 7, 8).
a + b + c = 5 2. (AI 2013C, 2010C) (Delhi 2010C)
124. The scalar product of the vector iˆ + jˆ + kˆ
113. If a= 3iˆ − jˆ
and b= 2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ then
with a unit vector along the sum of vectors
express b in the form b= b1 + b2 where
2iˆ + 4 jˆ − 5kˆ and iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ is equal to one.
b1 || a and b2 a . (AI 2013C) Find the value of . (AI 2009, 2008C)
114. If a , b , c are three vectors such that 125. If a= 2iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ ,b =
− iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ and c= 3iˆ + jˆ
= , | b | 12 and | c | = 13 and a + b + c = 0 ,
| a | 5= are such that a + b is perpendicular to c ,
find the value of a b + b c + c a . then find the value of . (AI 2009C)
(Delhi 2012) 126. If a + b + c = 0 and
= , | b | 5 and | c | = 7,
| a | 3=
115. Let a = iˆ + 4 jˆ + 2kˆ ,b =
3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 7kˆ and c= 2i − j + 4k. then show that the angle between a and b
Find a vector p which is perpendicular to both is 60°. (Delhi 2008)
a and b and p c = 18. (AI 2012) 127. Find a vector of magnitude 5 units and
116. If the sum of two unit vectors aˆ and bˆ is a perpendicular to each of the vectors (a + b )
unit vector, show that the magnitude of their and (a − b ) , where a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and
difference is 3 . (Delhi 2012C) ˆ ˆ
b = iˆ + 2 j + 3k. (Delhi 2008C)
256 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

128. Three vectors a ,b , c satisfy the condition 133. Find the value of so that the four points A, B,

a + b + c = 0. Find the value of a b + b c + c a , C and D with position vectors 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ ,

if = ,| b | 4 and | c | = 2.
| a | 1= (AI 2008C) − jˆ − kˆ , 3iˆ + jˆ + 4k and − 4iˆ + 4 jˆ + 4kˆ
respectively are coplanar. (Delhi 2015C)
10.7 Scalar Triple Product 134. Prove that : [a, b + c, d][a, b, d] + [a, c, d].
(AI 2015C)
VSA (1 mark)
135. Prove that, for any three vectors a , b , c
129. Find , if the vectors a = i + 3 j + k, b= 2i − j − k [a + b b + c c + a] = 2[a b c ] (Delhi 2014)
and =
c jˆ + 3kˆ are coplanar. (Delhi 2015)
136. Show that the four points A, B, C and D
130. Find a (b c ), if a= 2iˆ + jˆ + 3kˆ , b = − iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ with position vectors 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ , − jˆ − kˆ ,
and c= 3iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . (AI 2014) 3iˆ + 9 jˆ + 4kˆ and 4 −iˆ + jˆ + kˆ respectively are
131. Find the value of which makes the coplanar. (AI 2014)

vectors a , b , c coplanar, where a= 2iˆ − jˆ + kˆ , 137. Show that the vectors a ,b ,c are coplanar if and
b = iˆ + 2 jˆ − 3kˆ and c= 3iˆ − jˆ + 5kˆ . (Delhi 2007) only if a + b ,b + c and c + a are coplanar.
(Foreign 2014)
SA (4 marks)
138. If the three vectors a ,b and c are coplanar,
132. Show that the vectors a , b and c are coplanar if prove that the vectors a + b ,b + c and c + a are
a + b , b + c and c + a are coplanar. (Delhi 2016) also coplanar. (Delhi 2014C, 2013C)
 Vector Algebra 257

Detailed Solutions

1 = (i − 3k ) + (2 j − k ) + (2i − 3j + 2k )
1. Here,
= =
l cos = , m cos
= 0
4 2 2 = 3i − j − 2k .
n = cos
Since, l2 + m2 + n2 = 1 7. Required sum = a + b + c
1 1 1 = (i − 2 j ) + (2i − 3 j ) + (2i + 3k )= 5iˆ − 5 jˆ + 3kˆ .
+ 0 + cos2 =
1, cos2 = 1− =
2 2 2
8. Let ABC be the given triangle.
1 1
cos = = n= cos = Now AB + BC = AC
2 4 4 2
(By Triangle law)
The vector of magnitude 5 2 is
=a 5 2(li + m j + nk ) AB + BC + CA =
AC + CA =
0

1 ˆ 1 ˆ
= 5 2 i + 0 jˆ + k= 5(iˆ + kˆ ) 9. Required position vector = 2 (2a + b ) − 1(a − 2b )
2 2 2 −1
2.=l cos 1 1 4a + 2b − a + 2b
= = =
, m cos and n = cos = = 3a + 4b
3 2 4 2 1
2 2 2
Now, l + m + n = 1 10. Required position vector
2 2
1 1 2 (2a + 3b ) + 1(3a − 2b ) a + 4b 4
+ + n2 =
1 = = = a+ b
2 2 2 +1 3 3 3
1 1 1 1 11. Let a= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ and b= 4iˆ − 3 jˆ + 2kˆ . Then,
+ + n2 = 1 n2 = n=
±
4 2 4 2
the sum of the given vectors is c =
1
cos = ± a +b =(2 + 4)i + (3 − 3) j + ( −1 + 2)k= 6i + k
2
But is an acute angle (given). and | c=| | a +=
b| 62 +=
12 36 + 1 = 37
1
= cos −1 = c i+k 6 1
2 3 Unit vector,=
c = = i+ k
|c | 37 37 37
3. Here, a= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ
12. A unit vector in the direction of a = iˆ − 2 jˆ
Its magnitude = a
a iˆ − 2 jˆ 1 ˆ
is aˆ = = (i − 2 jˆ )
= 32 + (−2)2 + 6=
2
9 + 4 + 36 =49 = 7. a 12 + ( −2)2 5

4. The given vector, a= 2iˆ − 6 jˆ − 3kˆ The required vector of magnitude 7 in the
7 ˆ
a =22 + ( −6)2 + ( −3=
)2 4 + 36 + 9 =7 direction of a= = 7 aˆ (i − 2 jˆ ).
5
5. The given vectors are
13. a = iˆ + jˆ − 2kˆ ; b =
2iˆ − 4 jˆ + 5kˆ
a = i − 2 j + k, b = −2i + 4 j + 5k , c = iˆ − 6 jˆ − 7kˆ
Their sum = a + b + c 3a + 2=
b 3(i + j − 2k ) + 2(2i − 4 j + 5k )
= (i − 2 j + k ) + ( −2i + 4 j + 5k ) + (i − 6 j − 7k ) = (3i + 3 j − 6k ) + (4i − 8 j + 10k=
) 7i − 5 j + 4k
= −4 jˆ − kˆ . The direction ratios of the vector

6. Required sum = a + b + c 3a + 2b are 7, −5, 4

 258 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

14. Refer to answer 11. = (a +=

b) (3i − 2 j + 6k )
15. Let a= 3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9kˆ and b = iˆ − 2 pjˆ + 3kˆ The unit vector in this direction
(3i − 2 j + 6k )
For a and b to be parallel, =
Let b= a (3 ) + ( −2 )2 + (6 )2
2

iˆ − 2 pjˆ + 3kˆ =(3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9k=

ˆ ) 3 iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9 kˆ (3i − 2 j + 6k ) 1
= = ± (3i − 2 j + 6k )
7 7
1=3 ; −2 p =
2 ,3=9
1 1 26. The given vector is a= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ
=and p = − = −
3 3 a = 32 + ( −2)2 + 62 = 7
ˆ ˆ ˆ
16. Let a= 2i − 3 j + 6k . A unit vector in the direction of vector a is
The vector in the direction of a with a magnitude a 1
of 21 = 21 â aˆ = (3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ )
=
a 7
2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 6kˆ
Required vector = 21 27. We have, a = −2iˆ + jˆ − 5kˆ
22 + ( −3)2 + 62
Direction cosines of the given vector are
2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 6kˆ
= 21 = 6iˆ − 9 jˆ + 18kˆ −2 1
7 , ,
2 2 2
17. We have PQ (−2) + (1) + (−5) (−2) + (1)2 + (−5)2
2
= OQ − OP
= ( 4i + 5 j + 6k ) − (i + 3 j ) =
3i + 2 j + 6k −5
(−2) + (1)2 + (−5)2
2
3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 6kˆ 3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 6kˆ
Required unit vector = = −2 1 −5
32 + 22 + 62 7 , ,
4 + 1 + 25 4 + 1 + 25 4 + 1 + 25
18. Refer to answer 16.
−2 1 −5
Direction cosines are , ,
19. Given, a = b 30 30 30
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
x i + 2 j − z k =− 3i y j + k
28. We have, 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 4kˆ and aiˆ + 6 jˆ − 8kˆ
x = 3, y = –2, z = –1
Two vectors are collinear if and only if,
Hence, the value of x + y + z = 0
a1 b1 c1 2 −3 4 −1
20. Refer to answer 11. = = = = = = =
a2 b2 c2 a 6 −8 2
21. Refer to answer 9.
2 −1
22. Refer to answer 10. = a= −4
a 2
23. Refer to answer 9. 29. a= 2iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ
24. Vector AB = OB − OA =a (2)2 + (1)2 + (2)=
2
4 +1+=
4 =
9 3.
= ( −5i + 7 j ) − (2i + j ) = − 7iˆ + 6 jˆ a 2iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ
So, its scalar components are (–7, 6). Required unit vector is a=
ˆ =
a 3
25. Let a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and b =
2iˆ − 3 jˆ + 5kˆ 2ˆ 1ˆ 2 ˆ
= i + j+ k
3 3 3
a + b= (i + j + k ) + (2i − 3 j + 5k )
= 3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 6kˆ 30. Refer to answer 29.

Any vector parallel to a + b 31. Refer to answer 29.

 Vector Algebra 259

32. We have, a = iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ =

1
−2iˆ + jˆ + 4kˆ
The unit vector in the direction of given vector a is 21
a iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ
=
aˆ = = 42. Refer to answer 37.
|a | 12 + ( −2)2 + 22 9
43. Take A to be as origin (0, 0, 0).
1ˆ 2 ˆ 2 ˆ Coordinates of B are (0, 1, 1) and coordinates of
aˆ =i − j + k
3 3 3 C are (3, –1, 4).
Therefore, the vector of magnitude 15 in the direction
of a is
1 2 2
=
15a 15 i − j + k = 5i − 10 j + 10k
3 3 3
33. Refer to answer 32.
34. Refer to answer 32.
35. Position vector of OA= 3iˆ + 4 jˆ − 2kˆ Let D be the mid point of BC and AD is a median
and OB = iˆ + 2 jˆ + 4kˆ of ABC.
OA + OB 3 5
Mid point of OA and OB = Coordinates of D are , 0,
2 2 2
3iˆ + 4 jˆ − 2kˆ + iˆ + 2 jˆ + 4kˆ 3
2
5
2
= + (0)2 +
2 So, length of =
AD −0 −0
2 2
4iˆ + 6 jˆ + 2kˆ
= = 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + kˆ 9 25 34 units
2 = + =
4 4 2
36. We have, a= 3iˆ + 2 jˆ + 9kˆ and b = iˆ + pjˆ + 3kˆ
Two vectors are parallel if 44. a= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ , b =
iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ
a1 a2 a3 3 2 9
= = = = = = a +=b 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ + iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ= 3iˆ + jˆ
b1 b2 b3 1 p 3
2 a + b =32 + 12 = 10
3p = 2 p= A vector of magnitude 5 in the direction of
3
37. We have, 5(a + b ) 5(3i + j )
a + b is =
22 + (−6)2 + 32 =
a= 2i − 6 j + 3k, a = 7 a +b 10
Unit vector in direction of a is 45. The position vector of R is given by
a 1 ˆ 1(a − 3b ) − 2(2a + b ) −3a − 5b
=
aˆ = 2i − 6 jˆ + 3kˆ r = = = 3a + 5b
a 7 1− 2 −1
38. Refer to answer 37. (3a + 5b ) + (a − 3b )
Mid point of RQ =
39. Refer to answer 37. 2
40. We have, P(1, 5, 4) and Q(4, 1, – 2) = 2a + b, which is P.
Since the vector is to be directed from P to Q, clearly Hence, P is the mid point of RQ.
P is the initial point and Q is the terminal point.
PQ = ( 4 −1)i + (1− 5) j + ( −2 − 4)k= 3i − 4 j − 6k 46. a = i + j + k, b = 4i − 2 j + 3k, c = i − 2 j + k
Direction ratios = < 3, – 4, – 6 > 2a − b + 3c = 2 i + j + k − 4i − 2 j + 3k
41. a = iˆ + 2 jˆ − kˆ , b = 3iˆ + jˆ − 5kˆ +3 i − 2 j + k = i − 2 j + 2k
a − b = −2iˆ + jˆ + 4kˆ
and | 2a − b + 3=c| 12 + (−2)2 + 22 = 3
2 2 2
and a − b =−
( 2) + 1 + 4 =21 A vector of magnitude 6 units in direction of
a −b 6
Unit vector in direction of a − b = 2a − b + =
3c i − 2 j + 2k= 2i − 4 j + 4k
|a −b | 3
260 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

47. We have, 2 2 2
a b =
400 25 b = 400 [Q | a |= 5]
A(−2i + 3 j + 5k ), B (i + 2 j + 3k ) and C (7i − k ).
2
i + 2 j + 3k − −2i + 3 j + 5k = 3i − j − 2k
AB = b =
16 b =
4

=
and AC 7i − k − −2i + 3 j + 5k = 9i − 3 j − 6k a b
51. Projection of a on b =
1 |b |
AB = AC
3 (7i + j − 4k ) (2i + 6 j + 3k ) 14 + 6 − 12 8
= = =
= (7i − k ) − (i + 2 j + 3k )
BC (2)2 + (6)2 + (3)2 7 7
2
= 6i − 2 j − 4k =( AC ) 52. Here aˆ ,bˆ and cˆ are mutually perpendicular
3
unit vectors.
As, AB + BC = AC
| a |=
| b=| | c=| 1 and a b =b c=c a=0 ...(1)
So, points A, B, and C are collinear.
| 2a + b + c |2 =
(2a + b + c ).(2a + b + c )
48. Given, a= 2i + j + 2k and b = j + k
= 4aˆ aˆ + 2aˆ bˆ + 2aˆ cˆ + 2bˆ aˆ + bˆ bˆ + bˆ cˆ + 2cˆ aˆ
Unit vectors perpendicular to
+cˆ bˆ + cˆ cˆ
a b
a and b are ± . = 4 | a |2 + | b |2 + | c |2 +4a b + 2b c + 4a c
|a b |

i j k (Q b a =a b,c a= a c ,c b =b c)
2 2 2
Now, a b =2 1 2 = − i − 2 j + 2k =41 +1 +1 [Using (1)]
0 1 1 =6
Unit vectors perpendicular to a and b are | 2a + b + c |=6 .

(− i − 2 j + 2k ) 1 2 2 53. Here, a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and b =

iˆ + jˆ
± = ± − i− j+ k
2 2 2 3 3 3 Vector perpendicular to both a and b is
(−1) + (−2) + (2)
So, there are two unit vectors perpendicular to the iˆ jˆ kˆ
given vectors. a b= 1 1 1 = −iˆ + jˆ + 0kˆ = −iˆ + jˆ
49. We have a , b , c are unit vectors. 1 1 0

Therefore,= Unit vector perpendicular to both a and b

a 1=
, b 1 and c = 1
a b −i + j 1
Also, a + b + c = 0 (given) = = = −i + j .
2 |a b | ( −1) + 12
2 2
a +b +c =
0
2 2 2 54. Let a= 2i − 3k and =
b 4 j + 2k
a + b + c + 2(a b + b c + c a ) =
0
The area of a parallelogram with a and b as its
1 + 1 + 1 + 2(a b + b c + c a ) =
0
adjacent sides is given by | a b |.
3 + 2(a b + b c + c a ) =0
i j k
3
(a b + b c + c a ) = − Now, a b =2 0 −3 =
12i − 4 j + 8k
2
2 2 0 4 2
50. a b +a b =
400
2 2 | a b |=(12)2 + (−4)2 + (8)2 =144 + 16 + 64
a b sin + a b cos = 400
2 2 2 2 = 224 4 14 sq. units.
=
a b sin2 + a b cos2 = 400
 Vector Algebra 261

55. Let be the angle between the unit vectors a 2 2

a + 0 + 0+ b = 169
and b. 2 2
b =−
169 a 169 52 = 144
=−
a b
cos = = a b (Q | a |= 1= | b |) ...(1) b =
12
| a || b |
Now 1 = 2a −b 61. The projection of the vector i + j + k along
2 j
1 =2 a −=
b 2a −b 2a −b the vector ĵ is (i + j + k ) =1
02 + 12 + 02
= 2 | a |2 − 2 a b − b 2 a + | b |2 = 2 − 2 2 a b + 1 62. We have,
(Q a b = b a ) iˆ jˆ + kˆ + jˆ kˆ + iˆ + kˆ iˆ + jˆ
= 3−2 2 a b = iˆ jˆ + iˆ kˆ + jˆ kˆ + jˆ iˆ + kˆ iˆ + kˆ jˆ
1 1 = kˆ − jˆ + iˆ − kˆ + jˆ − iˆ = 0 .
a b= cos = [By using (1)]
2 2 63. Refer to answer 51.
= /4
64. Refer to answer 55.
56. Refer to answer 51.
65. Let be the angle between the vector
57. Refer to answer 51.
a = i + j + k and y -axis i.e., (b =
j)
58. Given a = 1= b , a+b =
1
a b i + j + k .j
2 cos ==
a+b =1 ab i+ j+k j
(a + b ) (a + b ) = 1 1 1
= =
a a +a b + b a +b b = 1 12 + 12 + 12 12 3
2 2
a + 2a b + b =1 66. Let angle between the vectors a and b be .
1 + 2a b + 1 = 1 Given : =
a 8=
,b 3 and a b =
12
2 a b = −1 a b sin = 12
8 3 sin = 12
2 a b cos = −1
2 1 1 cos = –1
12 1
sin = = = .
1 24 2 6
cos = − = 120
2 67. Here, a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and vector along x-axis is iˆ .
2 Angle between a and iˆ is given by
59. Given, a= 3, b = , a b = 1
3 iˆ + jˆ + kˆ iˆ 1
a .i
2 cos = = =
a b sin =1 3. sin =
1 2 2
1 +1 +1 . 1 2 2 3 1 3
3
1 1
sin = = cos −1
=
2 6 3
60. Given: a b a b =0 68. Here x − a x + a = 15, where a is unit
vector.
Also, a = 5 and a + b =
13 x x + x a − a x − a a = 15
2 2 2
a+b = 132 =x −a 15 Q x a= a x
2
(a + b) (a + b) = 169 =x − 1 15
= Qa 1
2
a a + a b + b a + b b = 169 x = 42
=
16 x =4
262 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

69. Here,= a 2i + j + k and b= i − 2 jˆ + 3kˆ Also,a b= (i − j) (i + j) = i i + i j − j i − j j =1 −1 = 0

For a is perpendicular to b , a b =0 a b 0
=
Projection of a on b = =0
ˆ ˆ
2iˆ + jˆ + k iˆ − 2 jˆ + 3k = 0 |b | 2
2 1 + (–2) + 1 3 = 0 78. Here, = a 3 , b =2 and angle between
2–2 +3=0
a and b is 60°.
5
= Now a b = a b cos60= 1
2 3 2 =3.
2
70. Refer to answer 69.
79. Refer to answer 65.
71. Here, a= 2i − 2 j + k 80. Refer to answer 59.
b = iˆ + 2 jˆ − 2kˆ and c =2iˆ − jˆ + 4kˆ
81. We know that,
= | a . b | | a || b || cos |
b + c= 3iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ
and | a b | =
| a || b || sin |
Projection of b + c on a
b + c .a 3iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ . 2iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ We are given that, | a . b =
| |a b |
= =
a 2iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ | a || b || cos | =
| a || b || sin |
3 2 + 1 ( −2) + 2 1 6 | cos |=
| sin | | tan |=
1
= = = 2
22 + ( −2)2 + 12 3 tan =
1 =
4
72. Here, =
a iˆ + jˆ + 4kˆ , b =
2iˆ + 6 jˆ + 3kˆ 82. We have, 2i + 6 j + 14kˆ
ˆ ˆ iˆ − jˆ + 7kˆ = 0
Given : Projection of a on b = 4
iˆ jˆ kˆ
a b
=4 2 6 14 = 0
b
1 − 7
( i + j + 4k ) (2i + 6 j + 3k )
=4 42 + 14 iˆ − 14 − 14 jˆ + −2 − 6 kˆ = 0
2i + 6 j + 3k
2 + 6 + 12 42 + 14 = 0 or –2 – 6 = 0
=4 =–3
22 + 62 + 32
83. We have,
= | a | 2=, | b | 3 and a b =3
2 + 18 = 4 × 7
2 = 28 – 18 =10 = 5. b a 3
Projection of b on a = =
|a| 2
73. iˆ jˆ kˆ + iˆ jˆ =
kˆ kˆ + iˆ jˆ = 1 + 0 = 1
84. Refer to answer 69.
74. kˆ jˆ iˆ + jˆ kˆ = −iˆ iˆ + jˆ kˆ =
−1 + 0 = −1 85. We have,
=
| a | 1=
, | b | 2 and | a b|=3
75. kˆ iˆ jˆ + iˆ kˆ = jˆ jˆ + 0 = 1 + 0 = 1
Let be the angle between a and b , then
76. Let be the angle between a and b , then |a b | 3 3
a b 6 3 sin = = =
cos = = | a || b | 1 2 2
a b 3 2 3
3
18 3 2 2 1 sin −1
= =
= = = = 2 3
3 2 3 2 2 2
1 86. We have a b =8 and b= 2iˆ + 6 jˆ + 3kˆ
= cos −1 = .
2 4 |=
b| 22 + 62 + 32 =4 + 36 + 9 = 7
77. Let a = i − j and b = i + j a b 8
2 2 Projection of a on b = =
=
|b | 1 + 1= 1+1 = 2 |b | 7
 Vector Algebra 263

87. Refer to answer 68.

96. Let a= 2i − 4 j − 5k and b =
2i + 2 j + 3k
88. We have, (2i + 6 j + 27k ) (i + 3 j + pk ) =
0
iˆ jˆ kˆ
2 6 27 =
0
1 3 p
(6 p − 81)i − (2 p − 27) j + (6 − 6)k = 0
27 Then diagonal AC of the parallelogram is
6p – 81 = 0 or 2p – 27 = 0 p=
2 p= a + b
ˆ ˆ ˆ
89. a= 3i − j + 2k and b = 2i + 3 j + 3kˆ
ˆ ˆ = 2i − 4 j − 5k + 2i + 2 j + 3k= 4i − 2 j − 2k
a=
b 3iˆ − jˆ + 2kˆ 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 3kˆ = 6 – 3 + 6 = 9 Therefore, unit vector parallel to it is
90. a = −iˆ + jˆ − 2kˆ , b= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ − kˆ p 4i − 2 j − 2k 2i − j − k
= =
a b = ( −i + j − 2k ) 2i + 3 j − k = – 2 + 3 + 2 = 3 | p| 16 + 4 + 4 6
Now, diagonal BD of the parallelogram is
91. We have, a = iˆ − jˆ + kˆ and b =
iˆ + jˆ − kˆ
p =b − a= 2i + 2 j + 3k − 2i + 4 j + 5=
k 6 j + 8k
a b (i − j + k ) (i + j − k )
cos = = Therefore, unit vector parallel to it is
| a || b |
12 + ( −1)2 + 12 12 + 12 + ( −1)2
p 6 j + 8k 6 j + 8k 3 j + 4k
1 − 1 − 1 −1 −1 = = =
cos = = = cos −1 |p | 36 + 64 10 5
3 3 3 3

92. We have,
= |a | =
3 , | b | 2 and a b =3 i j k
Now, p =
p 4 −2 −2
a b 3 3
cos = = = 0 6 8
| a || b | 3 2 2
3 = i (−16 + 12) − j (32 − 0) + k (24 − 0)
=cos −1 =
2 6
= − 4i − 32 j + 24k
93. We have,
|p p |
a = iˆ − 7 jˆ + 7kˆ and b =
3iˆ − 2 jˆ + 2kˆ Area of parallelogram =
2
iˆ jˆ kˆ 16 + 1024 + 576
= = 2 101 sq . units.
a= b 1 −7 7 2
3 −2 2 97. Two non zero vectors are parallel if and only if
= ( −14 + 14)i − (2 − 21) j + ( −2 + 21=
)k 19 j + 19k their cross product is zero vector.
So, we have to prove that cross product of a − d and
| a=b| (19)2 + (19)2 = 19 2
b − c is zero vector.
94. iˆ . ( jˆ kˆ ) + jˆ (iˆ kˆ ) + kˆ . (iˆ jˆ ) a−d b − c= a b − a c − d b + d c
= iˆ . iˆ + jˆ ( − jˆ ) + kˆ . kˆ =
iˆ. iˆ − jˆ . jˆ + kˆ . kˆ = 1 – 1 + 1 = 1 Since, it is given that a b =c d and a c= b d
iˆ 3 jˆ + kˆ + iˆ + k=
95. b + c =+ ˆ 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 2kˆ And, d b = −b d, d c =
−c d
(b + c ) a Therefore,
Projection of b + c on a =
|a | a −d b −c = c d − b d + b d − c d =0

(2i + 3 j + 2k ) (i + 2 j + k ) 2+6+2 10 Hence, a − d is parallel to b − c , where

= = .
2
(1) + (2) + (1)2 2 1+ 4 +1 6 .
a d and b c
 264 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

98. (r j) + xy
i ) (r 2 + 1 iˆ + 6 jˆ − 2kˆ 1 ˆ
p= = 3i + 6 jˆ − 2kˆ .
= [( xi + y j + zk ) i] .[( xi + y j + zk ) j )] + xy 1 + 4 + 44 7
= ( − yk + z j ) ( xk − zi ) + xy = –xy + xy = 0 102. We have a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ , b =
iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ
99. Here, a = iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ , b = 3iˆ − 4 jˆ − 5kˆ
2iˆ + jˆ , c = Let r= a + b= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 4kˆ
a − b= (i + 2 j + k ) − (2i + j ) =
−i + j + k and p= a − b = − jˆ − 2kˆ
A unit vector perpendicular to both r and p is
c −b =(3i − 4 j − 5k ) − (2i + j ) = i − 5 j − 5k
r p
Vector perpendicular to both a − b and c − b is given as ± .
r p
iˆ jˆ kˆ ˆ
iˆ ˆj k
(a − b ) (c − b ) = −1 1 1 ˆ
Now, r p = 2 3 4 = −2iˆ + 4 ˆj − 2k
1 −5 −5
0 −1 −2
= ( −5 + 5)i − (5 − 1) j + (5 − 1)k =
−4 j + 4k
So, the required unit vector is
Unit vector perpendicular to both a − b and
−2iˆ + 4 jˆ − 2kˆ iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ
c −b = ± = + .
2
−2 + 42 + −2
2 6
−4 jˆ + 4kˆ −4 jˆ + 4kˆ −4 jˆ + 4kˆ 1
= = = = ( − jˆ + kˆ ).
−4 jˆ + 4kˆ ( −4)2 + 42 4 2 2 a 2iˆ − 3 jˆ + kˆ ; bˆ =
103. Here, = −iˆ + kˆ ; =
c 2 jˆ − kˆ
a + b =2iˆ − 3 jˆ + kˆ + −iˆ + kˆ = iˆ − 3 jˆ + 2kˆ ,
100. Given a + b + c = 0 and=
a 3=
, b 5, c = 7
b + c =−iˆ + kˆ + 2 jˆ − kˆ = −iˆ + 2 jˆ
We have a + b + c = 0
2 2 iˆ jˆ kˆ
a + b = −c a +b = −c
2
a +b b+ =c 1 −3 2 = −4iˆ − 2 jˆ − kˆ
2 2
a + b + 2(a b ) = c −1 2 0
9 + 25 + 2 a b cos =
49 Area of a parallelogram whose diagonals are
2 × 3 × 5 × cos = 49 – 34 = 15 a + b and b + c
15 1 1 1 ˆ
cos = = = = 60 = a+b b+c = −4i − 2 jˆ − kˆ
30 2 3 2 2
ˆ
101. Here, a = iˆ + jˆ + k ; b= 2iˆ + 4 jˆ − 5kˆ and 1 2 2 2 21
= −4 + −2 + −1 = sq.units.
2 2
=
c iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ
p xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ
104. Let =
b + c= 2 + iˆ + 6 jˆ − 2kˆ
Now by hypothesis, p is perpendicular to
b+c
The unit vector along b + c is p = =4iˆ + 5 jˆ − kˆ and =iˆ − 4 jˆ + 5kˆ
b+c
p = 0 and p =0
2+ iˆ + 6 jˆ − 2kˆ 2+ iˆ + 6 jˆ − 2kˆ 4x + 5y – z = 0 ...(i)
= =
2 2 2 x – 4y + 5z = 0 ...(ii)
2+ + 62 + −2 + 4 + 44
Also, a . p = 1 (Given) Also p q = 21 where q= 3iˆ + jˆ − kˆ
2+ +6−2 3x + y – z = 21 ...(iii)
=1 Now (i) – (iii)
2
+ 4 + 44
x + 4y = –21 ...(iv)
2 5 (iii) + (ii) 16x + y =105 ...(v)
+ 4 + 44 =+ 6
2
+ 4 + 44 = 2 + 12 +36 Solving (iv) and (v), x = 7, y = –7
8 =8 =1 From (i), z = –7
The required unit vector Required vector p= 7iˆ − 7 jˆ − 7kˆ .
 Vector Algebra 265

105. Here a + b =a 108. Here a = iˆ − jˆ + 7kˆ ; b =

5iˆ − jˆ + kˆ
2 2
a+b a+b = a a a + b= 6iˆ − 2 jˆ + 7 + k ˆ
a+b = a
a a+a b +b a+b b = a a a −b = −4iˆ + 7 − kˆ
=
2a b + b b 0=Qb a a b For a + b and a − b to be perpendicular,
2a + b b =0 2a + b b a+b a−b = 0
6iˆ − 2 jˆ + (7 + )kˆ −4iˆ + (7 − )kˆ = 0
106. Given a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and b =
jˆ − kˆ 6 (–4) + (7 + ) (7 – ) = 0
c xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ
Let = –24 + 49 – 2 = 0 2
= 25 =+ 5
Now we have, a c = b 109. =
a =
b c (Given) ...(i)
(i + j + k ) ( xi + y j + zk )= j − k
and=
a b 0=
, b c 0, c a = 0 ...(ii)
iˆ jˆ kˆ Let a + b + c be inclined to vectors a , b , c by
1 1 1 = jˆ − kˆ angles , and respectively. Then
x y z
a +b +c a a a+b a+c a
iˆ ( z − y ) − jˆ ( z − x ) + kˆ ( y − x )= jˆ − kˆ cos = =
a +b +c a a+b +c a
z – y = 0, x – z = 1 and y – x = –1
2
y = z, x – z = 1, x – y = 1 .....(i) a +0+0
= Using (ii)
Also, we have a c = 3 a +b +c a
(i + j + k ) ( xi + y j + zk ) = 3 a
x+y+z=3 = ...(iii)
x+x–1+x–1=3 [Using (i)] a+b +c
5 2 2 Similarly,
3x – 2 = 3 x == , y = , z
3 3 3 b
cos = ...(iv)
5ˆ 2 ˆ 2 ˆ a +b +c
Hence, = c i + j+ k
3 3 3 c
107. Given, ABC with vertices and cos = ...(v)
a +b +c
A(1, 2, 3) i + 2 j + 3k
Using (i), the equations (iii), (iv), (v)
B(2, −1, 4) 2i − j + 4k cos = cos = cos = =
C ( 4, 5, −1) 4i + 5 j − k Hence, the vector a + b + c is equally inclined to
= OB − OA
Now AB = 2iˆ − jˆ + 4kˆ − iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ the vector a , b and c .
= iˆ − 3 jˆ + kˆ . 110. Let the required vector be
= OC − OA
AC = 4iˆ + 5 jˆ − kˆ − iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ r x iˆ + y jˆ + zkˆ
=
Also let,
= 3iˆ + 3 jˆ − 4kˆ .
a = iˆ − jˆ + kˆ , b= 2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ and c =
iˆ + jˆ + kˆ
iˆ jˆ kˆ
1 1 =
r a 4= , r b 0, r c = 2 (Given)
AB=
AC 1 −3 1
2 2 x–y+z=4 ...(i)
3 3 −4
1 ˆ 2x + y – 3z = 0 ...(ii)
= 9i + 7 jˆ + 12kˆ . x+y+z=2 ...(iii)
2
Hence, area of ABC Now (iii) – (i) 2y = –2 y = –1
1 ˆ 1 2 From (ii) and (iii)
= 9i + 7 jˆ +=12kˆ 9 + 72 + 122 2x – 3z – 1 = 0, x + z – 3 = 0
2 2
x = 2, z = 1
1 1
= 81 + 49 + 144 = 274 The required vector is r= 2iˆ − jˆ + kˆ .
2 2
 266 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

111. Here,
= a 2 2iˆ + 4 jˆ + kˆ and b= 7iˆ − 2 jˆ + kˆ Solving (i) and (ii), we get 1 3
= x = ,y
If is the angle between the vectors a and b , 2 2
3
1= − +y = − + =
ab 2 2
then cos = 3 1
a b Hence,= b1 3i − j= i − j
2 2
For to be obtuse, cos 0 a b 0 1ˆ 3ˆ
2 i + 4 j + k 7i − 2 j + kˆ 0
2ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ and b=2 i + j − 3k
2 2
2 2 7+4 −2 + 1 0 114. We have,
14 2 − 7 0 (2 − 1) 0 =
| a | 5=,|b | = 12, | c | 13 and a + b + c =0
Either < 0, 2 –1 > 0 or > 0, 2 –1 < 0 (a + b + c )2 =
| 0 |2 (Squaring on both sides)
1 1
Either 0, or 0, | a |2 + | b |2 + | c |2 + 2 [a b + b c + c · a ] = 0
2 2
First alternative is impossible. 25 + 144 + 169 + 2 [a b + b c + c a ] = 0
1 1 1 2 [a · b + b · c + c · a ] =− 338
0, i.e., 0 i.e., 0,
2 2 2 − 338
a · b + b · c + c · a = = −169
112. Given,=
a 3=
, b 4, c = 5 ...(i) 2

and a =
b+c 0, b =
c +a 0, c a+b = 0 115. Refer to answer 104.
a b + a c + b c + b a+c a+c b 116. Given, aˆ + bˆ = cˆ
=0+0+0=0 ˆ ˆ
aˆ + b aˆ + b = cˆ cˆ
2 a b +2 b c +2 c a =0 ...(ii)
2 aˆ aˆ + aˆ bˆ + bˆ bˆ + bˆ aˆ = cˆ cˆ
Now a + b + c = a+b +c a+b +c 1 + aˆ bˆ + 1 + aˆ bˆ = 1
= a+b +c a+ a+b +c b + a+b +c c 2 aˆ bˆ = − 1 ...(i)
2
= a a +b a +c a +a b +b b + c b +a c +b c ˆ
Now aˆ − b = aˆ − b aˆ − b ˆ ˆ
+c c = aˆ aˆ − aˆ bˆ − bˆ aˆ + bˆ bˆ = 1 − aˆ bˆ − aˆ bˆ + 1
2 2 2
= a + b + c +2 a b +2 b c +2 c a = 2 − 2aˆ bˆ =2 − −1 Using(i)
2
=3 +4 +5 +0 2 2
[Using (i) and (ii)] =3
= 50 aˆ − bˆ = 3
a+b +c =
5 2. 117. Refer to answer 102.
113. Here a= 3iˆ − jˆ , b= 2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ 118. We have= a 2=, b 1 and a b = 1
We have to express : b= b1 + b2 , where Now, 3a − 5b 2a + 7b
2
b1 || a and b2 a 2
= 6 a + 21 a b − 10a b − 35 b
Let =b1 = a 3iˆ − jˆ and b=
2 xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ = 6 | a |2 + 11a b − 35 | b |2
Now b2 a b2 a = 0 = 6(2)2 + 11(1) – 35(1)2 = 24 + 11 – 35 = 0
xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ 3iˆ − jˆ = 0 119. Refer to answer 107.
3x – y = 0 ...(i)
120. Refer to answer 109.
Now, b= b1 + b2
Also the angle between them is given as
2iˆ + jˆ − 3kˆ =3iˆ − jˆ + xiˆ + yjˆ + zkˆ |a | |b |
On comparing, we get =cos −1 , =cos −1 ,
|a + b + c | |a +b +c |
=
2 3 +x
x + 3y = 5 ...(ii) |c |
1= − + y =cos −1
and –3 = z z = –3 |a +b +c |
 Vector Algebra 267

121. Refer to answer 112. c= 3iˆ + jˆ + 2kˆ

122. Refer to answer 104.
iˆ jˆ kˆ
123. Refer to answer 107. Now, b c =−1 2 1 = 3iˆ + 5 jˆ − 7kˆ
124. Refer to answer 102. 3 1 2
125. Here, a (b c=
) (2i + j + 3k ) (3i + 5 j − 7k )
a= 2iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ , b =
–iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ and c= 3iˆ + jˆ = 2 3 + 1 5 + 3 (–7)
Now, = 6 + 5 – 21 = –10
a+ b = (2i + 2 j + 3k ) + ( −i + 2 j + k ) 131. Since vectors, a , b , c are coplanar.
= (2 − )i + (2 + 2 ) j + (3 + )k a (b c ) = 0
Since, (a + b ) is perpendicular to c
2 −1 1
(a + b ) . c = 0
(2 – ) (3) + (2 + 2 ) (1) + (3 + ) (0) = 0 1 2 −3 = 0
6–3 +2+2 =0 =8 3 − 5
2(10 – 3 ) + 1(5+9) + 1(– – 6) = 0
126. Refer to answer 101.
20 – 6 + 14 – – 6 = 0
127. We have, a = iˆ + jˆ + kˆ and b =iˆ + 2 jˆ + 3kˆ –7 + 28 = 0 = 4.
a + b= 2iˆ + 3 jˆ + 4k and a − b = − jˆ − 2kˆ
ˆ
132. Since, a + b , b + c and c + a are coplanar.
i j k (a + b ) (b + c ) (c + a ) = 0
Now, (a + b ) (a − b ) =2 3 4 (a + b ) b c + b a + c c + c a = 0
0 −1 −2 (a + b ) (b c + b a + c a ) =
0 Qc c=0
= ( −6 + 4)i − ( −4 − 0) j + ( −2 − 0)k =
−2i + 4 j − 2k a (b c ) + a (b a ) + a (c a ) + b (b c )
| (a + b ) (a − b )=| 2 2
( −2) + ( 4) + ( −2) 2 + b (b a ) + b (c a ) =
0
= =
24 2 6 2 a (b c ) = 0 a (b c ) = 0
A vector perpendicular to each of the vectors (a + b ) a , b and c are coplanar.
and (a − b ) and magnitude 5 is 133. Here position vectors of A, B, C and D
(a + b ) (a − b ) 5( −2i + 4 j − 2k ) are 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ , − jˆ − kˆ , 3iˆ + jˆ + 4kˆ and −4iˆ + 4 jˆ + 4kˆ
5 = respectively
| (a + b ) (a − b ) | 2 6
AB = − jˆ − kˆ − 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ = −4iˆ − 6 jˆ − 2kˆ
−5 10 5 ˆ
= i+ j− k =
AC 3iˆ + jˆ + 4kˆ − 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ = − iˆ + − 5 jˆ + 3kˆ
6 6 6
AD = −4iˆ + 4 jˆ + 4kˆ − 4iˆ + 5 jˆ + kˆ = −8iˆ − jˆ + 3kˆ
128. Refer to answer 114.
For points A, B, C, D to be coplanar
129. Since the vectors are coplanar.
Vectors AB, AC , AD will be coplanar
1 3 1
[ AB AC AD] = 0
2 −1 −1 =0
−4 −6 −2
0 3
−1 −5 3 = 0
1(–3 + )–3 (6 – 0) + 1(2 – 0) = 0
−8 −1 3
–3 + – 18 + 2 = 0
3 – 21 = 0 =7 –4(3 – 15 + 3) + 6 (–3 + 24) – 2(1 + 8 – 40) = 0
–12 + 48 + 126 + 78 – 16 = 0
130. Here a= 2iˆ + jˆ + 3kˆ , b = −iˆ + 2 jˆ + kˆ 28 = 252 = 9.
 268 CBSE Chapterwise-Topicwise Mathematics

134. We know that [a, b=

, c] a b c ) 137. If the vectors a + b , b + c and c + a
are coplanar, a + b b + c c + a = 0
= [a, b + c=
L.H.S. , d] a b + c) d]
a+b b+c c +a =0
= a b d +c =
d] a b d ) + a c d )
= [a, b, d] + [a, c, d] = R.H.S. a+b b c +b a+c c +c a =0
a+b b c +b a+0+c a =0
135. We have, [a + b b + c c + a]
a b c +a b a +a c a
= (a + b ) {(b + c ) (c + a )}
+b b c +b b a +b c a =0
= (a + b ) {(b c ) + (b a ) + (c c ) + (c a )}
ab c + ab a + a c a +
= (a + b ) {(b c ) + (b a ) + (c a )} [Q c c=0]
= a (b c ) + a (b a ) + a (c a) + b b c + b b a + b c a =0

b (b c ) + b (b a ) + b (c a) a b c +0+0+0+0+ a b c =0
= [a b c ] + [b c a] 2 ab c =0 ab c =0
[QScalar triple product with two equal vectors is 0] The vectors a , b , c are coplanar.
= [a b c ] + [a b c ] (Q [b c a] = [a b c ]) Hence the vectors a , b , c are coplanar if and only if
= 2[a b c ] a + b , b + c and c + a are coplanar.
136. Refer to answer 133. 138. Refer to answer 137.