Chapter 21: Problem 33
Let \(a\) be a unit vector and \(b\) be a non-zero vector not parallel to \(a\). If two sides of the triangle are represented by the vectors \(\sqrt{3}(a \times b)\) and \(b-(a \cdot b) a\), then the angles of the triangle are (A) \(30^{\circ}, 90^{\circ}, 60^{\circ}\) (B) \(45^{\circ}, 45^{\circ}, 90^{\circ}\) (C) \(60^{\circ}, 60^{\circ}, 60^{\circ}\) (D) none of these
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding Vectors
Compute Magnitudes
Check for Perpendicular Vectors
Evaluate Triangle Angles
Final Answer Verification
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Unit Vector
In the context of our problem, vector \( a \) is a unit vector. This characteristic of having a unit magnitude is important because when \( a \) is used in vector operations like the dot product or cross product, it ensures that the only changes affecting the outcome are orientation angles or interaction with other vectors. To express a vector \( \mathbf{v} \) as a unit vector, we divide it by its magnitude \( |\mathbf{v}| \) so that \( \mathbf{u} = \frac{\mathbf{v}}{|\mathbf{v}|} \). This simplification is crucial in defining precise triangle angles and lengths in the problem.