Chapter 21: Problem 38
If \(x\) and \(y\) are two non-collinear vectors and \(A B C\) is a triangle with side lengths \(a, b, c\) satisfying \((20 a-15 b) x+(15 b-12 c) y+(12 c-20 a)(x \times y)=\overrightarrow{0}\) then \(\triangle A B C\) is (A) an acute-angled triangle (B) an obtuse-angled triangle (C) a right-angled triangle (D) an isosceles triangle
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Understanding the Context
Analyzing the Equation
Setting Up Equations
Simplifying the Conditions
Solving for Ratios
Conclusion
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Non-collinear Vectors
Key characteristics of non-collinear vectors include:
- They form a non-zero plane when crossed. For example, if you cross product two non-collinear vectors, the result is a vector perpendicular to the plane formed by them.
- They are essential for specifying areas and volumes. When you have a set of non-collinear vectors, they can form the boundaries of a plane or volume, making them vital in 3D modeling and calculations.
Triangle Classification
- Acute-angled triangles: all angles are less than 90 degrees.
- Right-angled triangles: one angle is exactly 90 degrees, which also aligns with the Pythagorean theorem.
- Obtuse-angled triangles: one angle is greater than 90 degrees.
- Equilateral triangles: all sides are equal.
- Isosceles triangles: two sides are equal.
- Scalene triangles: all sides are of different lengths.
Pythagorean Theorem
Mathematically, it is expressed as:\[a^2 + b^2 = c^2\]where \(a\) and \(b\) are the lengths of the two shorter sides, and \(c\) is the length of the hypotenuse.
This theorem not only assists in verifying right-angled triangles but also plays a crucial role in vector calculations and other geometric analyses. In the exercise, by transforming the vector equation and verifying that \(a^2 + b^2 = c^2\), we determined that the given triangle \(\triangle ABC\) is right-angled. This theorem's reliability and simplicity make it a powerful tool in solving such problems, providing an easy verification of the type of triangle based on side lengths.