Chapter 1: Problem 68
If \(\mathbf{x}\) and \(\mathbf{y}\) are two non-collinear vectors and \(A B C\) is a triangle with side lengths \(a, b\) and c satisfying \((20 a-15 b) x\) \(+(15 b-12 c) y+(12 c-20 a)(x \times y)=0\), then \(\Delta A B C\) is (a) an acute angled triangle(b) an obtuse angled triangle (c) a right angled triangle (d) a scalene triangle
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Identifying the Given Equation
Analyzing Vector Cross Product Term
Analyzing Remaining Terms
Equating Coefficients to Zero
Deriving Triangle Conditions
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Cross Product
The cross product is sensitive to the order; swapping the vectors changes the sign, i.e., \( \mathbf{x} \times \mathbf{y} = - (\mathbf{y} \times \mathbf{x}) \).
For non-collinear vectors like \( \mathbf{x} \) and \( \mathbf{y} \), the cross product is non-zero.
- This product helps determine the orientation and shape characteristics of figures, such as triangles, in a geometric space.
- In our problem, it's used to identify conditions leading to specific triangle types.
Triangle Types
- Acute Triangle: All angles are less than 90 degrees.
- Obtuse Triangle: One angle is greater than 90 degrees.
- Right Triangle: One angle is exactly 90 degrees.
- Scalene Triangle: All sides, and consequently all angles, are different.
Using vector equations ensures that we can systematically derive these classifications rather than relying solely on visual or intuitive approaches.
Non-collinear Vectors
For example, in the problem, vectors \( \mathbf{x} \) and \( \mathbf{y} \) are specified as non-collinear, which is key. It confirms that \( \mathbf{x} \times \mathbf{y} \) is not zero, and hence, it restricts the set of solutions to those where these vectors suffice to define the attributes of triangle \( \triangle ABC \).
- This concept ensures the independence and dimensionality required to solve the geometric problem handled in the exercise.
- It also plays a critical role in dissecting the implications of the given vector equation.
Pythagorean Theorem
\[ c^2 = a^2 + b^2 \]
In this exercise, the triangle \( \triangle ABC \) satisfies the Pythagorean theorem, confirming it to be a right triangle. We saw that solving \( c^2 = a^2 + b^2 \) showed the consistency of the side lengths derived from the provided equations.
- This validation affirms that the triangle has a right angle between two of its sides.
- It provides a concrete mathematical check for the type of triangle, grounding the solution in a well-understood geometric principle.
Employing the Pythagorean theorem here guarantees the success of identifying the triangle type unequivocally.