Multivariable Calculus · free preview
Equations for Planes and Distance Problems
Planes through a point with a normal vector, general linear equations, planes from three points, and distances from points to planes and lines.
1. A plane is fixed by one point and one normal direction
A plane is fixed by one point and one normal direction
2. Three points determine a plane through two cross products
Three points determine a plane through two cross products
3. Distance from a point to a plane divides by the length of the normal
Distance from a point to a plane divides by the length of the normal
4. Distance from a point to a line uses the cross product
Distance from a point to a line uses the cross product
5. Building a plane from a point and a normal
A plane passes through and has normal vector . Which equation describes the plane?
6. A normal from three points
A plane passes through , and . Which vector is normal to the plane?
7. Distance from a point to a plane
How far is the point from the plane ?
8. Distance between parallel planes
The planes and are parallel. What is the distance between them?
9. Distance from a point to a line
A line passes through with direction , and is off the line. Give the exact distance, written in the form (a*sqrt(b))/c with integers, like 2*sqrt(3)/5.
10. Where a parametrized line meets a plane
A line is parametrized by and a plane has equation . Give the value of the parameter at the point where the line crosses the plane, as a fraction like 3/2.
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