Finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes

In summary, we are looking for the standard equation of a plane, ζ, that is orthogonal to both p1 and p2 and contains the origin. ζ must contain the normal vectors (1,5,-1) and (2,5,2) and have a standard equation of ax+by+cz=0. Using these facts, we can come up with equations to solve for the coefficients a, b, and c.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


let p1 and p2 be planes in R3, with respective equations:

x+5y-z=20 and 2x+5y+2z=20

These planes are not parallel. Find the standard equation for the plane that is orthogonal to both of these planes and contains the origin.

The Attempt at a Solution



I have only managed to garner a few facts from the problem, however I don't know how to use them. Here they are:

Since the plane, we'll call it ζ that we are looking for is orthogonal to both of these planes, ζ must contain the normal vectors of both of these planes. These normal vectors, for p1 and p2 respectively, are (1,5,-1) and (2,5,2). Also, the standard equation of ζ must be equal to 0, as ζ contains the origin, ie:

ax+by+cz=0, since the origin is (x,y,z)=(0,0,0)

That's as far as I got. The information is there, I just have no clue how to use it.
 
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  • #2
Well, you've said that your plane must contain the normal vectors (x,y,z) = (1,5,-1) and (2,5,2) and looks like ax+by+cz = 0. Maybe you could put those vectors into the formula for the plane and come up with some equations...
 
  • #3
Oh wow. Thanks a bunch, can't believe I didn't see that XD
 

Related to Finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes

1. What is the purpose of finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes?

Finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes is important in solving problems related to three-dimensional geometry. It helps determine the relationship between three planes and find the location of a point or object in space.

2. How do you find the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes?

To find the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes, you need to first find the normal vectors of the two given planes. Then, use the cross product of the normal vectors to find the direction vector of the plane perpendicular to both planes. Finally, use a point on the plane and the direction vector to form the standard equation.

3. Can the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes be used to find the distance between the planes?

Yes, the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes can be used to find the distance between the planes. The distance between two parallel planes can be found by taking the absolute value of the constant term in the standard equation.

4. Is it possible for the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes to have a negative constant term?

Yes, it is possible for the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes to have a negative constant term. This indicates that the plane is located on the opposite side of the origin from the direction vector.

5. Are there any alternative methods for finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes?

Yes, there are other methods for finding the standard equation for a plane orthogonal to two other planes, such as using the dot product of the normal vectors and the distance formula. However, the cross product method is the most commonly used and is generally the most efficient.

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