Determine whether a set of points lie on the same plane

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of coplanarity and how it applies to vectors and points in a three-dimensional space. The conditions for coplanarity are mentioned, as well as the confusion that arises when considering four points in space. It is noted that if the points are coplanar, then the vectors must also be coplanar, but there is a contradiction in the given example. However, upon closer inspection, it is found that there was a sign error in one of the vectors, leading to a non-zero determinant and resolving the contradiction.
  • #1
LCSphysicist
646
161
Homework Statement
All below
Relevant Equations
All below
1594693398811.png

AB, AB, AD are Ld, that is, the three vectors lie on the same plane, so, "yes, the points lie on the same plane"
However,
AB CB and AD are Li, that is, the three vectors span the space R3, and don't lie in the same plane, so, how can four points that lie on the same plane, that can generate only vectors that lie on the plane, generate a space?
 

Attachments

  • 1594693228803.png
    1594693228803.png
    4.7 KB · Views: 180
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Any three points, say A,B and C, are on the same plane, say P. Is the fourth one, D, is also on the plane P?
If the vectors satisfy the conditions you mentioned, yes it is.
 
  • Like
Likes LCSphysicist
  • #3
anuttarasammyak said:
Any three points, say A,B and C, are on the same plane, say P. Is the fourth one, D, is also on the plane P?
If the vectors satisfy the conditions you mentioned, yes it is.
AB AD AC are LD, but AB CB and AD not!

But if A B C D are coplanar, AB CB and AD would need to lie in the plane too!

It are contradictory, no?
 
  • #4
In the solution, there's a sign error in ##\vec b##. Once you fix that, the determinant ends up not vanishing.
 
  • Like
  • Informative
Likes epenguin, anuttarasammyak and LCSphysicist

Related to Determine whether a set of points lie on the same plane

1. How do you determine if a set of points lie on the same plane?

To determine if a set of points lie on the same plane, you can use the slope formula or the distance formula to calculate the distance between each point. If the distances are equal, then the points are on the same plane.

2. Can a set of points lie on the same plane if they are not in a straight line?

Yes, a set of points can lie on the same plane even if they are not in a straight line. As long as the distances between each point are equal, they are considered to be on the same plane.

3. How many points are needed to determine if they lie on the same plane?

At least three non-collinear points are needed to determine if they lie on the same plane. If there are less than three points, they are automatically on the same plane since there is only one possible plane that can contain them.

4. Can a set of points lie on the same plane in three-dimensional space?

Yes, a set of points can lie on the same plane in three-dimensional space. The same rules apply as in two-dimensional space, where the distances between each point must be equal.

5. What is the significance of determining if a set of points lie on the same plane?

Determining if a set of points lie on the same plane is important in various fields such as mathematics, physics, and engineering. It helps in understanding the spatial relationships between objects and can be used to solve problems involving distance and direction.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
821
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Precalculus Mathematics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
688
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
522
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
988
Replies
26
Views
2K
Back
Top