Find the normal form of the equation?

In summary, the normal form of the equation of the plane containing point P=(0,1,0) with normal vector n=[3,2,1] is 3x+2y+z=2. This is achieved by setting the constant c to the dot product of the normal vector and the given point, ensuring that the point is in the plane and its orientation is maintained.
  • #1
Math9999

Homework Statement


Find the normal form of the equation of the plane that contains the point P=(0, 1, 0) and has normal vector n=[3, 2, 1].

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that the general form: ax+by=c since that's written in my textbook. But why is the answer 3x+2y+z=2? I know that a=3, b=2 and c=1 based on the normal vector, but how did they get the 2 on the other side?
 
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  • #2
The equation ##\vec{n} \cdot \vec{x} = 3x+2y+z## gives a plane through the origin with the given normal vector. But we are looking for a parallel plane of it, which contains the given point ##\vec{p}##. So parallel means ##3x+2y+z=c## for some constant ##c##. Now what does it mean for ##c##, that ##\vec{p}=(0,1,0)## satisfies this equation?
 
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  • #3
So you're saying that c=n*p where 3*0+2*1+1*0=2, and c=2?
 
  • #4
Yep. This way you make sure that the point is in the plane and it's orientation in space isn't changed.
 
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  • #5
Thank you!
 

Related to Find the normal form of the equation?

1. What is the normal form of an equation?

The normal form of an equation is a way of representing a mathematical equation in a standard, simplified format. It typically involves rearranging terms and coefficients so that the equation follows a specific pattern.

2. Why is it important to find the normal form of an equation?

Finding the normal form of an equation can help make it easier to solve and understand. It can also reveal important characteristics of the equation, such as its degree or the type of curve it represents.

3. How do you find the normal form of an equation?

The process of finding the normal form of an equation varies depending on the type of equation. Generally, it involves simplifying terms, grouping like terms, and rearranging the equation to follow a specific pattern. It may also involve factoring or completing the square.

4. What are some common normal forms for different types of equations?

Some common normal forms include the standard form for linear equations (Ax + By = C), the vertex form for quadratic equations (y = a(x-h)^2 + k), and the general form for circular equations (x^2 + y^2 + Dx + Ey + F = 0).

5. Can there be multiple normal forms for the same equation?

Yes, depending on the type of equation and the approach used to find the normal form, there can be multiple ways to represent an equation in its normal form. However, all of these forms should convey the same information and be equivalent in terms of solving the equation.

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