Skip to main contentSkip to solution

The value of λ\lambda, for which the two vectors 2i^−j^+2k^2\hat{i} - \hat{j} + 2\hat{k} and 3i⃗+λj⃗+k^3\vec{i} + \lambda\vec{j} + \hat{k} are perpendicular, is:

Solution

✅ Correct Option: 2

Two vectors are perpendicular when their dot product equals zero.

A⃗⋅B⃗=0\vec{A} \cdot \vec{B} = 0


A⃗=2i^−j^+2k^\vec{A} = 2\hat{i} - \hat{j} + 2\hat{k}

B⃗=3i^+λj^+k^\vec{B} = 3\hat{i} + \lambda\hat{j} + \hat{k}

The dot product is found by multiplying matching components and adding them:

A⃗⋅B⃗=(a1×b1)+(a2×b2)+(a3×b3)\vec{A} \cdot \vec{B} = (a_1 \times b_1) + (a_2 \times b_2) + (a_3 \times b_3)

=(2)(3)+(−1)(λ)+(2)(1)= (2)(3) + (-1)(\lambda) + (2)(1)

=6−λ+2= 6 - \lambda + 2

=8−λ= 8 - \lambda


Since the vectors are perpendicular:

8−λ=08 - \lambda = 0

λ=8\lambda = 8

Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Left arrow: Previous question
  • Right arrow: Next question
  • S key: Jump to solution
  • Q key: Jump to question