Question:medium

If \[ \vec{a}=x\hat{i}+2\hat{j}-\hat{k}\quad (x>0) \] and \[ \vec{b}=2\hat{i}-\hat{j}+2\hat{k} \] are two vectors such that \[ |\vec{a}-2\vec{b}|=|2\vec{a}+\vec{b}|, \] then \(x=\)

Show Hint

Whenever magnitudes of vectors are equal, square both sides first: \[ |\vec{u}|=|\vec{v}| \Rightarrow |\vec{u}|^2=|\vec{v}|^2. \] This converts the problem into a simple algebraic equation without square roots.
Updated On: Jul 9, 2026
  • \(4\)
  • \(1\)
  • \(3\)
  • \(2\) \bigskip
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Use the square of the magnitude of a vector, \(|\vec{v}|^2 = \vec{v} \cdot \vec{v}\). Equate the squared magnitudes to avoid square roots, then solve the resulting quadratic equation.

Step 1:
Form the vectors \(\vec{a} - 2\vec{b}\) and \(2\vec{a} + \vec{b}\). Given \(\vec{a} = x\hat{i} + 2\hat{j} - \hat{k}\) and \(\vec{b} = 2\hat{i} - \hat{j} + 2\hat{k}\): \[ \vec{a} - 2\vec{b} = (x-4)\hat{i} + 4\hat{j} - 5\hat{k}, \quad 2\vec{a} + \vec{b} = (2x+2)\hat{i} + 3\hat{j} + 0\hat{k}. \]

Step 2:
Square the magnitudes and set them equal. \[ |\vec{a} - 2\vec{b}|^2 = (x-4)^2 + 4^2 + (-5)^2 = (x-4)^2 + 41, \] \[ |2\vec{a} + \vec{b}|^2 = (2x+2)^2 + 3^2 + 0^2 = 4(x+1)^2 + 9. \] Equating: \((x-4)^2 + 41 = 4(x+1)^2 + 9\).

Step 3:
Expand and simplify. \[ x^2 - 8x + 16 + 41 = 4(x^2 + 2x + 1) + 9 \implies x^2 - 8x + 57 = 4x^2 + 8x + 13. \] \[ 3x^2 + 16x - 44 = 0. \]

Step 4:
Factor and solve for positive \(x\). \[ 3x^2 + 22x - 6x - 44 = 0 \implies (3x+22)(x-2) = 0. \] Since \(x > 0\), \(x = 2\).

Step 5:
Write the final answer. \[ \boxed{2} \]
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