Question:hard

Lines \(\overset{⃗}{r} = \overset{⃗}{a}+λ\overset{⃗}{b}\) and \(\overset{⃗}{r} = \overset{⃗}{b}+μ\overset{⃗}{a}\) intersect at point \((2,4,-4)\). If \(|\overset{⃗}{a}-\overset{⃗}{b}| = 4\), then \(\overset{⃗}{a}\cdot \overset{⃗}{b} =\)

Show Hint

At the intersection a + lambda b equals b + mu a, which forces lambda and mu to be 1 for non-parallel vectors.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • \(5\)
  • \(10\)
  • \(-5\)
  • \(-10\)
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Approach
Expand the squares of the sum and the difference.

Step 2: Sum and difference
Since the lines meet at $\vec a+\vec b$ (with both parameters equal to 1), $|\vec a|^2+|\vec b|^2+2\vec a\cdot\vec b=36$ and $|\vec a|^2+|\vec b|^2-2\vec a\cdot\vec b=16$.

Step 3: Subtract
$4\,\vec a\cdot\vec b=20$, so $\vec a\cdot\vec b=5$.

Step 4: Check
Adding gives $|\vec a|^2+|\vec b|^2=26$, a consistent positive value. So (A).

Final Answer:
The intersection point is a + b, so the squares of the sum and difference give a dot b = 5, option (A). \[ \boxed{5} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0