Question:medium

The sum of all real values of \(λ\) for which the vectors \(\overset{⃗}{a} = λ\hat{i}+\hat{j}+\hat{k}\), \(\overset{⃗}{b} = \hat{i}+λ\hat{j}+2\hat{k}\), \(\overset{⃗}{c} = 2\hat{i}+3\hat{j}+λ\hat{k}\) are coplanar is...

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Coplanar vectors have a zero scalar triple product; sum the real roots of the cubic.
Updated On: Oct 7, 2026
  • \(9\)
  • \(7\)
  • \(0\)
  • cant determine
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Cross Product:
$\vec b=(1,\lambda,2)$ and $\vec c=(2,3,\lambda)$. Then $\vec b\times\vec c=(\lambda\cdot\lambda-2\cdot3,\ 2\cdot2-1\cdot\lambda,\ 1\cdot3-\lambda\cdot2)=(\lambda^2-6,\ 4-\lambda,\ 3-2\lambda)$.

Step 2: Dot With a:
$\vec a\cdot(\vec b\times\vec c)=\lambda(\lambda^2-6)+(4-\lambda)+(3-2\lambda)=\lambda^3-9\lambda+7$. Coplanarity needs this to be zero.

Step 3: Vieta:
The cubic changes sign three times (values at -4, 0, 2, 3 are -21, 7, -3, 7), so all three roots are real. With no $\lambda^2$ term, their sum is 0. Option (C).

Final Answer:
Option (C). \[ \boxed{\text{(C) } 0} \]
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