← Senior Mathematics Studio

LEARN · EXPLAIN · REVISE

Find λ so that the third vector lies in the plane spanned by the first two.

Read the idea, work independently, then explain what changed.

TOPIC 01

Space vectors and solid geometry: mixed review

A mixed assessment: identify the method, justify it and revise your reasoning.

What you will be able to explain

  • Connect the chapter skills without relying on the order of the exercises.

Try it. Leave your reasoning visible.

Use one hint at a time. A correction explains what changed, not just the final answer.

01 / Standard#Your turn

Find λ so that the third vector lies in the plane spanned by the first two.

a=(1,0,0), b=(0,1,0), c=(29,2,λ)a=(1,0,0),\ b=(0,1,0),\ c=(29,2,\lambda)
  • A basis must be independent. Weights representing a point in a plane sum to one.
Skills and prerequisite lessons

Working and explanation

BUILD THE REASONING

Hint 1
Use vector components and the distributive laws.
Hint 2
Use this intermediate relation.
c=xa+ybc=xa+yb
Worked solution
  1. Use vector components and the distributive laws.

  2. Apply the stated relation and retain its conditions.

    c=(x,y,0)⇒λ=0c=(x,y,0)\Rightarrow\lambda=0
  3. The plane spanned by a and b has zero third coordinate.

The requested value is 0.

Checks and common pitfalls: The plane spanned by a and b has zero third coordinate.

Think first. Reveal a hint when the class is ready.

Focus on one question

Teacher preparation and assessment

Question sequence

  • Ask students to name the relevant condition before calculating.

Board plan

  • Compare valid methods and annotate their conditions.

Anticipated thinking

  • A correct final value may still hide a missing assumption.

Assessment checklist

  • Check the method, conditions, reasoning and interpretation separately.

No sign-in. Work stays in this browser. Export before clearing browser data. Written reasoning is assessed with a checklist.

Curriculum and source notes ↗