Multivariable Calculus, 7th Edition

Published by Brooks Cole
ISBN 10: 0-53849-787-4
ISBN 13: 978-0-53849-787-9

Chapter 12 - Vectors and the Geometry of Space - 12.5 Exercises - Page 850: 82

Answer

(a) $x+y+z=c$ This is the family of planes that have normal vectors parallel to $ \lt 1,1,1\gt$. The distance from the plane to the origin varies by changing the value of $c$. For positive c values, the planes intersect to form an equilateral triangle in the first octant. For negative c values, the equilateral triangle is formed with the octant opposite the first. (b) $x+y+cz=1$ This is the family of planes that intercects the $xy$-plane at the 2D line $x+y=1$. With $c=0$, the plane is parallel to the z-axis. For larger $c$ values, the plane moves closer to the xy-plane. (c) $y cos \theta+zsin \theta=1$ Because there is no $x$, the planes will be parallel to the $x-$ axis. These lines are basically tangent lines to a circle of radius $1$. So, the planes are tangent lines to a circle of radius $1$ on the $yz$ plane extended in the direction parallel to the $x-axis$.

Work Step by Step

(a) $x+y+z=c$ This is the family of planes that have normal vectors parallel to $ \lt 1,1,1\gt$. The distance from the plane to the origin varies by changing the value of $c$. For positive c values, the planes intersect to form an equilateral triangle in the first octant. For negative c values, the equilateral triangle is formed with the octant opposite the first. (b) $x+y+cz=1$ This is the family of planes that intercects the $xy$-plane at the 2D line $x+y=1$. With $c=0$, the plane is parallel to the z-axis. For larger $c$ values, the plane moves closer to the xy-plane. (c) $y cos \theta+zsin \theta=1$ Because there is no $x$, the planes will be parallel to the $x-$ axis. These lines are basically tangent lines to a circle of radius $1$. So, the planes are tangent lines to a circle of radius $1$ on the $yz$ plane extended in the direction parallel to the $x-axis$.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.