Vector Previous Years Questions

Based on Unit Vector

1. Write a unit vector in the direction of vector ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

𝑃𝑄 , where P and Q are the points (1, 3, 0)
and (4, 5, 6) respectively.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑂𝑄
We have, 𝑃𝑄 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ − 𝑂𝑃
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

= (4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ + 6𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ) = 3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 6𝑘ˆ

3𝑖ˆ+2𝑗ˆ+6𝑘ˆ 3𝑖ˆ+2𝑗ˆ+6𝑘ˆ
Requiredunit vector = =
√32 +22 +62 7

3
2. Find a unit vector in the direction opposite to − 4 𝑗̂.

[CBSE SQP 2020-21]

Solution

3
Let 𝑎 be the unit vector in the direction opposite to the given vector (− 4 𝑗ˆ).
−1 3
Then, 𝑎 = 2
(− 4 𝑗ˆ) = 𝑗ˆ
√(3)
4

Based on Finding Unit Vector along a Vector

3. Find the unit vector in the direction of the sum of the vectors 2𝑖̂ + 3𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ and 4𝑖̂ − 3𝑗̂ +
2𝑘̂.
[CBSE 2015]
Solution

Let 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 4𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ. Then, the sum of the given vectors is

𝑐 = 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = (2 + 4)𝑖ˆ + (3 − 3)𝑗ˆ + (−1 + 2)𝑘ˆ = 6𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

and |𝑐| = |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = √62 + 12 = √36 + 1 = √37

𝑐 6𝑖ˆ+𝑘ˆ 6 1
∴ Unit vector, 𝑐ˆ = |𝑐| = = 𝑖ˆ + 37 𝑘ˆ
√37 √37 √

1
4. Write a unit vector in the direction of the sum of the vectors 𝑎 = 2𝑖̂ − 5𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ −
4𝑗̂ + 5𝑘̂.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

We have, 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 7𝑘ˆ

Sum of the given vectors is

𝑐 = 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = (2 + 2)𝑖ˆ + (0 − 4)𝑗ˆ + (−5 + 5)𝑘ˆ = 4𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ

and |𝑐| = √(4)2 + (−4)2 = √32 = 4√2

𝑐 4𝑖ˆ−4𝑗ˆ
∴ Unit vector, 𝑐ˆ = =
|𝑐 | 4√2

Based on Finding Vector along a Vector if Magnitude is given

5. Find a vector in the direction of 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ − 2𝑗̂ that has magnitude 7 units.

[CBSE 2015C]
Solution

A unit vector in the direction of 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ is

𝑎
𝑎ˆ =
|𝑎|
𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ 1
= = (𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ)
√12 + (−2)2 √5

7
∴ The required vector of magnitude 7 in the direction of 𝑎 = 7 ⋅ 𝑎ˆ = (𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ).
√5

6. Find a vector in the direction of vector 2𝑖̂ − 3𝑗̂ + 6𝑘̂ which has magnitude 21 units.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

Let 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 6𝑘ˆ.

The vector in the direction of 𝑎 with a magnitude of 21 = 21 units × 𝑎ˆ

2𝑖ˆ−3𝑗ˆ+6𝑘ˆ
∴ Required vector = 21 ×
√22 +(−3)2 +62

2
 2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 6𝑘ˆ
= 21 × = 6𝑖ˆ − 9𝑗ˆ + 18𝑘ˆ
7

Based on Direction Ratio and Direction Cosine

7. Write the direction ratios of the vector 3𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗ where 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 2𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ − 4𝑗̂ +
5𝑘̂.
[CBSE 2015C]
Solution

. 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ ; 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ

∴ 3𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗ = 3(𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ ) + 2(2𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ )
= (3𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 6𝑘ˆ ) + (4𝑖ˆ − 8𝑗ˆ + 10𝑘ˆ ) = 7𝑖ˆ − 5𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ
∴ The direction ratios of the vector 3𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗ are 7, −5,4.

8. Write the value of cosine of the angle which the vector 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ makes with y-axis.
[CBSE 2014C]
Solution

Let 𝜃 be the angle between the vector 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑦-axisi.e., 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗ˆ

𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
∴ cos 𝜃 =
|𝑎||𝑏⃗|
(𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )𝑗ˆ 1 1
= = =
|𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ||𝑗ˆ| √12 + 12 + 12 √12 √3

9. Find the angle between x-axis and the vector 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ .

[CBSE 2014C]
Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and vector along 𝑥-axis is 𝑖ˆ.

∴ Angle between 𝑎 and 𝑖ˆ is given by
𝑎 ⋅ 𝑖ˆ (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ 𝑖ˆ 1
cos 𝜃 = = =
√12 + 12 + 12 ⋅ √12 √3 ⋅ 1 √3
1
⇒ 𝜃 = cos−1 ( )
√3

3
 Based on Finding a vector if angles are given with x axis ,y axis and z axis

𝜋 𝜋
10. Find a vector 𝑎 of magnitude 5√2, making an angle of 4 with x-axis, 2 with y-axis and an

acute angle θ with z-axis.

[CBSE 2014]
Solution

𝜋 1 𝜋
Here, 𝑙 = cos 4
= ,𝑚 = cos = 0,
√2 2

𝑛 = cos 𝜃

Since, 𝑙 2 + 𝑚2 + 𝑛2 = 1
1 1 1
⇒ + 0 + cos2 𝜃 = 1 ⇒ cos2 𝜃 = 1 − =
2 2 2
1 𝜋
⇒ cos 𝜃 = ⇒𝜃=
√2 4

∴ The vector of magnitude 5√2 is

𝑎 = 5√2(𝑙𝑖ˆ + 𝑚𝑗ˆ + 𝑛𝑘ˆ )

1 1
= 5√2 ( 𝑖ˆ + 0𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) = 5(𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )
√2 √2

[∵ 𝜃 is an acute angle ]

𝜋 𝜋
11. If a unit vector 𝑎 makes angles 3 with, 𝑖̂, 4 with 𝑗̂ and an acute angle θ with 𝑘̂, then find

the value of θ.
[CBSE 2013]
Solution

𝜋 1 𝜋 1
𝑙 = cos = , 𝑚 = cos = and 𝑛 = cos 𝜃
3 2 4 √2
2 2 2
Now, 𝑙 + 𝑚 + 𝑛 = 1
1 2 1 2
⇒ ( ) + ( ) + 𝑛2 = 1
2 √2
1 1 1 1
⇒ + + 𝑛2 = 1 ⇒ 𝑛2 = ⇒ 𝑛 = ±
4 2 4 2
1
⇒ cos 𝜃 = ±
2
But 𝜃 is an acute angle (given).
1 𝜋
∴ 𝜃 = cos−1 ( ) =
2 3

4
 Based on Section Formula

12. Find the position vector of a point which divides the join of points with position vectors
𝑎 − 2𝑏⃗ and 2𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ externally in the ratio 2 : 1.
[CBSE 2016]
Solution

Required position vector

2 ⋅ (2𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) − 1(𝑎 − 2𝑏⃗) 4𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗ − 𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗
= = = 3𝑎 + 4𝑏⃗
2−1 1

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 2𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ and 𝑂𝐵

13. The position vector of two points A and B are 𝑂𝐴 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 2𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 2𝑘̂,
respectively.
The position vector of a point P which divides the line segment joining A and B in the
ratio 2 : 1 is________.
[CBSE 2020]
Solution

Required position vector of point 𝑃

1(2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) + 2(2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ )

=
2+1
2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ + 4𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ
=
3
1
= (6𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ ) = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
3

Based on Equal Vectors

14. If 𝑎 = 𝑥𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ − 𝑧𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 3𝑖̂ − 𝑦𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ are two equal vectors, then write the value of x
+ y + z.
[CBSE 2013]
Solution

5
. Given, 𝑎 = 𝑏⃗
⇒ 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑧𝑘ˆ = 3𝑖ˆ − 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
∴ 𝑥 = 3, 𝑦 = −2, 𝑧 = −1
Hence, the value of 𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑧 = 0

Based on Scalar or Dot Product Formula

15. If θ is the angle between two vectors 𝑖̂ − 2𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂ and 3𝑖̂ − 2𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, find sin θ.
[CBSE 2018]
Solution

Let 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 3𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

Now, 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = |𝑎||𝑏⃗|cos 𝜃

⇒ (𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (3𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )

= √(1)2 + (−2)2 + (3)2 × √(3)2 + (−2)2 + (1)2 cos 𝜃
⇒ 3 + 4 + 3 = √14 × √14cos 𝜃
10
⇒ cos 𝜃 =
14

100 96
∴ sin 𝜃 = √1 − cos 2 𝜃 = √1 − =√
196 196
4√6 2√6
⇒ sin 𝜃 = =
14 7

16. Find the magnitude of each of the two vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗, having the same magnitude such
9
that the angle between them is 60° and their scalar product is 2.

[CBSE 2018]
Solution

9
Given, |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗|, 𝜃 = 60∘ and 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 2
⃗
𝑎⃗ ⋅𝑏
Now, cos 𝜃 = ⃗|
|𝑎⃗ ||𝑏
9/2 1 9/2
⇒ cos 60∘ = ⇒ =
|𝑎|2 2 |𝑎|2
⇒ |𝑎|2 = 9 ⇒ |𝑎| = 3 ∴ |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗| = 3

17. Find |𝑥|, if for a unit vector 𝑎 , (𝑥 − 𝑎). (𝑥 + 𝑎 ) = 15

6
 [CBSE 2013]
Solution

Here (𝑥 − 𝑎) ⋅ (𝑥 + 𝑎) = 15, where 𝑎 is unit vector.

⇒ 𝑥 ⋅ 𝑥 + 𝑥 ⋅ 𝑎 − 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑥 − 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 = 15
⇒ |𝑥 |2 − |𝑎|2 = 15 (∵ 𝑥 ⋅ 𝑎 = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑥 )
⇒ |𝑥 |2 − 1 = 15 (∵ |𝑎| = 1)
⇒ |𝑥 |2 = 16 = 42 ⇒ |𝑥 | = 4

18. The scalar product of the vector 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ with a unit vector along the sum of vectors
𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ + 4𝑗̂ − 5𝑘̂ and 𝑐 = 𝜆𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂ is equal to one. Find the value of λ and hence
find the unit vector along 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐.
[CBSE 2014]

Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ and

𝑐 = 𝜆𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ
⇒ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = (2 + 𝜆)𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ

⃗ +𝑐
𝑏
The unit vector along 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 is 𝑝 = ⃗ +𝑐|
|𝑏

(2 + 𝜆)𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ (2 + 𝜆)𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ

= =
√(2 + 𝜆)2 + 62 + (−2)2 √𝜆2 + 4𝜆 + 44

Also, 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑝 = 1 (Given)

(2 + 𝜆) + 6 − 2
⇒ =1
√𝜆2 + 4𝜆 + 44
⇒ √𝜆2 + 4𝜆 + 44 = 𝜆 + 6
⇒ 𝜆2 + 4𝜆 + 44 = 𝜆2 + 12𝜆 + 36
⇒ 8𝜆 = 8 ⇒ 𝜆 = 1

∴ The required unit vector

(2 + 1)𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ 1

𝑝= = (3𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ ).
√1 + 4 + 44 7

7
19. Dot product of a vector with vectors 𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 2𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 3𝑘̂ and 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ are respectively
4, 0 and 2. Find the vector.
[CBSE 2013C]

Solution

Let the required vector be 𝑟 = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ.

Also, let
Giving, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ and 𝑐 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
𝑟 ⋅ 𝑎 = 4, 𝑟 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 and 𝑟 ⋅ 𝑐 = 2

⇒ 𝑥 − 𝑦 + 𝑧 = 4,
2𝑥 + 𝑦 − 3𝑧 = 0
𝑥+𝑦+𝑧 =2

Now (iii) - (i) ⇒ 2𝑦 = −2 ⇒ 𝑦 = −1

Solving (ii) and (iii),
we get 𝑥 = 2, 𝑧 = 1
∴ The required vector is 𝑟 = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ .

Based on Parallel and Perpendicular Vectors

20. Find the value of 'p' for which the vectors 3𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ + 9𝑘̂ and 𝑖̂ − 2𝑝𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂ are parallel.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

. Let 𝑎 = 3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 9𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖ˆ − 2𝑝𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ

For 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ to be parallel, 𝑏⃗ = 𝜆𝑎.
⇒ 𝑖ˆ − 2𝑝𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ = 𝜆(3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 9𝑘ˆ ) = 3𝜆𝑖ˆ + 2𝜆𝑗ˆ + 9𝜆𝑘ˆ
⇒ 1 = 3𝜆, −2𝑝 = 2𝜆, 3 = 9𝜆
1 1
⇒ 𝜆 = 3 and 𝑝 = −𝜆 = − 3

21. The value of λ for which the vectors 2𝑖̂ − 𝜆𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ are orthogonal
is_______.
[CBSE 2020]
Solution

8
Let 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝜆𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
We know, 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are orthogonal iff 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0
⇒ (2𝑖ˆ − 𝜆𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) = 0
1
⇒ 2 − 2𝜆 − 1 = 0 ⇒ 1 − 2𝜆 = 0 ⇒ 𝜆 =
2

22. Let 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ − 3𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 3𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 2𝑘̂ be two vectors. Show that the vectors (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗)

and (𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) are perpendicular to each other.

[CBSE 2019]

Solution

. Given, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ

Now, 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = 4𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
Also, 𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ = −2𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ
Now, (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) = (4𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (−2𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )

= (4)(−2) + (1)(3) + (−1)(−5) = −8 + 3 + 5 = 0

Hence, (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) and (𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) are perpendicular to each other.

23. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are two vectors such that |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑎|, then prove that vector 2𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ is

perpendicular to 𝑏⃗
[CBSE 2013]
Solution

Here |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑎|

⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = |𝑎|2
⇒ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎
⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎
⇒ 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 [∵ 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗]
⇒ (2𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 ⇒ (2𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⊥ 𝑏⃗

Based on Projection

24. If 𝑎 = 7𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 4𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ + 6𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂, then find the projection of 𝑎 on 𝑏⃗.

9
 [CBSE 2015, 2013C]
Solution

𝑎⃗ ⋅𝑏⃗
Projection of 𝑎 on 𝑏⃗ = ⃗
|𝑏|

(7𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 4𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (2𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ ) 14 + 6 − 12 8

= = =
√(2)2 + (6)2 + (3)2 7 7

25. Write the projection of 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 on 𝑎, where 𝑎 = 2𝑖̂ − 2𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ − 2𝑘̂ and 2𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ +
4𝑘̂.
[CBSE 2013C]
Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

𝑏⃗ = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ and 𝑐 = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ
⇒ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = 3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ

⃗ +𝑐 )⋅𝑎⃗
(𝑏
∴ Projection of 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 on 𝑎 =
|𝑎⃗ |
(3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (2𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )
=
|2𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ |

3 × 2 + 1 × (−2) + 2 × 1 6
= = =2
√22 + (−2)2 + 12 3

Based on 𝒂 ⃗ +𝒃
⃗ .𝒃 ⃗ .𝒄
⃗ +𝒄
⃗.𝒂
⃗.

26. If 𝑎, 𝑏⃗, 𝑐 are unit vectors such that 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = ⃗0, then write the value of 𝑎. 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗. 𝑐 +
𝑐 . 𝑎.
[CBSE 2016]
Solution

We have 𝑎, 𝑏⃗, 𝑐 are unit vectors.

Therefore, |𝑎| = 1, |𝑏⃗| = 1 and |𝑐| = 1

10
Also, 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = ⃗0
(given)
⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐|2 = 0

⇒ |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + |𝑐|2 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0

⇒ 1 + 1 + 1 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0
⇒ 3 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0
3
⇒ (𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = −
2

27. If 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = 0 and |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 5, |𝑐 | = 7, then find the value of 𝑎. 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗. 𝑐 + 𝑐 . 𝑎 .

[CBSE 2019-20]
Solution

We have,
(𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) = 0 [∵ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = 0]
⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑐 = 0
(1)
⇒ |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + |𝑐|2 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0
⇒ 32 + 52 + 72 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0
⇒ 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = −(9 + 25 + 49)
83
⇒ (𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = −
2

Based on Magnitude

28. If 𝑎̂, 𝑏̂ and 𝑐̂ are mutually perpendicular unit vectors, then find the value of |2𝑎̂ + 𝑏̂ + 𝑐̂ |.
[CBSE 2015]
Solution

Here 𝑎ˆ, 𝑏ˆ and 𝑐ˆ are mutually perpendicular unit vectors.

⇒ |𝑎ˆ| = |𝑏ˆ| = |𝑐ˆ| = 1 and 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ = 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ = 0
∴ |2𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ + 𝑐ˆ|2 = (2𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ + 𝑐ˆ) ⋅ (2𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ + 𝑐ˆ)
= 4𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ + 2𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 2𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ + 2𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ + 2𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ
+ 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ
= 4|𝑎ˆ|2 + |𝑏ˆ|2 + |𝑐ˆ|2 + 4𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 2𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ + 4𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ

(∵ 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ = 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ, 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ = 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ, 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ)

11
 = 4 ⋅ 12 + 1 2 + 12
=6
∴ |2𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ + 𝑐ˆ| = √6.

29. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are perpendicular vectors, |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = 13 and |𝑎| = 5, find the value of |𝑏⃗|.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

Given: 𝑎 ⊥ 𝑏⃗ ⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0
Also, |𝑎| = 5 and |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = 13

⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = 132 ⇒ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) = 169

⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 169
⇒ |𝑎|2 + 0 + 0 + |𝑏⃗|2 = 169
⇒ |𝑏⃗|2 = 169 − |𝑎|2 = 169 − 52 = 144
⇒ |𝑏⃗| = 12

30. If 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 are three vectors such that each one is perpendicular to the vector obtained
by sum of the other two and |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 4 and |𝑐 | = 5, then prove that |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 | =
5√2.
[CBSE 2013C]
Solution

Given, |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 4, |𝑐 | = 5

and 𝑎 ⋅ (𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) = 0, 𝑏⃗ ⋅ (𝑐 + 𝑎) = 0, 𝑐 ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) = 0

∴ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
=0+0+0=0

⇒ 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗) + 2(𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐) + 2(𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎) = 0

Now |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐|2 = (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐)

= (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) ⋅ 𝑎 + (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) ⋅ 𝑐

= 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑐
= |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + |𝑐|2 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗) + 2(𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 ) + 2(𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎)
= 32 + 42 + 52 + 0

= 50
∴ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐| = 5√2.

12
 Based on Angles if Magnitude is given
31. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are unit vectors, then find the angle between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗, given that (√3𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) is a
unit vector.
[CBSE 2014C]
Solution

Let 𝜃 be the angle between the unit vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗

𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
∴ cos 𝜃 = = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
⃗
|𝑎||𝑏|
... (i) (∵ |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗| = 1)
Now, |√3𝑎 − 𝑏⃗| = 1
⇒ |√3𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|2 = 1
⇒ 3|𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 − 2√3𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 1
⇒ 3 + 1 − 2√3|𝑎| − |𝑏⃗| − cos 𝜃 = 1
√3
⇒ 3 = 2√3cos 𝜃 ⇒ cos 𝜃 =
2
𝜋
⇒ 𝜃=
6

32. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are unit vectors, then what is the angle between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ so that √2 𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ is a
unit vector?
[CBSE 2015C]

Solution

Let 𝜃 be the angle between the unit vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗.

𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
∴ cos 𝜃 = = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ (∵ |𝑎| = 1 = |𝑏⃗|)
|𝑎||𝑏⃗|

Now, 1 = |√2𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|

⇒ 1 = |√2𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|2 = (√2𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (

= 2|𝑎|2 − √2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ − 𝑏⃗ ⋅ √2𝑎 + |𝑏⃗|2
= 2 − 2√2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 1
= 3 − 2√2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
1 1
⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = ⇒ cos 𝜃 =
√2 √2
∴ 𝜃 = 𝜋/4

13
 (∵ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎)

33. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are two unit vectors such that 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ is also a unit vector, then find the angle
between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗.
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

Given |𝑎| = 1 = |𝑏⃗|, |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = 1

⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = 1 ⇒ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) = 1
⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 1
⇒ |𝑎|2 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + |𝑏⃗|2 = 1 ⇒ 1 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ + 1 = 1
⇒ 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = −1 ⇒ 2|𝑎| ⋅ |𝑏⃗|cos 𝜃 = −1
⇒ 2 ⋅ 1 ⋅ 1cos 𝜃 = −1
1
⇒ cos 𝜃 = − ⇒ 𝜃 = 120∘
2

34. Vectors 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 are such that 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = ⃗0 and |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 5 and |𝑐 | = 7. Find the

angle between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗.

[CBSE 2014]

Solution

Given 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = 0 and |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 5, |𝑐| = 7

We have 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = 0
⇒ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = −𝑐 ⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = | − 𝑐|2
⇒ |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗) = |𝑐|2
⇒ 9 + 25 + 2|𝑎||𝑏⃗|cos 𝜃 = 49
⇒ 2 × 3 × 5 × cos 𝜃 = 49 − 34 = 15
15 1 𝜋
⇒ cos 𝜃 = = ⇒ 𝜃 = = 60∘
30 2 3

Based on Cross Product

35. Write the value of 𝑖̂ × (𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂) + 𝑗̂ × (𝑘̂ + 𝑖̂) + 𝑘̂ × (𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂).
[CBSE 2014]
Solution

14
 We have,
𝑖ˆ × (𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) + 𝑗ˆ × (𝑘ˆ + 𝑖ˆ) + 𝑘ˆ × (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ)
= 𝑖ˆ × 𝑗ˆ + 𝑖ˆ × 𝑘ˆ + 𝑗ˆ × 𝑘ˆ + 𝑗ˆ × 𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ × 𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ × 𝑗ˆ
= 𝑘ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑖ˆ − 𝑘ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 𝑖ˆ = ⃗0.

36. If |𝑎| = 8, |𝑏⃗| = 3 and |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| = 12, find the angle between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗,
[CBSE 2014C]

Solution

Let angle between the vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ be 𝜃.

Given: |𝑎| = 8, |𝑏⃗| = 3 and |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| = 12
⇒ |𝑎| ⋅ |𝑏⃗| ⋅ |sin 𝜃| = 12 ⇒ 8 × 3 × sin 𝜃 = 12
12 1 𝜋
⇒ sin 𝜃 = 24 = 2 ⇒ 𝜃 = 6 .

2
37. If vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are such that, |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 3 and 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ is a unit vector, then write the

angle between 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗.

[CBSE 2014]
Solution

2
Given, |𝑎| = 3, |𝑏⃗| = 3 and |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| = 1
2
⇒ |𝑎|𝑏⃗ ∣ sin 𝜃 = 1 ⇒ 3 ⋅ sin 𝜃 = 1
3

1 𝜋
⇒ sin 𝜃 = ⇒𝜃=
2 6

Based on Area of Triangles and Parallelogram

38. Find the area of a parallelogram whose adjacent sides are represented by the vectors 2𝑖̂ −
3𝑘̂ and 4𝑗̂ + 2𝑘̂.
[CBSE 2015]
Solution

15
Let 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 4𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ
The area of a parallelogram with 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ as its adjacent
sides is given by |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗|.

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
𝑎 × 𝑏 = |2 0 −3| = 12𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ + 8𝑘ˆ
⃗
Now, 0 4 2
⃗
∴ |𝑎 × 𝑏| = √(12)2 + (−4)2 + (8)2 = √144 + 16 + 64
= √224 = 4√14 sq. units.

39. The area of the parallelogram whose diagonals are 2𝑖̂ and −3𝑘̂ is_______ square units.
[CBSE 2020]
Solution

Given, two diagonals 𝑑1 and 𝑑2 are 2𝑖ˆ and −3𝑘ˆ respectively.

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
∴ 𝑑‾1 × 𝑑‾2 = |2 0 0 | = 𝑖ˆ(0) − 𝑗ˆ(−6 − 0) + 𝑘ˆ (0) = 6𝑗ˆ
0 0 −3
1 1
So, area of the parallelogram = 2 |𝑑1 × 𝑑2 | = 2 × 6 = 3 sq. units

40. Using vectors, find the area of the triangle ABC with vertices A(1, 2, 3), B(2, -1, 4) and
C(4, 5, -1)
[CBSE 2020, 2013]
Solution

Given, △ 𝐴𝐵𝐶 with vertices

𝐴(1,2,3) = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ , 𝐵(2, −1,4) = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ ,

𝐶(4,5, −1) = 4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
Now 𝐴𝐵⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑂𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ )
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ − 𝑂𝐴
= 𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐶 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ 𝑂𝐴 = (4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ )
𝑂𝐶 − ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
= 3𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 4𝑘ˆ .

Now ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ 𝑂𝐴 = (2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ )
𝑂𝐵 − ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
= 𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ .
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = 𝑂𝐶
𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ )
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ − 𝑂𝐴
= 3𝑖ˆ + 3𝑗ˆ − 4𝑘ˆ.

16
 𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ × 𝐴𝐶
∴ (𝐴𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ) = |1 −3 1 | = 9𝑖ˆ + 7𝑗ˆ + 12
3 3 −4
1
Hence, area of △ 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = 2 |𝐴𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ × ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐶 |
1
= |9𝑖ˆ + 7𝑗ˆ + 12𝑘ˆ |
2
1 1
= √92 + 72 + 122 = √81 + 49 + 144
2 2
1
= 2 √274 sq. units

41. Find the area of the parallelogram whose one side and a diagonal are represented by
coinitial vectors 𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 4𝑖̂ + 5𝑘̂ respectively.
[CBSE 2020-21]
Solution

𝐴𝐵 = 𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑏⃗ = ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
Let 𝐴𝐵𝐶𝐷 is a parallelogram such that 𝑎 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ 𝐴𝐶 = 4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ.
𝐵𝐶 and 𝑑 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

Now, 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = 𝑑 (By triangle law) ⇒ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑑 − 𝑎

⇒ 𝑏⃗ = (4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ ) − (𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )
= 3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
Now, 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = |1 −1 1| = −5𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ
3 1 4

∴ Area of parallelogram = |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| = √25 + 1 + 16 = √42 sq. units

17
42. The two adjacent sides of a parallelogram are 2𝑖̂ − 4𝑗̂ − 5𝑘̂ and 2𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂ . Find the
two unit vectors parallel to its diagonals vectors, find the area of the parallelogram.
[CBSE 2016]

Solution

Let 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ

Then diagonal 𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ of the parallelogram is

𝑝 = 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗
= 2𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ + 2𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ = 4𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ
Therefore, unit vector parallel to it is
𝑝 4𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
= =
|𝑝| √16 + 4 + 4 √6
Now, diagonal 𝐵𝐷 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ of the parallelogram is

𝑝′ = 𝑏⃗ − 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ − 2𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ = 6𝑗ˆ + 8𝑘ˆ

Therefore, unit vector parallel to it is

𝑝′ 6𝑗ˆ + 8𝑘ˆ 6𝑗ˆ + 8𝑘ˆ 3𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ

= = =
|𝑝′ | √36 + 64 10 5

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
Now, 𝑝 × 𝑝′ = |4 −2 −2|
0 6 8

= 𝑖ˆ(−16 + 12) − 𝑗ˆ(32 − 0) + 𝑘ˆ (24 − 0)

= −4𝑖ˆ − 32𝑗ˆ + 24𝑘ˆ

|𝑝×𝑝′ |
∴ Area of parallelogram = 2

√16 + 1024 + 576

= = 2√101 sq. units.
2

18
43. If 𝑎 = 2𝑖̂ − 3𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 𝑏⃗ = −𝑖̂ + 𝑘̂, 𝑐 = 2𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ are three vectors, find the area of the
parallelogram having diagonals (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) and (𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 ).
[CBSE 2014C]

Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑏ˆ = −𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑐 = 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ

∴ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ = (2𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) + (−𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) = 𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ

and 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 = (−𝑖ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) + (2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) = −𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
∴ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) × (𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) = | 1 −3 2| = −4𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
−1 2 0

∴ Area of a parallelogram whose diagonals are 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ and 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐

1 1
= |(𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) × (𝑏⃗ + 𝑐)| = | − 4𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ |
2 2
1 √21
= 2 √(−4)2 + (−2)2 + (−1)2 = 2
sq.units.

Based on a Vector which is Perpendicular to two vectors

44. Write the number of vectors of unit length perpendicular to both the vectors 𝑎 = 2𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ +
2𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ .
[CBSE 2016]
Solution

Given, 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

𝑎⃗ ×𝑏 ⃗
Unit vectors perpendicular to 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are ± ( ⃗ ).
|𝑎⃗ ×𝑏|
𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
Now, 𝑎 × 𝑏 = |2 1 2 | = −𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ
⃗
0 1 1
∴ Unit vectors perpendicular to 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are

(−𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ ) 1 2 2

± = ± (− 𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ )
√(−1)2 + (−2)2 + (2)2 3 3 3

So, there are two unit vectors perpendicular to the given vectors.

19
45. Write a unit vector perpendicular to both vectors 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂.
[CBSE 2015]
Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ
Vector perpendicular to both 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ is

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = |1 1 1 | = −𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 0𝑘ˆ = −𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ
1 1 0

∴ Unit vector perpendicular to both 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗

−𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ 1
=± =± (−𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ).
√(−1)2 + 12 √2

Based on Dot and Cross Product Formula

2 2
46. If |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| + |𝑎. 𝑏⃗| = 400 and |𝑎| = 5 then write the value of |𝑏⃗|.
[CBSE 2016]
Solution

|𝑎 × 𝑏⃗|2 + |𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗|2 = 400

⇒ {|𝑎||𝑏⃗|sin 𝜃}2 + {|𝑎|𝑏⃗ ∣ cos 𝜃}2 = 400
⇒ |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 sin2 𝜃 + |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 cos2 𝜃 = 400

⇒ |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 = 400 ⇒ 25 × |𝑏⃗|2 = 400

⇒ |𝑏⃗|2 = 16 ⇒ |𝑏⃗| = 4

[∵ |𝑎| = 5]

2 2
47. If |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗| + |𝑎. 𝑏⃗| = 400 and |𝑏⃗| = 5, then find the value of |𝑎|.
[CBSE 2021-22]
Solution

. We have, |𝑎 × 𝑏⃗|2 + |𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗|2 = 400

⇒ |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 sin2 𝜃 + |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 cos 2 𝜃 = 400
⇒ |𝑎|2 |𝑏⃗|2 = 400 (∵ sin2 𝜃 + cos2 𝜃 = 1)
⇒ |𝑎|2 × 25 = 400

20
 400
⇒ |𝑎|2 = = 16
25
⇒ |𝑎| = 4

48. If 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ , 𝑎. 𝑏⃗ = 1 and 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂, then find |𝑏⃗|

[CBSE 2021-22]
Solution

Given: 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 1 and 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ To find |𝑏⃗|.

Let 𝑏⃗ = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ
Since, 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 1

⇒ (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) = 1

⇒ 𝑥+𝑦+𝑧 =1

and 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ

⇒ (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) × (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
⇒|1 1 1 | = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
𝑥 𝑦 𝑧
⇒𝑖ˆ(𝑧 − 𝑦) − 𝑗ˆ(𝑧 − 𝑥) + 𝑘ˆ (𝑦 − 𝑥) = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
⇒𝑥 − 𝑧 = 1, 𝑦 − 𝑥 = −1, 𝑧 − 𝑦 = 0
⇒𝑧 = 𝑦 … (1), 𝑥 − 𝑧 = 1 … (2) and 𝑦 − 𝑥 = −1

From (1), (2) and (3) equation, we get

𝑥 = 1, 𝑦 = 𝑧 = 0
⃗ ˆ
So 𝑏 = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘
= 𝑖ˆ
⃗
|𝑏| = 1.

49. Let 𝑎 = 4𝑖̂ + 5𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ , 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖̂ − 4𝑗̂ + 5𝑘̂ and 𝑐 = 3𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂. Find a vector 𝑑 which is
perpendicular to both 𝑐 and 𝑏⃗ and 𝑑 . 𝑎 = 21.
[CBSE 2018]
Solution

Let 𝑑 = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ

Now, it is given that, 𝑑 is perpendicular to 𝑏⃗ = 𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ and 𝑐 = 3𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
∴ 𝑑 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 and 𝑑 ⋅ 𝑐 = 0

21
⇒ 𝑥 − 4𝑦 + 5𝑧 = 0
and 3𝑥 + 𝑦 − 𝑧 = 0
Also, 𝑑 ⋅ 𝑎 = 21, where 𝑎 = 4𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
⇒ 4𝑥 + 5𝑦 − 𝑧 = 21
Eliminating 𝑧 from (i) and (ii), we get
16𝑥 + 𝑦 = 0
Eliminating 𝑧 from (ii) and (iii), we get 𝑥 + 4𝑦 = 21
Solving (iv) and ( 𝑣 ), we get

−1 16
𝑥= ,𝑦 =
3 3
13 −1 16 13
Putting the values of 𝑥 and 𝑦 in (i), we get 𝑧 = ∴ 𝑑‾ = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ is the required vector.
3 3 3 3

50. If 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂, find a vector 𝑐 , such that 𝑎 × 𝑐 = 𝑏⃗ and 𝑎. 𝑐 = 3.

[CBSE 2013]

Solution

Given, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
Let 𝑐 = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ
Now we have, 𝑎 × 𝑐 = 𝑏⃗

⇒ (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) × (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
⇒ |1 1 1 | = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
𝑥 𝑦 𝑧
⇒ 𝑖ˆ(𝑧 − 𝑦) − 𝑗ˆ(𝑧 − 𝑥) + 𝑘ˆ (𝑦 − 𝑥) = 𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ

⇒ 𝑧 − 𝑦 = 0, 𝑥 − 𝑧 = 1 and 𝑦 − 𝑥 = −1
⇒ 𝑦 = 𝑧, 𝑥 − 𝑧 = 1, 𝑥 − 𝑦 = 1

Also, we have 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑐 = 3

⇒ (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) = 3

⇒𝑥+𝑦+𝑧 =3
⇒ 𝑥+𝑥−1+𝑥−1 = 3
5 2 2
⇒ 3𝑥 − 2 = 3 ⇒ 𝑥 = , 𝑦 = , 𝑧 =
3 3 3
5 2 2
Hence, 𝑐 = 3 𝑖ˆ + 3 𝑗ˆ + 3 𝑘ˆ

22
 Mixed Questions

51. The two vectors 𝑖̂ + 𝑘̂ and 3𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 4𝑘̂ represent the two sides AB and AC, respectively
of a ΔABC. Find the length of the median through A.
[CBSE 2015]
Solution

Take 𝐴 to be as origin (0,0,0).

∴ Coordinates of 𝐵 are (0,1,1) and coordinates of 𝐶 are (3, −1,4).

3 5
Let 𝐷 be the mid point of 𝐵𝐶 and 𝐴𝐷 is a median of △ 𝐴𝐵𝐶. ∴ Coordinates of 𝐷 are (2 , 0, 2)
3 2 5 2 9 25 √34
So, length of 𝐴𝐷 = √(2 − 0) + (0)2 + (2 − 0) = √4 + 4
= 2
units

52. If 𝑎 ≠ ⃗0, 𝑎. 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎. 𝑐 , 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎 × 𝑐 , then show that 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐 .

[CBSE SQP 2021-22]
Solution

We have, 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑐 ⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) = 0
⇒ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) = 0 ⃗ or 𝑎 ⊥ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐 )
⇒ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐 or 𝑎 ⊥ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐)
(1) Also, 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎 × 𝑐 ⇒ 𝑎 × (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) = 0
⃗
⇒ 𝑏⃗ − 𝑐 = ⃗0 or 𝑎 ∥ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐)
⇒ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐 or 𝑎 ∥ (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐)
Since, 𝑎 can not be both perpendicular to (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) and parallel to (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐).
Hence, 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐.

23
53. Show that for any two non-zero vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗, |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ | iff 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are
perpendicular vectors.
[CBSE 2020]
Solution

For any two non-zero vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗, we have

|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|
⇒ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|2
⇒𝑎2 + 𝑏⃗ 2 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 𝑎 2 + 𝑏⃗ 2 − 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
⇒4𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0

So, 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are perpendicular vectors.

𝜃
54. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are unit vectors, then prove that |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ | = 2 cos 2, where θ is the angle

between them.
[CBSE SQP 2021-22]
Solution

Since, |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + 2(𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗)

∴ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = 1 + 1 + 2cos 𝜃 [ As |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗| = 1]
𝜃 𝜃
= 2(1 + cos 𝜃) = 4cos2 [∵ 1 + cos 𝜃 = 2cos 2 ]
2 2
𝜃
∴ |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = 2cos
2

55. If 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐 × 𝑑 and 𝑎 × 𝑐 = 𝑏⃗ × 𝑑 , show that 𝑎 − 𝑑 is parallel to 𝑏⃗ − 𝑐, where 𝑎 ≠ 𝑑

and 𝑏⃗ ≠ 𝑐 .
[CBSE 2016]

Solution

Two non zero vectors are parallel if and only if their cross product is zero vector.
So, we have to prove that cross product of 𝑎 − 𝑑 and 𝑏⃗ − 𝑐 is zero vector.
(𝑎 − 𝑑) × (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) = (𝑎 × 𝑏⃗) − (𝑎 × 𝑐) − (𝑑 × 𝑏⃗) + (𝑑 × 𝑐)
Since, it is given that 𝑎 × 𝑏⃗ = 𝑐 × 𝑑 and 𝑎 × 𝑐 = 𝑏⃗ × 𝑑 .

24
And, 𝑑 × 𝑏⃗ = −𝑏⃗ × 𝑑, 𝑑 × 𝑐 = −𝑐 × 𝑑
Therefore,
(𝑎 − 𝑑) × (𝑏⃗ − 𝑐) = (𝑐 × 𝑑) − (𝑏⃗ × 𝑑) + (𝑏⃗ × 𝑑) − (𝑐 × 𝑑) = ⃗0
Hence, 𝑎 − 𝑑 is parallel to 𝑏⃗ − 𝑐, where 𝑎 ≠ 𝑑 and 𝑏⃗ ≠ 𝑐.

56. If 𝑟 = 𝑥𝑖̂ + 𝑦𝑗̂ + 𝑧𝑘̂ , find (𝑟 × 𝑖̂). (𝑟 × 𝑗̂) + 𝑥𝑦.

[CBSE 2015]
Solution

(𝑟 × 𝑖ˆ) ⋅ (𝑟 × 𝑗ˆ) + 𝑥𝑦
= [(𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) × 𝑖ˆ] ⋅ [(𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) × 𝑗ˆ)] + 𝑥𝑦
= (−𝑦𝑘ˆ + 𝑧𝑗ˆ) ⋅ (𝑥𝑘ˆ − 𝑧𝑖ˆ) + 𝑥𝑦 = −𝑥𝑦 + 𝑥𝑦 = 0

57. If 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ and 𝑐 = 3𝑖̂ − 4𝑗̂ − 5𝑘̂, then find a unit vector perpendicular
to both of the vectors (𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) and (𝑐 − 𝑏⃗).
[CBSE 2015]

Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ , 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ and 𝑐 = 3𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ

∴ 𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ = (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) − (2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ) = −𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
and 𝑐 − 𝑏⃗ = (3𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ ) − (2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ) = 𝑖ˆ − 5𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ
Vector perpendicular to both 𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 − 𝑏⃗ is

𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ
(𝑎 − 𝑏⃗) × (𝑐 − 𝑏⃗) = |−1 1 1|
1 −5 −5
= (−5 + 5)𝑖ˆ − (5 − 1)𝑗ˆ + (5 − 1)𝑘ˆ = −4𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ

∴ Unit vector perpendicular to both 𝑎 − 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 − 𝑏⃗

−4𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ −4𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ −4𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘ˆ 1

=± =± =± =± (−𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ).
ˆ
| − 4𝑗ˆ + 4𝑘 | 2
√(−4) + 4 2 4√2 √2

25
58. If 𝑎 = 3𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ − 3𝑘̂ then express 𝑏⃗ in the form 𝑏⃗ = 𝑏⃗1 + 𝑏⃗2 where 𝑏⃗1 ||𝑎
and 𝑏⃗2 ⊥ 𝑎.
[CBSE 2013C]
Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ, 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ

We have to express: 𝑏⃗ = 𝑏⃗1 + 𝑏⃗2 , where
𝑏⃗1 ∥ 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗2 ⊥ 𝑎
Let 𝑏⃗1 = 𝜆𝑎 = 𝜆(3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) and 𝑏⃗2 = 𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ
Now 𝑏⃗2 ⊥ 𝑎 ⇒ 𝑏⃗2 ⋅ 𝑎 = 0
⇒ (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) = 0
⇒ 3𝑥 − 𝑦 = 0
Now, 𝑏⃗ = 𝑏⃗1 + 𝑏⃗2
⇒ 2𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ = 𝜆(3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) + (𝑥𝑖ˆ + 𝑦𝑗ˆ + 𝑧𝑘ˆ )
(i) On comparing, we get

2 = 3𝜆 + 𝑥
] ⇒ 𝑥 + 3𝑦 = 5
1 = −𝜆 + 𝑦
and − 3 = 𝑧 ⇒ 𝑧 = −3

1 3
Solving (i) and (ii), we get 𝑥 = , 𝑦 =
2 2

3 1
∴ 1 = −𝜆 + 𝑦 = −𝜆 + ⇒𝜆=
2 2
3 1 1 3
Hence, 𝑏⃗1 = 𝜆(3𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ) = 2 𝑖ˆ − 2 𝑗ˆ and 𝑏⃗2 = 2 𝑖ˆ + 2 𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ

59. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are two vectors such that |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑏⃗|, then prove that (𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗) is
perpendicular to 𝑎.
[CBSE 2021-22]

Solution

Given that |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑏⃗|

To prove : (𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗) is perpendicular to 𝑎.
i.e., (𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗) ⋅ 𝑎 = 0

26
Since, |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑏⃗|
Squaring both sides, we get

|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = |𝑏⃗|2

⇒ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) ⋅ (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗) = |𝑏⃗|2 ⇒ |𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = |𝑏⃗|2

⇒ |𝑎|2 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0 ⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ (𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗) = 0
⇒ (𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗) ⋅ 𝑎 = 0
∴ 𝑎 + 2𝑏⃗ is perpendicular to 𝑎.

60. If 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗ are two vectors of equal magnitude and α is the angle between them, then
⃗|
|𝑎⃗+𝑏 𝛼
prove that |𝑎⃗−𝑏⃗| = cot ( 2 ).

Solution

We have, |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗|

⃗|
|𝑎⃗ +𝑏 𝛼
We have to prove, ⃗|
= cot
|𝑎⃗ −𝑏 2
𝛼
i.e., |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗| = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|cot
2

𝛼
i.e., |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗|2 = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|2 cot 2
2
L.H.S. = |𝑎 + 𝑏| = |𝑎| + |𝑏|2 + 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
⃗ 2 2 ⃗
= 2|𝑎|2 + 2|𝑎||𝑏⃗|cos 𝛼(∵ |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗|)
= 2|𝑎|2 + 2|𝑎|2 cos 𝛼
𝛼
= 2|𝑎|2 (1 + cos 𝛼) = 2|𝑎|2 2cos2
2
2 2
𝛼
= 4|𝑎| cos
2
𝛼 𝛼
R.H.S. = |𝑎 − 𝑏⃗|2 cot 2 = (|𝑎|2 + |𝑏⃗|2 − 2𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗)cot 2 ( )
2 2
𝛼
2 ⃗ 2
= (2|𝑎| − 2|𝑎||𝑏|cos 𝛼) ⋅ cot ( )
2
𝛼 𝛼 cos2 𝛼/2
= 2|𝑎|2 (1 − cos 𝛼)cot 2 = 2|𝑎|2 ⋅ 2sin2 ⋅
2 2 sin2 𝛼/2
= 4|𝑎|2 cos2 𝛼/2

∴ From (i) and (ii)

L.H.S. = R.H.S.

27
61. If the sum of two unit vectors is a unit vector, prove that the magnitude of their difference
is √3.
[CBSE 2019]
Solution

Given, 𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ = 𝑐ˆ

⇒ (𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ) ⋅ (𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ) = 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ

⇒ 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ + 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 𝑐ˆ ⋅ 𝑐ˆ
⇒ 1 + 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 1 + 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 1 (∵ 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ)
⇒ 2𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = −1

Now (𝑎ˆ − 𝑏ˆ)2 = (𝑎ˆ − 𝑏ˆ) ⋅ (𝑎ˆ − 𝑏ˆ)

= 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ − 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ − 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑎ˆ + 𝑏ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 1 − 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ − 𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ + 1

= 2 − 2𝑎ˆ ⋅ 𝑏ˆ = 2 − (−1)

[Using(i)]

=3

∴ |𝑎ˆ − 𝑏ˆ| = √3

62. If 𝑎 = 𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ + 3𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖̂ + 4𝑗̂ − 5𝑘̂ represent two adjacent sides of a parallelogram,
find unit vectors parallel to the diagonals of the parallelogram.
[CBSE 2020]

Solution

28
Let 𝑎 = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 2𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ
Then diagonal ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐶 of the parallelogram is

𝑝 = 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗
= 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ + 3𝑘ˆ + 2𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ
= 3𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ

Therefore unit vector parallel to it is

𝑝 3𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ 1

= = (3𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ − 2𝑘ˆ )
|𝑝| √9 + 36 + 4 7

Now, diagonal ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

𝐵𝐷 of the parallelogram is

𝑝ˆ′ = 𝑏⃗ − 𝑎 = 2𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ − 𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ = 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 8𝑘ˆ

Therefore unit vector parallel to it is

𝑝′ 𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 8𝑘ˆ 1
′
= = (𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 8𝑘ˆ )
|𝑝 | √1 + 4 + 64 √69

63. Show that the vectors 2𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ , 3𝑖̂ + 7𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 5𝑖̂ + 6𝑗̂ + 2𝑘̂ form the sides of a right-
angled triangle.
[CBSE 2020]
Solution

Let 𝐴(2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ), 𝐵(3𝑖ˆ + 7𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) and 𝐶(5𝑖ˆ + 6𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ ).

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (3 − 2)𝑖ˆ + (7 + 1)𝑗ˆ + (1 − 1)𝑘ˆ = 𝑖ˆ + 8𝑗ˆ
Then, 𝐴𝐵

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (5 − 2)𝑖ˆ + (6 + 1)𝑗ˆ + (2 − 1)𝑘ˆ = 3𝑖ˆ + 7𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

𝐴𝐶
𝐵𝐶 = (5 − 3)𝑖ˆ + (6 − 7)𝑗ˆ + (2 − 1)𝑘ˆ = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

Now, angle between ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

𝐴𝐶 and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐵𝐶 is given by

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⋅ 𝐵𝐶
𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ 6−7+1
⇒ cos 𝜃 = =
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ||𝐵𝐶
|𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | √9 + 49 + 1√4 + 1 + 1

⇒ cos 𝜃 = 0 ⇒ 𝐴𝐶 ⊥ 𝐵𝐶

So, 𝐴, 𝐵, 𝐶 are the vertices of right angled triangle.

29
64. If 𝑖̂ + 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 2𝑖̂ + 5𝑗̂, 3𝑖̂ + 2𝑗̂ − 3𝑘̂ and 𝑖̂ − 6𝑗̂ − 𝑘̂ respectively are the position vectors of
points A, B, C and D, then find the angle between the straight lines AB and CD. Find
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐶𝐷
whether 𝐴𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ are collinear or not.
[CBSE 2019]
Solution

Given, position vector of 𝐴 = 𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ

Position vector of 𝐵 = 2𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ
Position vector of 𝐶 = 3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ
Position vector of 𝐷 = 𝑖ˆ − 6𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (2𝑖ˆ + 5𝑗ˆ) − (𝑖ˆ + 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) = 𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ
∴ 𝐴𝐵
and 𝐶𝐷 ̅̅̅̅ = (𝑖ˆ − 6𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) − (3𝑖ˆ + 2𝑗ˆ − 3𝑘ˆ ) = −2𝑖ˆ − 8𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | = √(1)2 + (4)2 + (−1)2 = √18
Now, |𝐴𝐵

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | = √(−2)2 + (−8)2 + (2)2 = √4 + 64 + 4

|𝐶𝐷
= √72 = 2√18

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐶𝐷
Let 𝜃 be the angle between 𝐴𝐵 ̅̅̅̅.

⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐴𝐵 ⋅ ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐶𝐷 (𝑖ˆ + 4𝑗ˆ − 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (−2𝑖ˆ − 8𝑗ˆ + 2𝑘ˆ )
∴ cos 𝜃 = =
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ||𝐶𝐷
|𝐴𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | (√18)(2√18)
−2 − 32 − 2 −36
= = = −1
36 36
⇒ cos 𝜃 = −1 ⇒ 𝜃 = 𝜋

Since, angle between ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ 𝐴𝐵 and ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗

𝐶𝐷 is 180∘ .
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐶𝐷
∴ 𝐴𝐵 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ are collinear.

65. If 𝑎, 𝑏⃗, 𝑐 are mutually perpendicular vectors of equal magnitudes, show that the vector
𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 is equally inclined to 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 . Also, find the angle which 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 makes
with 𝑎 or 𝑏⃗ or 𝑐.
[CBSE 2017]
OR
If 𝑎, 𝑏⃗, 𝑐 are three mutually perpendicular vectors of the same magnitude, prove that
𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 is equally inclined with the vectors 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 .
[CBSE 2013C]

30
 Solution

Given, |𝑎| = |𝑏⃗| = |𝑐|

and 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ = 0, 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑐 = 0, 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎 = 0
Let (𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐) be inclined to vectors 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐 by angles 𝛼, 𝛽 and 𝛾 respectively. Then

(𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 ) ⋅ 𝑎 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ ⋅ 𝑎 + 𝑐 ⋅ 𝑎
cos 𝛼 = =
|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐||𝑎| |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐||𝑎|
|𝑎|2 + 0 + 0
=
|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 ||𝑎|
|𝑎|
=
|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 |

[Using(ii)]
⃗|
|𝑏
Similarly, cos 𝛽 = ⃗ +𝑐 |
|𝑎⃗ +𝑏
|𝑐 |
and cos 𝛾 = ⃗ +𝑐 |
|𝑎⃗ +𝑏
From (i), (iii), (iv) and (v), we get cos 𝛼 = cos 𝛽 = cos 𝛾 ⇒ 𝛼 = 𝛽 = 𝛾
Hence, the vector 𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐 is equally inclined to the vector 𝑎, 𝑏⃗ and 𝑐.

Also, the angle between them is given as

|𝑎| |𝑏⃗|
𝛼 = cos −1 ( ) , 𝛽 = cos −1 ( )
|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐| |𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐|
|𝑐|
𝛾 = cos−1 ( )
|𝑎 + 𝑏⃗ + 𝑐|

66. Show that the points A, B, C with position vectors 2𝑖̂ − 𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂, 𝑖̂ − 3𝑗̂ − 5𝑘̂ and 3𝑖̂ − 4𝑗̂ −
4𝑘̂ respectively, are the vertices of a right-angled triangle. Hence find the area of the
triangle.
[CBSE 2017]
Solution

We have, 𝐴(2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ), 𝐵(𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ )

and 𝐶(3𝑖ˆ − 4𝑗ˆ − 4𝑘ˆ )
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (1 − 2)𝑖ˆ + (−3 + 1)𝑗ˆ + (−5 − 1)𝑘ˆ
Then, 𝐴𝐵
= −𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ − 6𝑘ˆ,
𝐴𝐶 = (3 − 2)𝑖ˆ + (−4 + 1)𝑗ˆ + (−4 − 1)𝑘ˆ = 𝑖ˆ − 3𝑗ˆ − 5𝑘ˆ
̅̅̅̅
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ = (3 − 1)𝑖ˆ + (−4 + 3)𝑗ˆ + (−4 + 5)𝑘ˆ = 2𝑖ˆ − 𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ
and 𝐵𝐶
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐵𝐶
Now angle between 𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ is given by

31
 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ) ⋅ (𝐵𝐶
(𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ) 2+3−5
cos 𝜃 = =
⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ ∥ 𝐵𝐶
|𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ | √1 + 9 + 25 ⋅ √4 + 1 + 1
⇒ cos 𝜃 = 0 ⇒ 𝐵𝐶 ⊥ 𝐴𝐶
So, 𝐴, 𝐵, 𝐶 are vertices of right angled triangle.
1
Now area of △ 𝐴𝐵𝐶 = |𝐴𝐶 ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗ × ⃗⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝐵𝐶 |
2

1 𝑖ˆ 𝑗ˆ 𝑘ˆ 1
= |1 −3 −5| = |(−3 − 5)𝑖ˆ − (1 + 10)𝑗ˆ + (−1 + 6)𝑘ˆ |
2 2
2 −1 1
1
= | − 8𝑖ˆ − 11𝑗ˆ + 5𝑘ˆ |
2
1 √210
= √64 + 121 + 25 = sq. units.
2 2

67. Find the values of λ for which the angle between the vectors 𝑎 = 2𝜆2 𝑖̂ + 4𝜆𝑗̂ + 𝑘̂ and 𝑏⃗ =
7𝑖̂ − 2𝑗̂ + 𝜆𝑘̂ is obtuse.
[CBSE 2013C]

Solution

Here, 𝑎 = 2𝜆2 𝑖ˆ + 4𝜆𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ and 𝑏⃗ = 7𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝜆𝑘ˆ

If 𝜃 is the angle between the vectors 𝑎 and 𝑏⃗, then

𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗
cos 𝜃 =
|𝑎||𝑏⃗|

For 𝜃 to be obtuse, cos 𝜃 < 0 ⇒ 𝑎 ⋅ 𝑏⃗ < 0

⇒ (2𝜆2 𝑖ˆ + 4𝜆𝑗ˆ + 𝑘ˆ ) ⋅ (7𝑖ˆ − 2𝑗ˆ + 𝜆𝑘ˆ ) < 0

⇒ 2𝜆2 ⋅ 7 + 4𝜆 ⋅ (−2) + 1 ⋅ 𝜆 < 0
⇒ 14𝜆2 − 7𝜆 < 0 ⇒ 𝜆(2𝜆 − 1) < 0
⇒ Either 𝜆 < 0,2𝜆 − 1 > 0 or 𝜆 > 0,2𝜆 − 1 < 0
1 1
⇒ Either 𝜆 < 0, 𝜆 > or 𝜆 > 0, 𝜆 <
2 2

First alternative is impossible.

1 1 1
∴ 𝜆 > 0, 𝜆 < i.e., 0 < 𝜆 < i.e., 𝜆 ∈] 0, [
2 2 2

32