Vector algebra

  • Vector journeys
    problem

    Vector journeys

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Charlie likes to go for walks around a square park, while Alison likes to cut across diagonally. Can you find relationships between the vectors they walk along?

  • Quaternions and Reflections
    problem

    Quaternions and reflections

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    See how 4 dimensional quaternions involve vectors in 3-space and how the quaternion function F(v) = nvn gives a simple algebraic method of working with reflections in planes in 3-space.
  • Quaternions and Rotations
    problem

    Quaternions and rotations

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Find out how the quaternion function G(v) = qvq^-1 gives a simple algebraic method for working with rotations in 3-space.
  • Flexi Quad Tan
    problem

    Flexi quad tan

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    As a quadrilateral Q is deformed (keeping the edge lengths constnt) the diagonals and the angle X between them change. Prove that the area of Q is proportional to tanX.
  • Tetra Perp
    problem

    Tetra perp

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Show that the edges $AD$ and $BC$ of a tetrahedron $ABCD$ are mutually perpendicular if and only if $AB^2 +CD^2 = AC^2+BD^2$. This problem uses the scalar product of two vectors.
  • Three by One
    problem

    Three by one

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    There are many different methods to solve this geometrical problem - how many can you find?
  • Flexi Quads
    problem

    Flexi quads

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    A quadrilateral changes shape with the edge lengths constant. Show the scalar product of the diagonals is constant. If the diagonals are perpendicular in one position are they always perpendicular?