Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Coordinate geometry

Coordinate geometry — practice question

Taking origin $O$, the position vectors of points $A$ and $B$ are given by $\overrightarrow{OA} = \begin{pmatrix} 3 \\ -6 \\ p \end{pmatrix}$ and $\overrightarrow{OB} = \begin{pmatrix} 2 \\ -6 \\ -7 \end{pmatrix}$, and angle $AOB = 90^\circ$. Point $C$ is defined so that $\overrightarrow{OC} = \frac{2}{3}\overrightarrow{OA}$.
(i)[2]

Find the value for $p$.

(ii)[4]

Find the unit vector pointing in the direction of $\overrightarrow{BC}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Use $\vec{OA}\cdot\vec{OB}=0$ or Pythagoras’ theorem to show a right angle

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