Question

Let L be the line with parametric equations

x = −2+3t
y = −4−2t
z = −4+3t

Find the shortest distance d from the point P0=(5, −1, 3) to L, and the point Q on L that is closest to P0.

Answer 1

what have you tried?

Answer 2

i honestly have no idea where to start...

Answer 3

so you know the distance formula?

Answer 4

no

Answer 5

you're kidding? this is a calculus problem...

Answer 6

linear algebra

Answer 7

I'm sorry, I don't know how to help you then.

Answer 8

okay thanks anyways

Answer 9

The only way I know how to do this involves derivatives. From a quick google, that appears to be the way of choice for most

Answer 10

oh but this isn't calculus

Answer 11

although, a different approach is taken in the comments here http://math.stackexchange.com/questions/1020562/distance-between-point-and-line-and-between-line-and-plane

Answer 12

there apparently is a vector approach

Answer 13

thanks im going to take a look rn

Answer 14

i'm still not sure how i should start

Answer 15

oh, here ya go. LA solution, I apologize my LA sucks, so I won't be help but try @zepdrix . He may have some ideas: http://math.mit.edu/~gs/linearalgebra/ila0403.pdf

Answer 16

@michael.sadowski
Are yuo still there?

Answer 17

Here's a link that solves a similar problem as yours. If you need further help, just post/tag me, or @FibonacciChick666.


http://math.stackexchange.com/questions/371649/distance-of-a-3d-point-from-the-parametric-form-of-a-line

Answer 18

oh hey i ended up figuring it out, but i have another question

Answer 19

I suggest you post a new question and tag someone if you wish. However, there are always others interested online.

Answer 20

no