The position vectors of points A, B and C are and respectively. If C divides the lien segment joining A and B in the ratio 3 : 1, find the values of λ and μ.

Let the position vectors of points A, B and C be, and respectively.


Given:, and


C divides AB internally in the ratio 3:1.



Recall the position vector of point P which divides AB, the line joining points A and B with position vectors and respectively, internally in the ratio m : n is



Here, m = 3 and n = 1.




We have, and






By comparing both sides, we get 36 + λ = –44


λ = –44 – 36


λ = –80


We also have 3μ + 3 = –12


3μ = –15


μ = –5


Thus, λ = –80 and μ = –5


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