Show that the four points A, B, C and D with position vectors and respectively are coplanar if and only if

Given that,






Let A, B, C and D be coplanar.


As we know that, the vectors , , and will be coplanar if there exist scalar x, y, z, u not all zero simultaneously such that .


Then, we can write



Where, (x + y + z + u) = 0


Provided x, y, z, u are scalars not all simultaneously zero.


Let x = 3, y = –2, z = 1 and u = –2


So, we get



Thus, A, B, C and D are coplanar if .



If is true.


Rearranging it, we get



Dividing this from the sum of its coefficient (that is, 4) on both sides,



Or


There is a point say P, which divides the line AC in ratio 1:3 and BD in ratio 2:2 internally.


Thus, P is the point of interaction of AC and BD.


As, vectors parallel to the same plane, or lie on the same plane are called coplanar vectors.


Hence, A, B, C and D are coplanar.


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