Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Three Dimensional Geometry

Notes

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Introduction
We will learn about the 3-D geometry and also about the 3-D coordinate
system.
How to make use of vector algebra in 3-D geometry.
We will discuss about the direction cosines and direction ratios of a line joining
two points and also about the equations of plane and lines in space under
different conditions.
In case of 3-D the three coordinate planes divide the space into eight parts
known as octants.
Some examples of where 3-D geometry is being used:
• The path followed an aeroplane is along the x, y and z coordinates.

• The path followed by a ball in a room is another example of 3-D.When a ball

is thrown it will hit the walls and bounce back. The path followed by the ball
was in all the 3 directions (x, y,and z).

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Represent a point in Cartesian and Vector form

Consider a point P (4, 5, 6) and in Cartesian form it will be represented as:
• (x,y,z)=(4,5, 6).
In vector form point P will be represented as (4i+5j+6k).

Representing a line in 2Dwhose end points are given as (3,5) and (2,8):-
In Cartesian form:-
(y-8)/(x-2)=(8-5)/(2-3)=-3
(y-8)=-3(x-2) (equation(1))

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

In Vector form:-

Representing a line in 3D whose end points are given as:

In Cartesian form:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Direction Cosines of a Line

Consider a line passing through origin and making angle α with x-axis, β angle
with y-axis and γ angle with z-axis, then cosα,cosβ and cosγ are known as
direction cosines of the line.
Direction cosines are the cosine of the angles which a line makes with XY and
Z-axis.
They are denoted by(l,mand n).Therefore, cos α =l,cosβ=m and cos γ= n.
To prove: - l2+m2+n2=1 i.e. cos2α + cos2 β+ cos2 γ =1.
Proof:- Consider a line PQ and its equation is given as:-
PQ->= (a î+bĵ+ck̂)
=r(cos α î+ cosβ ĵ+ cos γ k̂)
where r=√(a2+b2+c2)
IPQ-->I2=(a2+b2+c2)
=r2 (cos2 α +cos2β +cos2γ)= (a2+b2+c2) =r2 (cancelling r2 from both the sides).
=(cos2 α + cos2β + cos2γ) =1
l2+m2+n2 =1.
The above proof holds good for any line.
Hence Proved.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Direction Ratios of a Line

Any 3 numbers which are proportional to the direction cosines of a line are
known as direction ratios of that line.
Direction ratios are denoted by (a,b and c).
Consider a vector OP-->=a î +bĵ +ck̂ (Where a, b and c are direction ratios. )
=r (cos α î + cosβ ĵ + cos γ k̂) where r=√ (a2+b2+c2)
cosα,cosβ and cosγ are direction cosines.
r cosα=a,r cosβ=b, r cosγ=c are direction ratios.

Relation between Direction Ratios and Direction Cosines

Consider a line whose one point is at origin and another is at P. Considering a
vector OP-->=a î +bĵ +ck̂ (equation(1))
=r cos αî+r cosβĵ+r cos γk̂
where r=√ (a2+b2+c2) (equation(2))
Comparing equations (1) and (2) :-
a=(rcos α) ,b =(r cosβ) and c=(rcosγ)(equation(3))
cos α =(a/r), cosβ=(b/r) and cosγ=(c/r) (equation(4))
Squaring and adding equation(4) :-
(a2/r2) + (b2/r2)+(c2/r2) =1
using (cos2 α + cos2 β + cos2 γ) =1
=>(a2+ b2+c2) = r2 (equation(5))
From equation(4) cos α =(a/r)= (±) (a)/(√( a2+ b2+c2)
using equation(5)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Similarly cos β=(b/r) =(±)(b)/ (√( a2+ b2+c2) and

cos γ=(c/r) =(±)(c)/ (√( a2+ b2+c2)
using equation (5)
Therefore cos α, cos β and cosγare the direction cosines which are written in
the form of a, b and c which are direction ratios.

Relationship between direction ratios and cosines when a line passes

through 2 points
One and only one line passes through two given points.
Consider a line PQ and the coordinates of points P and Q are given as P(x1, y1,
z1) and Q(x2,y2,z2).
Let l,m and n are the direction cosines of the line PQ and which makes
angleα,βand γ with the x,y and z-axis respectively.
If we draw perpendiculars from the point P and Q as shown in the figure (b), to
XY-plane to meet at R and S. Also drawing a perpendicular from P to QS to
meet at N.
Therefore cosα= (x2-x1)/(PQ)
Similarly cosβ =(y2-y1)/(PQ) and cosγ =(NQ)/(PQ) =(z2-z1)/(PQ)
Therefore the direction cosines of the line segment joining the points P(x1, y1,
z1) and Q(x2, y2, z2) will be:-
PQ=(x2-x1)/(PQ) ,(y2-y1)/(PQ) +(z2-z1)/(PQ) equation(1)
Where PQ=√( x2-x1)2+( y2-y1)2+( z2-z1)2
Note:- The direction ratios of the line segment joining point P(x1, y1, z1) and

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Q(x2, y2, z2) can be considered as – (x2 – x1, y2 – y1, z2 – z1 or x1 – x2, y1 – y2, z1 –
z2)

Problem:-
If a line makes an angle of 90°, 135o, 45o with the positive direction ofx, y, z-
axes, respectively, then find its direction cosines.
Answer:-
Let l, m and be direction cosines of the line. Then l= cos90° = 0, m=cos 135o =-
(1/√2) and n=cos 45o= (1/√2)
Therefore Direction cosines: [0,-(1/√2),(1/√2)]
Problem:-
Find the direction cosines of a line which makes equal angles with the
coordinate axes.
Answer:-
Let the direction cosines of the line make an angle α with each of the
coordinate axes.
l = cos α, m = cos α, n = cos α
l2+m2+n2 =1
=>cos2 α + cos2 β + cos2 γ) =1
=>3cos2 α =1
=>cos2 α = (1/3)
=>cosα = (±) (1/√3)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Thus, the direction cosines of the line, which is equally inclined to the
coordinate axes,are(±)(1/√3),(±) (1/√3),and (±) (1/√3).
Problem:-
If a line has the direction ratios −18, 12, −4, then what are its direction cosines?
Answer:-
If a line has direction ratios of −18, 12, and −4, then its direction cosines are
= (-18)/ (√ ((18)2+ (12)2+ (-4)2),
= (12)/ ((√ ((18)2+ (12)2+ (-4)2),
= (-4)/(√ ((18)2+ (12)2+ (-4)2)
= i.e. (-18)/ (22), (12)/ (22) and (-4)/ (22)
= (-9/11), (6/11) and (-2)/ (11)
Thus, the direction cosines are (-9/11), (6/11) and (-2)/ (11).
Problem:-
Show that the points (2, 3, 4), (−1, −2, 1), (5, 8, 7) are collinear.

Answer:-
The given points are A (2, 3, 4), B (− 1, − 2, 1), and C (5, 8, 7).
It is known that the direction ratios of line joining the points, (x1, y1, z1) and (x2,
y2, z2),are given by, (x2 − x1), (y2 − y1), and (z2 − z1).
The direction ratios of AB are (−1 − 2), (−2 − 3), and (1 − 4) i.e., (−3, −5, and −3).
The direction ratios of BC are (5 − (− 1)), (8 − (− 2)), and (7 − 1) i.e., (6, 10, and
6).
It can be seen that the direction ratios of BC are −2 times that of AB i.e., they
areproportional.
Therefore, AB is parallel to BC. Since point B is common to AB and BC, points A,
B, and C are collinear.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Problem:-
Find the direction cosines of the sides of the triangle whose vertices are (3, 5, −
4), (−1, 1, 2) and (− 5, − 5, − 2)?

Answer:-
The vertices of ∆ABC are A (3, 5, −4), B (−1, 1, 2), and C (−5, −5, −2).
The direction ratios of side AB are (−1 − 3), (1 − 5), and (2 − (−4)) i.e., (−4), (−4),
and(6).
Then,√ ((-4)2+ (-4)2+ (6)2) =√ (16+16+32)
=√ (68)
=2√ (17)
Therefore, the direction cosines of AB are
= (-4)/ (√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 + (6)2),
= (-4)/ (√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 + (6)2),
= (6)/ ((√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 + (6)2)
= (-4)/ (2√ (17), - (4)/2√ (17), (-6)/2√ (17)
= (-2)/√ (17), (-2)/√ (17), (3)/√ (17)
The direction ratios of BC are (−5 − (−1)), (−5 − 1), and (−2 − 2) i.e., (−4), (−6),
and (−4). Therefore, the direction cosines of BC are
= (-4)/ (√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 + (6)2), (-4)/ (√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 + (6)2), (6)/ ((√ (-4)2 + (-4)2 +
(6)2)
= (-4)/ (2√ (17), (-4)/(2√ (17)), (-6)/(2√ (17))

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

The direction ratios of CA are (−5 − 3), (−5 − 5), and (−2 − (−4)) i.e., (−8), (−10),
and (2).
Therefore, the direction cosines of AC are
= (-8)/√ ((-8)2+ (10)2+ (2)2),
= (-5)/ ((-8)2+ (10)2+ (2)2),
= (2)/ ((-8)2+ (10)2+ (2)2)
=(-8)/ (2√ (42)), (-10)/ (2√ (42)), (2)/2√42))

Equation of a line in Space

A line is uniquely determined if:
• It passes through a given point and has direction, or
• It passes through two given points.

Line through a given point and parallel to a given vector:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Derivation of Cartesian form from vector form

Let the coordinates of the given point A be (x1, y1, z1) and the direction ratios of
the line be a, b, c.
Let the coordinates of the any point P be (x, y, z).
Consider r-> = xî +yĵ +zk̂, a=x1î+y1ĵ+z1k̂and b->= (a î +bĵ +ck̂) line vector L->=a î +bĵ
+ck̂.
Equation of line: - r->= P-> + λL->.(equation(1))
Using equation (1) x1î+y1ĵ+z1k̂= x1î+y1ĵ+z1k̂+λ (aî +bĵ +ck̂).
Therefore, x=x1+λa => (x-x1)/(a)=λ
y=y1+λb => (y-y1)/(b) =λ
z=z1+λc => (z-z1)/(c)=λ
Therefore Equation of line in Cartesian form is given by :-
(x-x1)/ (a) = (y-y1)/ (b) = (z-z1)/(c)(By eliminatingλ).
Note: - If l, m and n are direction cosines of the line then the equation of line is
given as:
=(x–x1)/l =(y-y1)/m= (z-z1)/n

Problem:-
Find the equation of the line which passes through the point (1, 2, and 3) and is
parallel to the vector 3î+2ĵ -2k̂.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-

It is given that the line passes through the point A (1, 2, and 3). Therefore, the
position vector through A is a->=î+2ĵ +3k̂ and b-> =3î +2ĵ -2k̂.
It is known that the line which passes through point A and parallel to b-> is
given by r->=a->+ λb->
=>r-> =î +2ĵ +3k̂+λ (3î +2ĵ -2k̂).
This is the required equation of the line.

Problem:-
Find the equation of the line in vector and in Cartesian form that passes
through the point with position vector 2î-ĵ +4k̂ and is in the direction î +2ĵ -k̂?
Answer:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

It is given that the line passes through the point with position vector a->=2î -ĵ
+4k̂(equation (1))
b-> = î +2ĵ -k̂(equation (2))
It is known that a line through a point with position vector a⃗and parallel tob ⃗
is givenby the equation, r-> = a-> + λb ->.
=>r-> =2î -ĵ +4k̂+ λ(î +2ĵ -k̂)
This is the required equation of the line in vector form.
r-> = x î +yĵ +zk̂=>(λ+2)î+ (2λ-1)ĵ+ (-λ+4)k̂
Eliminating λ, we obtain the Cartesian form equation as:
(x-2)/ (1) =(y+2)/ (2) = (z-4)/ (-1)
This is the required equation of the given line in Cartesian form.
Problem:-
Find the Cartesian equation of the line which passes through the point(−2, 4,
−5) and parallel to the line given by (x+3)/ (3) =(y-4)/ (5) = (z+8)/ (6)?
Answer:-
It is given that the line passes through the point (−2, 4, −5) and is parallel to
(x+3)/ (3) =(y-4)/ (5) = (z+8)/ (6)
The direction ratios of the line,(x+3)/ (3) =(y-4)/ (5) = (z+8)/ (6), are 3, 5, and 6.
The required line is parallel to (x+3)/ (3) =(y-4)/ (5) = (z+8)/ (6).
Therefore, its direction ratios are 3k, 5k, and 6k, where k ≠ 0
It is known that the equation of the line through the point (x1, y1, z1) and with
direction ratios, a, b, c, is given by (x-x1)/ (a) =(y-y1)/ (b) = (z-z1)/(c)
Therefore the equation of the required line is (x+2)/ (3k) =(y-4)/ (5k) = (z+5)/
(6k)
=>(x+3)/ (3) = k
=> (y-4)/ (5) = k
=> (z+8)/ (6) =k.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Equation of a line passing through two given points

Derivation of Cartesian form from vector form

Consider r-> = x î +yĵ +zk̂, a=x1 î +y1ĵ +z1k̂ and b ->= (x2 î +y2ĵ +z2k̂)
Substituting the values in equation r=a+λ(b->-a->) ,Therefore
x î +yĵ +zk̂=x1 î +y1ĵ +z1k̂+ λ((x2-x1)î+(y2-y1)ĵ +(z2-z1)k̂)
Equating the coefficients of î,ĵ,k̂we get,
x=x1+ λ(x2-x1); y=y1+λ(y2-y1);z=z1+λ(z2-z1)
On eliminating λ, we get,
Therefore equation of the line in Cartesian form will be :-
(x-x1)/(x2-x1) = (y-y1)/(y2-y1) =(z-z1)/(z2-z1)
Problem:-
Find the vector and the Cartesian equations of the line that passes through the
points (3, −2, −5), (3, −2, 6).

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-
Let the line passing through the points, P (3, −2, −5) and Q (3, −2, 6), be PQ.
Since PQ passes through P (3, −2, −5), its position vector is given by,a->=3î-2ĵ-5k̂
The direction ratios of PQ are given by,
(3 − 3) = 0, (−2 + 2) = 0, (6 + 5) = 11
The equation of the vector in the direction of PQ is: -b->=0.î-0ĵ+11k̂=11k̂
The equation of PQ in vector form is given by,r-> = a-> + λb->,where λ∈ R.
=>r->= (3î -2ĵ -5k̂) +11λk̂
The equation of PQ in Cartesian form is=(x-x1)/ (a) =(y-y1)/ (b) = (z-z1)/(c)
=(x-3)/ (0) =(y+2)/ (0) = (z+5)/ (11)
Problem:-
Find the vector and the Cartesian equations of the lines that pass through the
origin and (5, −2, 3).
Answer:-
The required line passes through the origin. Therefore, its position vector is
given by,
a->=0 (equation (1))
The direction ratios of the line through origin and (5, −2, 3) are
(5 − 0) = 5, (−2 − 0) = −2, (3 − 0) = 3
The line is parallel to the vector given by the equation, b->= 5î-2ĵ +3k̂
The equation of the line in vector form through a point with position vectors a-
>
and parallel to
b->= r->=0 +λ (5î -2ĵ +3k̂)
r->=λ(5î -2ĵ +3k̂)
The equation of the line through the point (x1, y1, z1) and direction ratios a, b, c
is given by,
(x-x1)/ (a) =(y-y1)/ (b) = (z-z1)/(c)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Therefore, the equation of the required line in the Cartesian form is:-
(x-0)/ (5) =(y-0)/ (-2) = (z-0)/ (3)
=>(x/5) =(y/-2)/ (z/3)
Problem:-
The Cartesian equation of a line is (x-5)/ (3) =(y+4)/ (7) = (z-6)/ (2). Write its
vector form.
Answer:-

The Cartesian equation of the line is (x-5)/ (3) =(y+4)/ (7) = (z-6)/ (2) (equation
(1)).
The given line passes through the point (5, −4, 6). The position vector of this
point is a->=5î-4ĵ +6k̂.
Also, the direction ratios of the given line are 3, 7, and 2.
This means that the line is in the direction of vector, b-> =3î+7ĵ +2k̂.
It is known that the line through position vector a⃗ and in the direction of the
vector b-> is given by the equation, r->= a-> + λb->, whereλ∈ R.
=>r-> = (5î -4ĵ +6k̂) + λ (3î +7ĵ +2k̂)
This is the required equation of the given line in vector form.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Angle between two lines (in terms of Direction ratios)

Let L1 and L2 be two lines passing through the origin and with direction ratios
(a1, b1, c1) and (a2, b2, c2) respectively.
Let P be a point on L1 and Q be a point on line L2.
Let ϴ = angle between OP and OQ.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Note:- In case the lines L1 and L2do not pass through the origin, we may
takelines L’1 and L’2 which are parallel to L1 andL2 respectively and pass through
the origin.
Angle between two lines (in terms of Direction cosines)
Considering 2 line vectorsP and Q and the direction cosines of P (l1, m1, n1) and
of
Q(l2, m2, n2). Magnitude of P =r1 and magnitude of Q = r2.
Therefore P->=r1(l1î+m1ĵ +n1k̂) and Q-> =r2(l2î+m2ĵ +n2k̂)
P->.Q->= IPIIQIcosϴ
cosϴ= (P->.Q->)/(IPIIQI)
=r1 (l1î +m1ĵ +n1k̂). r2(l2î +m2ĵ +n2k̂)/(r1√l1)2+(m1)2+(n1)2) (r2√((l2)2+(m2)2+(n2)2)
cosϴ =Il1l2+m1m2+n1n2I(using for any line (l) 2+ (m) 2+ (n) 2 =1)
Perpendicular and parallel Test between 2 line vectors
Two lines with direction ratios a1, b1, c1and a2,b2,c2.
When Perpendicularϴ=900:-
When direction ratios are given then a1a2+b1b2+c1c2=0,and when direction
cosines are given then l1l2+m1m2+n1n2=0.
When Parallelϴ=0:-
(a1/a2)=(b1/b2)=(c1/c2) or (l1/l2)/(m1/m2)=(n1/n2)=0

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Angle between lines when line equations are given (Vector)

Consider the equation of a line passing through a1⃗ (point vector)and parallel
to b1⃗ such that r1⃗ = a1⃗ + λ b1⃗ and another line passing through a2⃗ (point
vector)and parallel to b2⃗ such that r2⃗= a2⃗ +μ b2⃗.
From the figure we can say that b1⃗ and b2⃗ are line vectors.
Angles between lines r1⃗ and r2⃗ are same as angle between line vectors b1⃗
and b2⃗

Problem:-
Find the angle between the following pairs of lines:
r ⃗=2î-5ĵ+k̂+λ (3î-2ĵ +6k̂) and r ⃗=7î-6k̂+μ (î+2ĵ +2k̂)?
Answer:-

=3+4+12
=19

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

=> cosϴ = (19)/ (7x3)

=>ϴ = cos-1(19/21)
Problem:-
Find the angle between the following pairs of lines:
(x-2)/ (2) =(y-1)/ (5)/ (z+3)/ (-3) and (x+2)/ (-1) =(y-4)/ (8) = (z-5)/ (4).
Answer:-
(x-2)/ (2) =(y-1)/ (5)/ (z+3)/ (-3) and (x+2)/ (-1) =(y-4)/ (8) = (z-5)/ (4)
Therefore b1⃗=2î+5ĵ -3k̂andb2⃗=-î +8ĵ +4k̂
Ib1⃗I=√ ((2)2+ (5)2+ (-3)2) =√38
Ib2⃗I= √ ((-1)2+ (8)2+ (4)2) =√81 =9
b1⃗.b2⃗ = (2î+5ĵ -3k̂). (-î+8ĵ +4k̂)
=2(-1) +5x8+ (-3).4
=-2+40-12
=26

=>cosϴ= (26)/ (9√38)

=>ϴ =cos-1(26)/ (9√38))
Problem:-
Find the values of p so the line (1-x)/(3)=(7y-14)/(2p)=(z-3)/(2)and (7-
7x)/(3p)=(y-5)/(1)=(6-z)/(-5)are straight angles.
Answer:-
The given equations can be written in the standard form as:
(1-x)/(3)=(7y-14)/(2p)=(z-3)/(2)and (7-7x)/(3p)=(y-5)/(1)=(6-z)/(-5)
The direction ratios of the lines are −3, (2p)/ (7), 2 and (-3p)/ (7), 1,-5
respectively.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Two lines with direction ratios, a1, b1, c1 and a2, b2, c2, are perpendicular to
each other,
If a1a2 + b1 b2 + c1c2 = 0.
Therefore ((-3)x(-3p)/(7))+((2p)/(1))+((2).(-5))=0
=> (9p)/ (7) + (2p)/ (7) =10
=>11p=70
=>p=(70/11).
Thus, the value of p is
(70/11).
Shortest Distance between two lines
If two lines intersect at a point, then the shortest distance between is 0.
If two lines are parallel, then the shortest distance between will be given by
the length of the perpendicular drawn from a point on one line form another
line.
Skew Lines
Skew lines are the lines which are neither intersecting nor parallel.
In 2-D lines are either parallel or intersecting. There are no skew lines in 2-D.
But in case of 3-D there are lines which are neither intersecting nor parallel to
each other.
For skew lines, the line of the shortest distance will be perpendicular to both
the lines.
From the figure we can see when we consider one line in xy plane and one in
xz plane.We can see that these lines will never meet.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Shortest Distance between Two Skew Lines (Vector form)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Shortest Distance between Two Skew lines (Cartesian form)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Distance between parallel lines

Problem:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-

Plane
A plane is determined uniquely if any one of the following is known:
(i) The normal to the plane and its distance from the origin is given, i.e.,
equation ofa plane in normal form.
(ii) It passes through a point and is perpendicular to a given direction.
(iii) It passes through three given non collinear points.
Equation of a plane in normal form: Vector

Consider a plane whose distance from the origin is‘d’.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Equation of a plane in normal form: Cartesian form

Let P(x, y, z) be any point on the plane.

Note:- Equation (3) shows that if r⃗ = xî+ yĵ+ zk̂ =d is the vector equation of
the plane, then ax+by+cz=d is the Cartesian equation of the plane, where a,b
and c are the direction ratios of the normal to the plane.
Problem:
Determine the direction cosines of the normal to the plane and the distance
from origin:
x+y+z=1 , 2.2x+3y-z=5
Answer:-
x + y + z = 1 ... (1)
The direction ratios of normal are 1, 1, and 1.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Therefore √ ((1)2+ (1)2+ (1)2)

Dividing both sides of equation (1) by √3, we obtain
(1/√3) x+ (1/√3) y+ (1/√3) z= (1/√3) … (2)
This equation is of the form lx + my + nz = d, where l, m, n are the direction
cosines of normal to the plane and d is the distance of normal from the origin.
Therefore, the direction cosines of the normal are (1/√3),(1/√3) and (1/√3) the
distance of normal from the origin is (1/√3) units.
2x + 3y − z = 5 ... (1)
The direction ratios of normal are 2, 3, and −1.
Therefore, √ (2)2+ (3)2+ (-1)2 =√ (14)
Dividing both sides of equation (1) by √ (14), we obtain
(2/√ (14)) x+ (3/√ (14)) y– (1/√ (14)) z= (5/√ (14))
This equation is of the form lx + my + nz = d, where l, m, n are the direction
cosines of normal to the plane and d is the distance of normal from the origin.
Therefore, the direction cosines of the normal to the plane are (2/√ (14)),(3/√
(14)) and (-1/√ (14)) and the distance of normal from the origin is (5/√ (14))
units.
5y + 8 = 0
=> 0 x − 5y + 0z = 8................. (1)
The direction ratios of normal are (0, −5, and 0).
Therefore √ (0+ (-5)2+0) =5.
Dividing both sides of equation (1) by 5, we obtain
-y= (8/5)
This equation is of the form lx + my + nz = d, where l, m, n are the direction
cosines of normal to the plane and d is the distance of normal from the origin.
Therefore, the direction cosines of the normal to the plane are (0, −1, and 0)
and the distance of normal from the origin is (8/5) units.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Problem:-
Find the distance of the plane 2x-3y+4z-6=0 from the origin.
Answer:-
Since the direction ratios of the normal to the plane are 2,-3, 4; the direction
cosines of it are
(2)/ (√ (2)2+ (-3)2+ (4)2),
(-3)/(√ (2)2+ (-3)2+ (4)2),
(4)/(√ (2)2+ (-3)2+ (4)2),
i.e. (2)/√ (29),
(-3)/√ (29),
(4)/√ (29)
Hence, dividing the equation (2x-3y+4z-6)=0 i.e. 2x-3y+4z=6 throughout by √
(29), we get
((2)/√ (29))x + ((-3)/√ (29))y + ((4)/√ (29)) z = (6)/√ (29)
This is the form lx+my+nz=d, where d is the distance of the plane from the
origin. So, the distance of the plane from the origin is (6)/√ (29)
Problem:-
Find the Cartesian equation of the following planes:

Answer:-
It is given that equation of the plane is
r-> . (î+ ĵ-2k̂)=2 (1)
For any arbitrary point P(x, y, z) on the plane, position vector r⃗is given by,
r-> = xî+ yĵ+ zk̂
Substituting the value of r⃗ in equation (1), we obtain
(xî+ yĵ+ zk̂)(î+ ĵ-2k̂) =2

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

=>x+y-z=2.
This is the Cartesian equation of the plane.
r->. (2î+3 ĵ-4k̂)=1 (1)
For any arbitrary point P (x, y, z) on the plane, position vector r-> is given by,
r-> = xî+ yĵ+ zk̂
Substituting the value of r-> in equation (1), we obtain
(xî+ yĵ+ zk̂)(2î+3 ĵ-4k̂) = 1
=>2x+3y-4z=2.
This is the Cartesian equation of the plane.
It is given that equation of the plane is
r->. [(s-2t)î +(3-t)ĵ +(2s+t)k̂] (1)
For any arbitrary point P (x, y, z) on the plane, position vector r-> is given by,
r-> = xî+ yĵ+ zk̂
Substituting the value of r⃗ in equation (1), we obtain
(xî+ yĵ+ zk̂) [(s-2t)î +(3-t)ĵ +(2s+t)k̂]
⇒ (s − 2t) x + (3 − t) y + (2s + t) z = 15
This is the Cartesian equation of the plane.
Problem:-
Find the coordinates of the foot of the perpendicular drawn from the origin to
the plane 2x-3y+4z-6=0?

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-
Let the coordinates of the foot of the perpendicular P from the origin to the
plane is (x1, y1, z1).
Then, the direction ratios of the line OP are (x1, y1, z1).
Writing the equation of the plane in the normal form, we have
(2/√29) x-(3/√29) y+ (4/√29) z= (6/√29) where (2/√29), (3/√29) y, (4/√29) are
the direction cosines of the OP.
Since d.c.’s and direction ratios of a line are proportional, we have
x1/ (2/√29)) = (y1/ -3/√29)) = (z1/ (4/√29)) = k
i.e. x1=(2k)/(√29), y1 =((-3k)/(√29), z1 =(4k)/(√29)
Substituting these in the equation of the plane, we get k = (6/√29)
Hence, the foot of the perpendicular is (12/29), (- 18/29), (24/29).
Equation of a plane perpendicular to a given vector and passing through a
given point
There can be many planes that are perpendicular to the given vector, but
through a given point P(x1,y1,z1) only one such plane exists.
Let a plane pass through a point A with position vector a-> and perpendicular to
vector N->.
Let r-> be the position vector of any point P(x, y,z) in the plane.
Then the point P lies in the plane if and only if
AP-> is perpendicular to N->.i.e. AP->. N-> = 0.
But AP-> = r->. a->. Therefore (r->- a->). N->=0. ..(1)
This is the vector equation of the plane.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Cartesian form

Let the given point A (x1, y1, z1), P(x, y, z) and direction ratios of N⃗ are A,B and
C.
Then a-> = x1î+y1ĵ+z1 k̂, r->=xî+yĵ+zk̂ and N->=Aî+Bĵ+C k̂
Now (r-> - a->). N-> =0
So [(x-x1) î +(y-y1) ĵ+ (z-z1) k̂].(Aî+Bĵ+C k̂)=0
e.A(x-x1)+B(y-y1)+C(z-z1) = 0
Problem:-
Find the vector and Cartesian equations of the plane which passes through the
point (5, 2, – 4) and perpendicular to the line with direction ratios (2, 3, – 1).
Answer:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

We have the position vector of point (5, 2,-4) as a-> = 5î+2ĵ-4k̂ and the normal
vector N-> perpendicular to the plane as N-> =2î+3ĵ-k̂.
Therefore, the vector equation of the plane is given by ( r->- a->). N-> =0
Or [r-> - (5î+2ĵ-4k̂)]. (2î+3ĵ-k̂)=0… (1)
Transforming (1) into Cartesian form, we have
[(x-5) î +(y-2) ĵ + (z+4) k̂]. (2î+3ĵ-k̂)= 0
Or 2(x-5) +3(y-2)-1(z+4) =0
i.e. 2x+3y-z=20, which is the Cartesian equation of the plane.
Problem:-
Find the vector and Cartesian equation of the planes
(a) That passes through the point (1, 0, −2) and the normal to the plane is î+ ĵ-k̂.
(b) That passes through the point (1, 4, and 6) and the normal vector to the
plane is î-2ĵ+ k̂.
Answer:-
The position vector of point (1, 0,-2) is a->= î-2k̂.
The normal vector N-> perpendicular to the plane is N->= î+ ĵ-k̂
The vector equation of the plane is given by, (r-> - a->). N-> =0
=>[r-> (î-2k̂)]. (î+ ĵ-k̂) =0 … (1)
r-> is the position vector of any point P(x,y,z) in the plane.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Therefore r-> =xî+yĵ+zk̂

Therefore equation (1) becomes
[(xî+yĵ+zk̂)-(î-2k̂)]. (î+ ĵ-k̂) =0
=> [(x-1) î + yĵ+ (z+2) k̂]. (î+ ĵ-k̂)=0
=>(x-1) +y-(z+2) =0
=>x+y-z-3=0
=>x+y-z=3.
This is the Cartesian equation of the required plane.
(a) The position vector of the point (1, 4, 6) is a->= î+4ĵ+6k̂.
The normal vector N-> perpendicular to the plane is N-> = î-2ĵ+k̂
The vector equation of the plane is given by, (r-> - a->). N-> =0
=>[r->- (î+4ĵ+6k̂)]. (î- 2ĵ +k̂) =0 … (1)
r-> is the position vector of any point P(x,y,z) in the plane.
Therefore r-> =xî+yĵ+zk̂
Therefore equation (1) becomes
[(xî+yĵ+zk̂)-(î+4ĵ+6k̂)]. (î- 2ĵ +k̂) =0
=> [(x-1)î + (y-4) ĵ+ (z-6)k̂].(î- 2 ĵ+k̂)=0
=>(x-1) -2(y-4) + (z-6) =0
=>x-2y+z+1=0.
This is the Cartesian equation of the plane.
Equation of a plane passing through 3 non collinear points
Let R, S and T be three non collinear points on the plane with position vectors
a->, b-> and c-> respectively.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

This is the equation of plane in vector form passing through three noncollinear
points.
These planes resemble the pages of the book where the line containing the
points R, S and T are present in the binding of the book.

Note:-Three points has to be non-collinear else there will be many planes that
will contain them.
Cartesian form
Let (x1, y1, z1), (x2, y2, z2) and (x3, y3, z3) be the coordinates of the points R, S and
T respectively.
Let (x,y,z) be the coordinates of the point P on the plane with position vector

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

r->.
Then

Substituting these values in equation(1) of the vector form and writing in the
determinant form:

The above equation is the equation of the plane in Cartesian form passing
through three non collinear points (x1, y1, z1), (x2, y2, z2) and (x3, y3, z3).
Problem:-
Find the vector equations of the plane passing through 3 points (1,1,-1),(6,4,5)
,(-4,-2,3)?
Answer:-
The given points are (1,1,-1),(6,4,5) ,(-4,-2,3).

=(12-10)-(18-20)-(-12+16)
=2+2-4=0.
Since 3 points are collinear points,there will be infinite number of planes
passing through the given points.
Problem:-
Find the vector equations of the plane passing through 3 points (1,1,0),(1,2,1)
,(2,2,-1)?

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-
The given points are (1,1,0),(1,2,1) ,(2,2,-1).

=(-2-2)-(2+2)=-8≠0.
Therefore, a plane will pass through the points A,B and C.
It is known that the equation of the plane through the points (x1, y1, z1), (x2, y2,
z2) and (x3, y3, z3) is

=>(-2) (x-1)-3(y-1) +3z=0

=>-2x-3y+3z+2+3=0
=>2x-3y+3z=-5
=>2x+3y-3z=5.
This is the Cartesian equation of the required plane.
Intercept form of the equation of a plane
Let the equation of the plane be Ax+By+Cz+ D=0 (where D≠0). (1)
Let the plane make intercepts a, b, c on x, y and z axes, respectively.
The plane meets x, y and z-axes at(a,0,0), (0,b,0) ,(0,0,c) respectively.
Therefore putting (0,0,c) we get, A(0)+B(0)+C(c)+D =0
=>C= - (D/c).
Similarly by putting (0,b,0) we get, A(0)+B(b)+C(0)+D=0
=> B=(-D/b)

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

And by putting (a,0,0) we get, A(a)+B(0)+C(0)+D=0

=>A=(-D/a)
Substituting the values of A,B and C in (1) we get,
(-D/a)x +(-D/b)y+(-D/c)z +D =0
=> (-D) ((x/a) + (y/b) + (z/c) – 1) =0.
(x/a)+(y/b) + (z/c) =1. Hence Proved.

Problem:-
Find the intercepts cut off by the plane 2x+y-z=5.
Answer:-
Considering the equation 2x+y-z=5. Dividing both sides of the equation by 5,
we obtain:
(2/5) x+(y/5)-(z/5) =1
=>(x)/ (5/2) + (y/5) + (z/-5) =1 (2)
It is known that the equation of a plane in intercept form is, (x/a) +(y/b) +(c/z)
=1, wherea, b, c are the intercepts cut off by the plane at x, y, z axes
respectively.
Therefore a=(5/2), b =5, and c=-5.
Thus the intercepts cut off by the plane are (5/2),(5) and (-5).
Problem:-
Find the equation of the plane with intercept 3 on the y-axis and parallel to
ZOX plane.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-
The equation of the plane ZOX is y = 0.
Any plane parallel to it is of the form, y = a.
Since the y-intercept of the plane is 3,
a=3
Thus, the equation of the required plane is y = 3.
Coplanarity of Two lines:Vector
Consider 2 lines such that: -First line be represented as: - r->=a1 ⃗+λ b1⃗, it
passes through a point A, having position vector a1⃗as and it is parallel to b1⃗.
Second line r-> = a2⃗+µ b2⃗, it passes through a point B,having position vector
a2⃗and is parallel to b2⃗.
Thus AB ⃗= (a2⃗- a1⃗). The given lines are coplanar iff AB ⃗is perpendicular to
(b1⃗x b2⃗).
Cartesian form:-
Let the coordinates of A =(x1, y1, z1) and of B= (x2, y2, z2).
Direction ratios of b1⃗= (a1, b1, c1) and of b2⃗ =(a2,b2,c2).
AB ⃗=(x2-x1) î +(y2-y1) ĵ +(z2-z1) k̂
b1⃗= (a1 î+b1 ĵ+c1 k̂) and b2⃗= (a2 î,b2 ĵ,c2 k̂).
The lines will be coplanar iff AB ⃗. (b1⃗x b2⃗) =0.
Therefore in the Cartesian form ,it can be given as:-

Angle between Two Planes: Vector

The angle between 2 planes is defined as the angle which they make with their
normal.

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Let θ = angle between the two planes (Fig (a)) then (1800- θ) = angle between
the two planes (Fig (b)).

r->.n1⃗=d1 and r->.n2⃗=d Where n1⃗ and n2⃗ = normal to the planes, θ =Angle
between the planes.
θ= angle between the normal to the planes drawn from some common point.
Therefore,

Note: -The planes are perpendicular to each other if n1⃗.n2⃗=0 and parallel ifn1⃗
is parallel to n2⃗.
Cartesian Form:-
Let θ =angle between the planes.
A1x+B1y+C1z+D1=0 and A2x+B2y+C2z+D2=0 where A1,B1,C1 and A2,B2,C2
Therefore ,

Note: -
If the planes are at right angles, then θ=900 and so cosθ =0. Therefore ,
cosθ= (A1A2 + B1B2+ C1C2).
If the planes are parallel, then (A1/A2) = (B1/B2) = (C1/C2).
Problem:-

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Find the angle between the planes whose vector equations are: - r->. (2 î+2ĵ-3
k̂)=5 and
r->. (3 î - 3ĵ+5 k̂)=3.
Answer:-
The equations of the given planes are r->. (2 î+2ĵ-3 k̂)=5 and r->. (3 î - 3ĵ+5 k̂)=3.
It is known that if n1⃗ and n2⃗ are r->.n1⃗=d1 and r⃗.n2⃗=d2normal to the planes,
then the angle between them, θ, is given by,

Here, n1⃗= (2î+2ĵ-3k̂) and n2⃗= (3î - 3ĵ+5k̂)

Therefore, n1⃗.n2⃗= (2î+2ĵ-3k̂). (3î - 3ĵ+5k̂) =2.3+2. (-3)+ (-3).5=-15

Substituting the value

cosθ = (15)/ (√ (731)
Therefore θ =cos-1(15)/ (√ (731)
Problem:
Find the angle between the two planes 3x – 6y + 2z = 7 and 2x + 2y – 2z =5.
Answer: -
Comparing the given equations of the planes with the equations
A1 x + B1 y + C1 z + D1 = 0 and A2 x + B2 y + C2 z + D2 = 0
We get A1 = 3, B1 = – 6, C1 = 2 A2 = 2, B2 = 2, C2 = – 2

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

= (5)/ (7√3)
= (5√3)/ (21)
Therefore, θ = cos-1 ((5√3)/ (21))
Distance of a Point from a Plane: vector
Consider a point P with position vector a ⃗ and a plane π1 whose equation is r->.
nˆ=d.

Consider a plane π2 through P parallel to the plane π1.

The unit vector normal to π2 = nˆ.
Therefore it equation will be (r-> - a->). nˆ=0. i.e. r->. nˆ=a ⃗. nˆ

Therefore, the distance PQ from the plane π1 is (Fig. (a)), i.e.

ON –ON’= | d - (a ⃗. nˆ) |
This gives the length of the perpendicular from a point to the given plane.
Note:-
If the equation of the plane π2 is in the form r->. N =d, where N= normal to the
plane, then the perpendicular distance is given as | ((a ⃗.N)-d)/N|.
The length of the perpendicular from the origin O to the plane
r->. N=d =| d |/| N| (since a ⃗=0).

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Cartesian form:-
Let P(x1, y1, z1) is the given point with position vector a ⃗.
The Cartesian equation is given by Ax+By+Cz+D=0.
Then a ⃗ = x1î +y1ĵ +z1k̂ and N=A î +B1 ĵ +C k̂
Therefore by using the result | ((a ⃗.N)-d)/N|, the perpendicular from P to the
plane is

Problem: -
Find the distance of a point (2, 5, – 3) from the plane r->. (6î -3ĵ +2k̂)=4?
Answer: -
Here, a ⃗=2î +5ĵ -3k̂, N =6î -3ĵ +2k̂ and d=4.
Therefore, the distance of the point (2, 5, – 3) from the given plane is

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

= 13/7
Angle between a Line and a Plane
The angle between a line and a plane is defined as the complement of the
angle between the line and normal to the plane.

Vector form:-
Equation of the line r->=a ⃗+λb-> and the equation of the plane r->.n->=d.
Then the angle between the line and the normal to the plane θ is given as,

The angle between line and the plane is φ= (900 – θ).

Using sin (900 – θ) =cosθ.

Problem:-
Find the angle between the line (x+1)/ (2) =(y/3) = (z-3)/ (6) and the plane
10x+2y-11z=3?

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Class 12 Mathematics | Three Dimensional Geometry | Notes

Answer:-
Let θ =angle between the line and the normal to the plane.
In Vector form: -r->= (-î+3k̂) +λ (2î+3ĵ + 6k̂)
And r->. (10 î +2 ĵ -11 k̂)=3
Here b->=2 î+3 ĵ+6 k̂ and nˆ=10 î+2ĵ-11k̂

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