Show that the points , and are collinear, and find the ratio in which divides .
The points , , and are collinear. divides in the ratio .
Step 1: Find position vectors
Position vector of
Position vector of
Position vector of
Step 2: Find vectors AB, BC, and AC
Step 3: Calculate magnitudes
Step 4: Verify collinearity
Since , the points , , and are collinear.
Step 5: Find the ratio
∴ divides in the ratio 2:3.
Explanation
This question tests understanding of collinearity using vector magnitudes. The key insight from the textbook context is that when , the equality condition of the triangle inequality holds, proving collinearity. The ratio is found by comparing the distances and directly from their magnitudes.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Express position vectors of , , in component form
Step 2: Calculate vectors , , and using subtraction
Step 3: Find magnitudes of all three vectors
Step 4: Verify to prove collinearity
Step 5: Determine ratio from their magnitudes