Question:

Vectors \( \vec{a} = 3\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} + 2\hat{k} \) and \( \vec{b} = \hat{i} + 2\hat{k} \) represent the two adjacent sides of a parallelogram. Find the vectors representing its diagonals and hence find their lengths.

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One diagonal is the sum, representing the vector from origin to opposite vertex.
The other diagonal is the difference, representing the vector connecting the endpoints of side vectors.
Updated On: Sep 10, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Concept:
• Parallelogram Law: If \( \vec{a} \) and \( \vec{b} \) are adjacent sides, then the diagonals are \( \vec{a} + \vec{b} \) and \( \vec{a} - \vec{b} \).

Step 1:
Find the first diagonal vector \( \vec{d_1} \)
\[ \vec{d_1} = \vec{a} + \vec{b} \] \[ = (3\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} + 2\hat{k}) + (\hat{i} + 0\hat{j} + 2\hat{k}) \] \[ = 4\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} + 4\hat{k} \]

Step 2:
Find the second diagonal vector \( \vec{d_2} \)
\[ \vec{d_2} = \vec{a} - \vec{b} \] \[ = (3\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} + 2\hat{k}) - (\hat{i} + 0\hat{j} + 2\hat{k}) \] \[ = 2\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} + 0\hat{k} = 2\hat{i} - 2\hat{j} \]

Step 3:
Calculate the lengths of the diagonals
Length of \( \vec{d_1} \): \[ | \vec{d_1} | = \sqrt{4^2 + (-2)^2 + 4^2} = \sqrt{16 + 4 + 16} = \sqrt{36} = 6 \] Length of \( \vec{d_2} \): \[ | \vec{d_2} | = \sqrt{2^2 + (-2)^2} = \sqrt{4 + 4} = \sqrt{8} = 2\sqrt{2} \]
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