9709 P31 - Nov 2011 - Q7
2162
With respect to the origin O, the position vectors of two points A and B are given by \(\overrightarrow{OA} = \mathbf{i} + 2\mathbf{j} + 2\mathbf{k}\) and \(\overrightarrow{OB} = 3\mathbf{i} + 4\mathbf{j}\). The point P lies on the line through A and B, and \(\overrightarrow{AP} = \lambda \overrightarrow{AB}\).
- Show that \(\overrightarrow{OP} = (1 + 2\lambda)\mathbf{i} + (2 + 2\lambda)\mathbf{j} + (2 - 2\lambda)\mathbf{k}\).
- By equating expressions for \(\cos AOP\) and \(\cos BOP\) in terms of \(\lambda\), find the value of \(\lambda\) for which \(OP\) bisects the angle \(AOB\).
- When \(\lambda\) has this value, verify that \(AP : PB = OA : OB\).
