SPS SPS FM 2025 February — Question 6 8 marks

Exam BoardSPS
ModuleSPS FM (SPS FM)
Year2025
SessionFebruary
Marks8
TopicVectors 3D & Lines
TypeShow lines intersect and find intersection point
DifficultyStandard +0.3 This is a standard Further Maths vector geometry question requiring routine techniques: equating components to find intersection (solving simultaneous equations), then using the scalar product formula for angle between direction vectors. While it involves multiple steps and careful algebra, it follows a well-practiced procedure with no novel insight required, making it slightly easier than average.
Spec4.04a Line equations: 2D and 3D, cartesian and vector forms4.04c Scalar product: calculate and use for angles4.04e Line intersections: parallel, skew, or intersecting

The equations of two lines are \(\mathbf{r} = \mathbf{i} + 2\mathbf{j} + \lambda(2\mathbf{i} + \mathbf{j} + 3\mathbf{k})\) and \(\mathbf{r} = 6\mathbf{i} + 8\mathbf{j} + \mathbf{k} + \mu(\mathbf{i} + 4\mathbf{j} - 5\mathbf{k})\).
  1. Show that these lines meet, and find the coordinates of the point of intersection. [5]
  2. Find the acute angle between these lines. [3]

The equations of two lines are

$\mathbf{r} = \mathbf{i} + 2\mathbf{j} + \lambda(2\mathbf{i} + \mathbf{j} + 3\mathbf{k})$ and $\mathbf{r} = 6\mathbf{i} + 8\mathbf{j} + \mathbf{k} + \mu(\mathbf{i} + 4\mathbf{j} - 5\mathbf{k})$.

\begin{enumerate}[label=(\roman*)]
\item Show that these lines meet, and find the coordinates of the point of intersection.
[5]

\item Find the acute angle between these lines.
[3]
\end{enumerate}

\hfill \mbox{\textit{SPS SPS FM 2025 Q6 [8]}}