Class CBSE Class 12 Mathematics Vector Algebra Q #858
KNOWLEDGE BASED
APPLY
1 Marks 2023 MCQ SINGLE
If a vector makes an angle of $\frac{\pi}{4}$ with the positive directions of both x-axis and y-axis, then the angle which it makes with positive z-axis is :
(A) $\frac{\pi}{4}$
(B) $\frac{3\pi}{4}$
(C) $\frac{\pi}{2}$
(D) 0

AI Tutor Explanation

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Step-by-Step Solution

Let the vector be $\vec{r}$. Let $\alpha$, $\beta$, and $\gamma$ be the angles made by the vector $\vec{r}$ with the positive x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis, respectively.

Given, $\alpha = \frac{\pi}{4}$ and $\beta = \frac{\pi}{4}$. We need to find $\gamma$.

We know that the sum of the squares of the direction cosines is equal to 1, i.e.,

$\cos^2{\alpha} + \cos^2{\beta} + \cos^2{\gamma} = 1$

Substituting the given values, we have:

$\cos^2{\frac{\pi}{4}} + \cos^2{\frac{\pi}{4}} + \cos^2{\gamma} = 1$

$(\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}})^2 + (\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}})^2 + \cos^2{\gamma} = 1$

$\frac{1}{2} + \frac{1}{2} + \cos^2{\gamma} = 1$

$1 + \cos^2{\gamma} = 1$

$\cos^2{\gamma} = 0$

$\cos{\gamma} = 0$

Therefore, $\gamma = \frac{\pi}{2}$

Correct Answer: $\frac{\pi}{2}$

AI Suggestion: Option C

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Pedagogical Audit
Bloom's Analysis: This is an APPLY question because the student needs to apply the knowledge of direction cosines and the relationship between them to find the angle with the z-axis.
Knowledge Dimension: PROCEDURAL
Justification: The question requires the student to follow a specific procedure involving the application of the formula relating direction cosines to find the unknown angle.
Syllabus Audit: In the context of CBSE Class 12, this is classified as KNOWLEDGE. The question directly tests the student's understanding and application of concepts related to direction cosines and direction ratios, which are core components of the textbook syllabus.