Graphical Cross Product in 3-D

Author:
Dave Nero

Instructions

This simulation calculates the cross product for any two vectors. A geometrical interpretation of the cross product is drawn and its value is calculated. Move the vectors A and B by clicking on them (click once to move in the xy-plane, and a second time to move in the z-direction). Each space on the grid is one unit. The display can be rotated, panned, and zoomed using the standard convention for your device.
  1. When is the cross product zero?
  2. Can you adjust A and B to make the cross product have a magnitude of 6 in the -x-direction?
  3. Calculate the cross product for A and B by hand and verify that it matches the work sheet.