1
$\begingroup$

I was reading up a little on reference frames and am confused about a certain detail. Is it correct to say that the positive $x$-axis, for example, can be defined as follows?

$ X^+ = \lim_{C \rightarrow \, 0^+} C^{-1}\langle 1,0,0\rangle \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ \ (1) $

Here, $\langle a_1, a_2, a_3\rangle$ represents the vector with origin at $(0,0,0)$ and terminal point at $(a_1, a_2, a_3)$. Also, this is just a question I have, not something I read. Thanks to all in advance.

  • 0
    There was an error concerning $C$. I've fixed that now.2012-03-07

1 Answers 1

2

No, it wouldn't be correct to say that. Firstly, the limit of a sequence of vectors is just another vector (if it exists); and secondly, that sequence of vectors has no limit. Also, I'd say that an axis consists of points, not vectors.

So a correct alternative would be: the set $\{(a_1,0,0)\in\mathbb{R}^3\mid a_1>0\}$ forms the positive $x$-axis in $\mathbb{R}^3$. You could also use $\displaystyle\bigcup_{C>0}\{C(1,0,0)\}.$

  • 0
    Thank you, I enjoy rereading them often :)2012-03-07