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Quaternions and Rotations

Age 16 to 18
Challenge Level Yellow starYellow starYellow star
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Comparing the results in parts (1) and (2) we see that in part (1) $q = \cos 45^o + \sin 45^o{\bf i}$ and the map $qvq^{-1}$ fixes the x-axis and gives a rotation of twice 45 degrees about the x-axis.

The result in (2) is slightly more general showing that where $q = \cos \theta + \sin \theta {\bf k}$ the map $q v q^{-1}$ fixes the z-axis and gives a rotation of $2\theta$ about the z-axis. \par For a more general account of quaternions and rotations see the article....

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The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice.

NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.

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