Can Vector Field G on R^3 Exist?

  • Thread starter briteliner
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In summary, a vector field G cannot exist on all points in R^3 due to the infinite nature of the space. However, it is possible for a vector field G to be continuous on R^3, and in order for it to exist, it must satisfy certain conditions such as the three-dimensional vector calculus equations and have a well-defined direction and magnitude at each point. To determine if a vector field G exists on a specific subset of R^3, the divergence theorem or Stokes' theorem can be used to evaluate the flux or circulation over the boundary. Real-world applications of vector fields on R^3 include modeling and understanding electric and magnetic fields, fluid flow, and other physical phenomena in various fields.
  • #1
briteliner
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Homework Statement


can there be a vector field G on R^3 such that G=<xsiny, cosy, z-xy>?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

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the answer is no, but i don't understand why. any help is appreciated, thanks
 
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  • #2
G IS a vector field on R^3. I don't think you have the question right.
 
  • #3
i checked again, i have the question right, and in the back of the book it says no
 
  • #4
Ok. Then what is your definition of 'vector field'?
 

1. Can a vector field G exist on all points in R^3?

No, a vector field G cannot exist on all points in R^3 because R^3 is an infinite space and there is no way to define a vector at every single point.

2. Is it possible for a vector field G to be continuous on R^3?

Yes, it is possible for a vector field G to be continuous on R^3. In fact, many real-world physical phenomena can be described using continuous vector fields.

3. What conditions must be met for a vector field G to exist on R^3?

In order for a vector field G to exist on R^3, it must satisfy the three-dimensional vector calculus equations, such as the divergence and curl equations. Additionally, it must have a well-defined direction and magnitude at each point in R^3.

4. How can we determine if a vector field G exists on a specific subset of R^3?

To determine if a vector field G exists on a specific subset of R^3, we can use the divergence theorem or Stokes' theorem to evaluate the flux or circulation of the vector field over the boundary of the subset. If the value is non-zero, then a vector field G exists on that subset.

5. Are there any real-world applications of vector fields on R^3?

Yes, vector fields on R^3 have many real-world applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and fluid dynamics. They are used to model and understand the behavior of electric and magnetic fields, fluid flow, and other physical phenomena.

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