Stokes theorem equivalent for cross product line integral

In summary, Stokes theorem states that the vector path integral of a closed curve is equivalent to the flux of the curl of the vector field through any surface bound by the closed path. However, there is no equivalent theorem for the closed path integral of the cross product of a vector field with the differential line segment, so this line integral must be evaluated directly.
  • #1
Defennder
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"Stokes theorem" equivalent for cross product line integral

Homework Statement


I am aware that the vector path integral of a closed curve under certain conditions is equivalent to the flux of of the curl of the vector field through any surface bound by the closed path. In other words, Stokes theorem:

[tex]\oint_S \textbf{F} \cdot d\textbf{r} = \int_S \nabla \times \textbf{F} \cdot d\textbf{S}[/tex]

But how about the closed path integral of the cross product of a vector field with the differential line segment:

[tex]\oint \textbf{F} \times d\textbf{r}[/tex]

Is there any vector calculus theorem paralleling the Stokes theorem for a closed path integral I can use without me having to evaluate the line integral directly?
 
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  • #2


Anyone?
 
  • #3


As far as I know, no, there isn't any such theorem.
 
  • #4


[itex]\oint_{C} \mathrm{d} \mathbf{l} \times \mathbf{F} = \int \int_{S} \left( \mathrm{d} \mathbf{S} \times \nabla \right) \times \mathbf{F}[/itex], this one?
 
  • #5

What is Stokes theorem equivalent for cross product line integral?

Stokes theorem states that the line integral of a vector field around a closed curve is equal to the surface integral of the curl of the vector field over the surface bounded by the curve. The equivalent for cross product line integral is the line integral of the cross product between the vector field and the tangent vector over a given curve, which is also equal to the surface integral of the normal component of the vector field over the surface bounded by the curve.

What is the difference between Stokes theorem and the equivalent for cross product line integral?

The main difference is that Stokes theorem applies to vector fields, while the equivalent for cross product line integral applies specifically to the cross product between a vector field and the tangent vector. This means that the vector field must be able to be expressed as a cross product in order for the equivalent to be applicable.

How is the equivalent for cross product line integral derived?

The equivalent for cross product line integral can be derived from Stokes theorem by taking the surface integral of the normal component of the vector field and using the divergence theorem to convert it into a line integral over the boundary curve. This line integral can then be rewritten as a cross product between the vector field and the tangent vector, resulting in the equivalent formula.

In what situations is the equivalent for cross product line integral useful?

The equivalent for cross product line integral is particularly useful in situations where the vector field is already expressed as a cross product, as it allows for a more direct calculation of the line integral without having to convert it into a surface integral. It is also useful for calculating line integrals over curves in three-dimensional space.

Are there any limitations or restrictions for using the equivalent for cross product line integral?

Yes, as mentioned before, the vector field must be able to be expressed as a cross product in order for the equivalent to be applicable. Additionally, the curve must be a closed curve, otherwise the equivalent does not hold. It also only applies to three-dimensional vector fields and curves.

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