Show that Vector function lies on a sphere

In summary, the question asks to show that for a vector-valued function r, if its graph lies on a sphere centered at the origin, then r(t) and r'(t) must be perpendicular for all t. This can be proven by showing that if ||r(t)|| = c, then the dot product of r(t) and r'(t) must equal 0. Conversely, if r(t) and r'(t) are perpendicular, then the graph of r must lie on a sphere centered at the origin. This can be shown by differentiating ||r(t)|| = c and using the dot product property. Therefore, r(t) and r'(t) being perpendicular is both a necessary and sufficient condition for the graph
  • #1
karens
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0

Homework Statement



Let r1 and r2 be differentiable 3-space vector-valued functions.

Show that for a differentiable 3-space vector-valued function r, the graph of r lies on a sphere centered at the origin if and only if r(t) and r′(t) are orthogonal (perpendicular) for all t.

Homework Equations



Dot products?

The Attempt at a Solution


If R(t) is on the surface of such a sphere then ||R(t)||=C, is constant.
 
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  • #2
so, if i;m interpreting this correctly if ||r(t)||=c, then you could write it as:

[tex] \textbf{r}(t) \bullet \textbf{r}(t) = c^2 [/tex]
how about differentiating...

note that as the question has "if & only if" you must show both directions, necessary & sufficient" to complete the proof
 

1. What is a vector function?

A vector function is a mathematical function that maps a set of scalar inputs to a set of vector outputs. It can be represented as a vector-valued function or a vector field.

2. How can a vector function be shown to lie on a sphere?

A vector function can be shown to lie on a sphere by satisfying the equation x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = r^2, where (x,y,z) represents the components of the vector and r is the radius of the sphere.

3. What are the steps to show that a vector function lies on a sphere?

The steps to show that a vector function lies on a sphere are:
1. Write the vector function in terms of its components.
2. Square each component and add them together.
3. Simplify the resulting equation by factoring out any common terms.
4. Compare the resulting equation to x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = r^2. If they are equal, then the vector function lies on a sphere.

4. Can a vector function lie on a sphere with a radius of 0?

No, a vector function cannot lie on a sphere with a radius of 0. This is because the equation x^2 + y^2 + z^2 = r^2 would not be satisfied, as any vector with non-zero components would result in a non-zero radius.

5. Is it possible for a vector function to lie on multiple spheres?

Yes, it is possible for a vector function to lie on multiple spheres. This can occur when the vector function has multiple components that satisfy different sphere equations with different radii.

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