How Does the Divergence Theorem Apply in Vector Calculus and PDE?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on applying the Divergence Theorem in vector calculus to prove the equality of integrals involving a smooth function f over a bounded domain D and its boundary ∂D. Specifically, it demonstrates that the integral of the partial derivative f_y over D equals the surface integral of f multiplied by the outer normal component n_2 over ∂D. Additionally, it explores verifying the integral of the curl of a vector function F over the boundary using both Stokes' Theorem and the Divergence Theorem. Participants emphasize the importance of these concepts for students in vector calculus and partial differential equations (PDE).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Divergence Theorem in vector calculus
  • Familiarity with Stokes' Theorem
  • Knowledge of smooth functions and their properties
  • Basic concepts of partial differential equations (PDE)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Divergence Theorem and its applications in vector calculus
  • Learn Stokes' Theorem and its implications for vector fields
  • Explore the properties of curl and divergence in three-dimensional space
  • Investigate the relationship between vector calculus and partial differential equations
USEFUL FOR

Students in vector calculus and partial differential equations, educators teaching these subjects, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Divergence Theorem and its applications in mathematical analysis.

Tony11235
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Suppose [tex]D \subset \Re^3[/tex] is a bounded, smooth domain with boundary [tex]\partial D[/tex] having outer unit normal [tex]n = (n_1, n_2, n_3)[/tex]. Suppose [tex]f: \Re^3 \rightarrow \Re[/tex] is a given smooth function. Use the divergence theorem to prove that

[tex]\int_{D} f_{y}(x, y, z)dxdydz = \int_{\partial D} f(x, y, z)n_2(x, y, z)dS[/tex]

I think I see how they might be equal but I don't know where to start as far as proving it.
 
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Hint:
Consider the vector function:
[tex]F(x,y,z)=(0,f(x,y,z),0)[/tex]
 
While we're on it, I have another similar question. Say F:R^3 -> R^3 is a C^1 function, verifty that

[tex]\int_{\partial D} \nabla \times F \cdot n dS = 0[/tex]

in two ways, first using Stokes theorem, then using the Divergence theorem.

By the way, I'm currently in vector calculus and at the same time first semester PDE. We don't cover the divergence theorem and such until way later into the semester. But our PDE book requires that you have some minor knowlegde of these theorems. And that's what our professor is having us do right now, especially for those of us that are currently in vector calculus.
 
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