Calculate the Curl of a Velocity vector field

In summary, the conversation discusses using the Stoke's theorem and vector calculus to show that the curl of the rotational velocity of a solid object is equal to twice the angular velocity. The person asking the question is stuck with calculations and asks for guidance, to which the expert responds by suggesting the use of a specific relationship and identities of vector calculus. The expert also mentions that the angular velocity should be treated as a constant vector in the identity being used.
  • #1
themagiciant95
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Homework Statement



The velocity of a solid object rotating about an axis is a field [tex]\bar{v} (x,y,z)[/tex]
Show that [tex]\bar{\bigtriangledown }\times \bar{v} = 2\,\bar{\omega }[/tex], where [tex]\bar{\omega }[/tex] is the angular velocity.

Homework Equations



3. The Attempt at a Solution [/B]

I tried to use the Stoke's theorem using an infinitesimal element with trapezoidal shape, but i was stuck with calculations. Which is the best way to resolve the equation ? It would be fantastic if you could explain me the geometric intuition behind the problem
 
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  • #2
Just use the relationship ##\vec{v}(x,y,z)=\vec{\omega}\times(x\vec{i}+y\vec{j}+z\vec{k})## and some identities of vector calculus about the curl operator.

The main identity you ll use is the first one found here : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Curl_(mathematics)#Identities. Notice that you ll treat ##\vec{\omega}## as a constant vector in this identity so it will be ##\nabla\cdot\vec{\omega}=0## , ##\vec{F}\cdot\nabla \vec{\omega}=0## e.t.c
 
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  • #3
Thanks so much =)
 
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What is the curl of a velocity vector field?

The curl of a velocity vector field is a mathematical operation that determines the rotation or spin of the fluid velocity at a specific point in the field. It is a vector quantity that represents the magnitude and direction of the rotation.

How is the curl of a velocity vector field calculated?

The curl of a velocity vector field can be calculated using the cross product of the gradient operator (∇) and the velocity vector field (V). This can be expressed as curl(V) = ∇ x V. The resulting vector will have components along the x, y, and z axes.

What does a positive or negative curl value indicate?

A positive curl value indicates that the fluid is rotating in a counterclockwise direction at a certain point in the field, while a negative curl value indicates a clockwise rotation. A zero curl value indicates that there is no rotation at that point.

What are some real-world applications of calculating the curl of a velocity vector field?

The curl of a velocity vector field is used in fluid mechanics to analyze the motion of fluids such as air and water. It is also used in meteorology to study atmospheric circulation patterns and in electromagnetism to analyze the behavior of magnetic fields.

Are there any limitations to calculating the curl of a velocity vector field?

One limitation is that the curl can only be calculated for continuous and differentiable vector fields. It also only provides information about the rotational component of the vector field and does not account for any other factors such as pressure or viscosity. Additionally, the accuracy of the calculation may be affected by the choice of coordinate system.

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