How to prove that a scalar potential exists if the curl of the vector point function is zero?

Thus, the potential exists. So the scalar potential can be obtained by integrating the vector point function whose curl is zero, and this can be shown by establishing a starting point and using the closed curve integral to define the potential at all other points.
  • #1
immortalsameer13
2
1
scalar potential can be obtained by integrating the vector point function whose curl is zero but how to arrive at this result that a potential exist
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
First show that if ##\mathrm{rot}\, v=0## then ##\int_Cv_xdx+v_ydy+v_zdz=0## for any closed curve ##C##. To do that
consider a 2-dimensional surface ##S## such that ##\partial S=C##
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes FactChecker and topsquark
  • #3
immortalsameer13 said:
scalar potential can be obtained by integrating the vector point function whose curl is zero but how to arrive at this result that a potential exist
Because the closed curve integral is zero, the one-way integral from one point to another has only one answer no matter which path is taken. So the one-way integral gives you a well-defined definition of the potential.

ADDED: Establish a starting point, ##p_0##, for the beginning of a path to any and all other points. The integral values from ##p_0## to the other points gives a well-defined potential at those points.
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes immortalsameer13

1. How do you define a scalar potential?

A scalar potential is a mathematical function that assigns a scalar value to each point in space. It is used to describe the potential energy of a conservative force, such as gravity or electric fields.

2. What is the relationship between the curl of a vector point function and the existence of a scalar potential?

If the curl of a vector point function is zero, it indicates that the vector field is conservative. This means that it can be expressed as the gradient of a scalar potential.

3. How can you prove that a scalar potential exists if the curl of the vector point function is zero?

The proof involves showing that the vector field is irrotational, meaning that it has zero curl. This can be done using vector calculus techniques, such as the gradient, divergence, and curl operators.

4. What are the implications of a scalar potential existing?

If a scalar potential exists, it means that the vector field is conservative and can be described by a single scalar function. This simplifies calculations and allows for easier analysis of the field.

5. Can a scalar potential exist even if the curl of the vector point function is not zero?

No, if the curl of the vector point function is not zero, it indicates that the vector field is non-conservative and cannot be described by a scalar potential. In this case, other mathematical techniques, such as line integrals, must be used to analyze the field.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
310
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • General Math
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • MATLAB, Maple, Mathematica, LaTeX
Replies
2
Views
837
  • Calculus
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
985
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
952
Replies
2
Views
308
Back
Top