Is the curl of a vector perpendicular to the vector?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of ∇ (del) being considered as a vector in some cases, specifically in the case of (∇× E).E = (-∂B/∂t).E = -∂(B.E)/∂t = 0. It is noted that B and E can be arbitrarily dependent on t, and therefore B.E = 0. The discussion also mentions that B and E are magnetic and electric fields respectively, and that this relationship means that they are always perpendicular to each other. Lastly, the conversation briefly touches on the properties of ∇ in Vector Calculus and its relationship to the concept of curl.
  • #1
Pushoam
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I am asking this because ∇ is also considered as a vector in some cases. Considering it as a vector in this case ,too,
( ∇× E).E = (- ∂ B/∂t).E = - ∂ (B.E)/∂t =0

Since B and E could be arbitrarily dependent on t,
B.E = 0

where B and E are magnetic and electric fields respectively.
This means that B and E are always perpendicular to each other.
 
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1. What is the definition of a curl of a vector?

The curl of a vector is a mathematical operation that describes the rate and direction of rotation of a vector field at a particular point.

2. How is the curl of a vector calculated?

The curl of a vector is calculated using the vector calculus operator called the cross product or vector product. It involves taking the partial derivatives of the vector components and combining them using the cross product formula.

3. Is the curl of a vector a vector or a scalar?

The curl of a vector is a vector. This means that it has both magnitude and direction, and can be represented by an arrow in a three-dimensional space.

4. Can the curl of a vector be zero?

Yes, the curl of a vector can be zero. This means that the vector field is irrotational, and there is no rotation at any point in the field.

5. Is the curl of a vector perpendicular to the vector itself?

Yes, the curl of a vector is always perpendicular to the vector itself. This is because the curl measures the rotation of a vector field, and the direction of rotation is always perpendicular to the direction of the vector.

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