Vector field of gradient vector and contour plot

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between the gradient vector function and the contour graph of a given function. It is mentioned that the gradient is always perpendicular to the contour graph, but this may not be evident in the provided plot due to missing level curves. Suggestions are given to improve the visualization, but it is noted that the plot already shows the expected relationship between the gradient and the level curves.
  • #1
Leo Liu
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Homework Statement
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Relevant Equations
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1624441288502.png

Given the equation ##\frac{xy} 3##. It is a fact that the gradient vector function is always perpendicular to the contour graph of the origional function. However it is not so evident in the plot above. Any thought will be appreciated.
 
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  • #2
Leo Liu said:
However it is not so evident in the plot above.
Why do you say that? It looks true to me in the plot.
 
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  • #3
FactChecker said:
Why do you say that? It looks true to me in the plot.
Some of the level curves are missing. Maybe I should decrease the sampling interval for the level curves?
 
  • #4
The level curves are all hyperbolas. Try imagining a couple more of them and see if it's crosses through the gradients perpendicularly.
 
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  • #5
Leo Liu said:
Given the equation ##\frac{xy} 3##. It is a fact that the gradient vector function is always perpendicular to the contour graph of the origional function. However it is not so evident in the plot above. Any thought will be appreciated.
##xy/3## is a scalar field, it is not an equation. An equation requires an equal sign.

Apart from that, it is quite apparent from the plot that the gradient is orthogonal to all of the level curves you have provided. I do not understand what more you want from such a plot.
 
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What is a vector field?

A vector field is a mathematical concept used to describe the behavior of a vector quantity, such as velocity or force, at every point in a given space. It is represented by a collection of arrows, each pointing in a specific direction and magnitude, which can be used to visualize the direction and strength of the vector at any point in the field.

What is the gradient vector of a scalar function?

The gradient vector of a scalar function is a vector that represents the direction and rate of change of the function at any given point. It is calculated by taking the partial derivatives of the function with respect to each variable and combining them into a vector. The magnitude of the gradient vector represents the steepness of the function at that point, while the direction of the vector points in the direction of the greatest increase.

What is a contour plot?

A contour plot is a graphical representation of a scalar function in two dimensions. It is created by drawing a series of curves, called contours, that connect points with the same value of the function. These contours can be used to visualize the shape and behavior of the function, with closer contours indicating a steeper change in the function.

How are vector fields and contour plots related?

Vector fields and contour plots are closely related, as they both provide information about the behavior of a scalar function. The vector field shows the direction and magnitude of the gradient vector at each point, while the contour plot shows the shape and magnitude of the function itself. Together, these visualizations can provide a more complete understanding of the function and its behavior.

What are some real-world applications of vector fields and contour plots?

Vector fields and contour plots have many practical applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and meteorology. They can be used to model and analyze the flow of fluids, such as air and water, in various systems. They are also useful in visualizing and understanding complex data sets, such as weather patterns and economic trends. Additionally, they are used in computer graphics and animation to create realistic simulations of natural phenomena.

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