A vector calculus proof question

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The discussion revolves around a vector calculus proof involving the dot product of the gradient of a function with a differential vector. Participants clarify that the goal is to demonstrate how the dot product of grad(∅) with dr leads to the expression for d(∅) in the context of the total derivative. One user expresses initial confusion about the first steps but receives guidance on writing dr and grad(∅) in terms of unit vectors for the dot product calculation. The conversation highlights a collaborative effort to understand the problem and confirms that the approach discussed aligns with the hint provided. Overall, the thread emphasizes the importance of breaking down complex calculus concepts into manageable steps.
physics2000
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Homework Statement



The image contains the problem statement and all relevant equations. I have no idea what to do, this is all very new to me...plus the hint doesn't make sense to me.

[url=http://postimage.org/][PLAIN]http://s13.postimage.org/b0kq27bkn/photo_6.jpg[/url] photo uploader[/PLAIN]
 
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physics2000 said:

Homework Statement



The image contains the problem statement and all relevant equations. I have no idea what to do, this is all very new to me...plus the hint doesn't make sense to me.

[url=http://postimage.org/][PLAIN]http://s13.postimage.org/b0kq27bkn/photo_6.jpg[/url] photo uploader[/PLAIN]

I think they just want you to show that the dot product of grad(∅) with dr gives you the expression for d(∅) in the expression for the total derivative in the hint.
 
I kind of understand what you mean, but not sure what the first step is:confused:
 
physics2000 said:
I kind of understand what you mean, but not sure what the first step is:confused:

You've got dr in terms of the unit vectors with the hats on them. Write out grad(phi) in terms of the unit vectors and take the dot product.
 
Dick said:
You've got dr in terms of the unit vectors with the hats on them. Write out grad(phi) in terms of the unit vectors and take the dot product.

is this what you mean?... i think I was overthinking it , thanks for your help!

[url=http://postimage.org/][PLAIN]http://s2.postimage.org/rgazdfeih/photo_7.jpg[/url] online photo storage[/PLAIN]
 
Yes, I think that's what they want.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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