Calculate the Curl of a Velocity vector field

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the curl of a velocity vector field, specifically demonstrating that the curl of the velocity field \(\bar{v}(x,y,z)\) equals \(2\bar{\omega}\), where \(\bar{\omega}\) represents the angular velocity. Participants suggest using Stokes' theorem and vector calculus identities, particularly the relationship \(\vec{v}(x,y,z) = \vec{\omega} \times (x\vec{i} + y\vec{j} + z\vec{k})\). The discussion emphasizes treating \(\vec{\omega}\) as a constant vector, which simplifies the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, specifically curl and divergence
  • Familiarity with Stokes' theorem
  • Knowledge of angular velocity in physics
  • Proficiency in manipulating vector identities
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Stokes' theorem in detail to understand its applications in vector calculus
  • Learn about vector calculus identities, particularly those related to curl
  • Explore the geometric interpretation of curl in fluid dynamics
  • Investigate the properties of angular velocity and its implications in rotational motion
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics and engineering, particularly those studying fluid dynamics, rotational motion, and vector calculus applications.

themagiciant95
Messages
56
Reaction score
5

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
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Delta2
Physics news on Phys.org
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
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: themagiciant95
Thanks so much =)
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Delta2

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
878
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K
Replies
52
Views
5K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
5K
Replies
6
Views
7K
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
3K
  • · Replies 54 ·
2
Replies
54
Views
4K