Closed curve line integral of gradient using Green's Theorem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the equality of closed curve line integrals of gradients using Green's Theorem, specifically the equation \(\oint_C{f\nabla g\cdot d\alpha}=-\oint_C{g\nabla f\cdot d\alpha}\) for piecewise Jordan curves \(C\). Participants reference Apostol's text, particularly page 386, and utilize the relationship \(\nabla(fg) = f\nabla g + g\nabla f\) as a key step in the proof. The consensus is that this approach simplifies the proof significantly.

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Apostol page 386, problem 5

Homework Statement


Given f,g continuously differentiable on open connected S in the plane, show
\oint_C{f\nabla g\cdot d\alpha}=-\oint_C{g\nabla f\cdot d\alpha}
for any piecewise Jordan curve C.

Homework Equations


1. Green's Theorem
2. \frac{\partial P}{\partial y}=\frac{\partial Q}{\partial x} for \nabla f,\nabla g


The Attempt at a Solution


I need some general direction on this one...
 
Last edited:
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Use that grad(fg)=f*grad(g)+g*grad(f), maybe?
 
\begin{facepalm*}
that makes it about a 2 second proof then
\end{facepalm*}
-thanks
 

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