What is the difference between unit vectors v and r?

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of unit vectors and their relationship to derivatives. The mistake of equating ##\frac{\partial \theta}{\partial r}## to zero is pointed out and it is clarified that this does not mean that ##\frac{d \theta}{d r}## is also zero.
  • #1
Jhenrique
685
4
Follow the 1st ideia: [tex]\\ d\vec{r} = dr \hat{r} + r d\theta \hat{\theta} \\ \\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \frac{dr}{dr} \hat{r} + r \frac{d\theta}{dr}\hat{\theta} \\ \\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \hat{r}[/tex] and now: [tex]\\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \frac{d\vec{r}}{dt} \frac{dt}{dr} = \frac{d\vec{r}}{dt} \frac{1}{\frac{dr}{dt}} = \frac{\vec{v}}{v} = \hat{v}[/tex] However, is obvious that the unit vectos v and r are different. So, where I'm wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You've made this same mistake before, Jhenrique. Just because ##\frac{\partial \theta}{\partial r} \equiv 0## does not mean that ##\frac{d \theta}{d r} = 0##.
 

1. What are unit vectors?

Unit vectors are vectors that have a magnitude of 1 and are used to represent a direction in space. They are typically denoted by a hat symbol (^) above the vector symbol.

2. How are unit vectors used in mathematics and science?

Unit vectors are used to simplify calculations and represent directions in mathematical and scientific equations. They are also commonly used in physics, engineering, and computer graphics.

3. What is the difference between a unit vector and a normal vector?

A unit vector has a magnitude of 1, while a normal vector can have any magnitude. Unit vectors are used to represent direction, while normal vectors are used to represent a perpendicular direction to a given vector.

4. How are unit vectors calculated?

To calculate a unit vector, divide each component of a given vector by its magnitude. This will result in a vector with a magnitude of 1, representing the direction of the original vector.

5. Can unit vectors be negative?

No, unit vectors cannot be negative. They always have a magnitude of 1 and are used to represent a direction, not a quantity with a sign.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
265
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
440
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
770
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
166
Replies
6
Views
932
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
898
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
132
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
963
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
206
Back
Top