Verifying Orthogonal Curvilinear Coordinate System

In summary, an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is a mathematical framework used for describing the position and orientation of points in space. It is verified by ensuring that the basis vectors are orthogonal to each other, and this is important for maintaining accuracy in calculations and measurements. Some real-world applications of this system include physics, engineering, and computer graphics. However, limitations include difficulties defining points and complex transformations.
  • #1
latentcorpse
1,444
0
For the transformation
[itex]u_1=2x-y[/itex]
[itex]u_2=x+2y[/itex]
[itex]u_3=3z[/itex]

verify that the [itex]u_i[/itex] form an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system
 
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  • #2
any ideas? how do you show ui & uj are orthogonal when j does not equal i
 
  • #3
show dot product is 0.
if [itex]u_1=(2x,-y,0),u_2=(x,2y,0)[/itex] then
[itex]u_1 \cdot u_2 = 2x^2 -2y^2 \neq 0[/itex] though
 
  • #4
Are you sure that the vectors aren't supposed to be:
[tex]\vec{u_1}=2\hat{x}-\hat{y}[/tex]
[tex]\vec{u_2}=\hat{x}+2\hat{y}[/tex]
[tex]\vec{u_2}=3\hat{z}[/tex]

...there is a big difference between the scalar [itex]x[/itex] and the unit vector [tex]\hat{x}[/tex]!:wink:
 

1. What is an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system?

An orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is a mathematical framework used to describe the position and orientation of points in space. It is composed of a set of three coordinate axes that are mutually perpendicular and intersect at a single point, allowing for a three-dimensional representation of space.

2. How is an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system verified?

An orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is verified by ensuring that the basis vectors (i.e. the three coordinate axes) are orthogonal to each other at any given point in space. This can be done by calculating the dot product between each pair of basis vectors and ensuring that it is equal to zero.

3. What is the importance of verifying an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system?

Verifying an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is crucial in ensuring the accuracy of any calculations or measurements made using this system. If the system is not properly verified, it can lead to errors and inaccuracies in data analysis and interpretation.

4. What are some real-world applications of an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system?

An orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is commonly used in fields such as physics, engineering, and mathematics to describe the position and orientation of objects in space. It is also used in computer graphics and animation to create three-dimensional models.

5. Are there any limitations to using an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system?

One limitation of using an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system is that it can be difficult to define at points where the basis vectors are undefined or become infinite. Additionally, transformations to other coordinate systems may be complex and require advanced mathematical techniques.

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