Cross Products: Solve For A Given B z-hat

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a scalar function A given that the gradient of A, denoted as B, is equal to B z-hat. The subject area involves vector calculus, specifically the concepts of gradient and curl.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of being given only the z-component of the gradient of A, questioning how this affects the possible forms of A. There is discussion about the mathematical operations involved, particularly the use of anti-derivatives or indefinite integrals.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the nature of the problem, noting that multiple solutions may exist depending on the assumptions made about the function A. There is an acknowledgment of a potential misunderstanding regarding the original question, with one participant correcting themselves to clarify that they meant "curl" instead of "gradient."

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a previous thread addressing the same question, indicating that the topic may have been discussed before, which could influence the current discussion dynamics.

Nusc
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Homework Statement


B = grad(A)

Find A
If one is given B z-hat

Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



What mathematical operation would I apply to solve this?
 
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Do you know what grad is?
[tex]B= \nabla A= \left(\frac{\partial}{\partial x}\hat{\textbf{x}} + \frac{\partial}{\partial y}\hat{\textbf{y}} + \frac{\partial}{\partial z}\hat{\textbf{z}}\right) A[/tex]
 
By "one is given B z-hat" do you mean you are given only the z-component of grad A?
Then there are many solutions. For example, if we are given that the z-component of grad A, then A can be any function of x,y- as long as it has no dependence on z, the z-component of grad A is 0.

Since the grad of a function is a derivative, the "mathematical operation" you would use to find A is the anti-derivative or "indefinite" integral.
 
HallsofIvy said:
By "one is given B z-hat" do you mean you are given only the z-component of grad A?


Then there are many solutions. For example, if we are given that the z-component of grad A, then A can be any function of x,y- as long as it has no dependence on z, the z-component of grad A is 0.

No

Since the grad of a function is a derivative, the "mathematical operation" you would use to find A is the anti-derivative or "indefinite" integral.
 
SOrry folks I meant Curl
 
Nusc said:
SOrry folks I meant Curl

You already have another thread on exactly the same question
 

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