Derivative of a vector expression?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the time derivative of the vector expression \(\frac{\vec{E}\times\vec{B}}{B^2}\), where \(\vec{E}\) is a constant vector field and \(\vec{B}\) is a time-dependent vector field. The derived expression is confirmed as \(\frac{1}{B^4}\left[B^2(\vec{E}\times\dot{\vec{B}})-2B\dot{B}(\vec{E}\times\vec{B})\right]\). The participants agree on the correctness of the calculation, noting the absence of further simplification. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying vector calculus in time-dependent scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, particularly cross products and derivatives.
  • Familiarity with time-dependent vector fields in physics.
  • Knowledge of the notation for derivatives, especially in the context of vectors.
  • Basic principles of electromagnetism, particularly the roles of electric and magnetic fields.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the product rule in vector calculus.
  • Learn about the implications of time-dependent fields in electromagnetism.
  • Explore advanced topics in vector calculus, such as the Levi-Civita symbol and its applications.
  • Investigate the physical significance of the derived expression in electromagnetic theory.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, engineers, and students studying electromagnetism and vector calculus, particularly those working with time-dependent vector fields.

quarky2001
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I'm trying to find the time derivative of the following function, where E is a constant, spatially uniform vector field, and B is as well, but B varies with time.

<br /> \frac{d}{dt}\left(\frac{\vec{E}\times\vec{B}}{B^2}\right)<br />

Remembering that B is time dependent and E is not, I've calculated the derivative of this as (where a dot above the letter indicates a time derivative):

<br /> \frac{1}{B^4}\left[B^2(\vec{E}\times\dot{\vec{B}})-2B\dot{B}(\vec{E}\times\vec{B})\right]<br />

Can anyone tell me if this is correct?
 
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That looks fine to me, assuming you mean a dot product between B and its derivative.
 
Whoops, forgot that! Thanks for checking it though. It's a shame it doesn't simplify more, but so long as it's correct I'm fine with it.
 

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