Difficult derivative involving vectors and trig

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of the derivative of the angle φ between two vectors a and b, defined as a = f × g and b = h × g. The user seeks clarification on the expression for the derivative dφ/df, which is derived from the relationships involving the sine and cosine of φ. The key conclusion is that the derivative can be expressed as dφ/df = -|g|/|a|² · a, highlighting the relationship between the magnitudes of the vectors and their cross product.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, specifically derivatives involving cross products.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities related to sine and cosine.
  • Knowledge of vector notation and operations in three-dimensional space.
  • Basic understanding of differentiation techniques in multivariable calculus.
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  • Study vector calculus, focusing on derivatives of vector functions.
  • Learn about the properties of cross products and their geometric interpretations.
  • Explore trigonometric derivatives and their applications in physics and engineering.
  • Investigate the implications of vector magnitudes in angular relationships.
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Students and professionals in mathematics, physics, and engineering who are working with vector calculus and need to understand derivatives involving trigonometric functions and vector operations.

Tornam
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Hello,

I am working through some very old (1980's) computer code and need to understand how a particular derivative was calculated. Can someone explain to me how it is that if:

[itex]\vec{a}=\vec{f}\times\vec{g}[/itex]
[itex]\vec{b}=\vec{h}\times\vec{g}[/itex]

and

[itex]sin(\phi)=\frac{\left|\vec{a}\times\vec{b}\right|}{\left|a\right|\left|b\right|}[/itex]
[itex]cos(\phi)=\frac{\vec{a}\cdot\vec{b}}{\left|a\right|\left|b\right|}[/itex]

then:

[itex]\frac{d\phi}{d\vec{f}} = -\frac{\left|g\right|}{\left|a\right|^2}\cdot\vec{a}[/itex]?

I would very much appreciate any help with this!

Thanks :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have you tried differentiating sin phi wrt f?
 

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