Divergence and curl rule simplification?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the simplification of vector identities involving divergence and curl operations, particularly in the context of the equation presented in the online ebook "Electromagnetic Field Theory" (page 24). The user seeks clarification on the notation involving the backward divergence symbol and its application in the expression for simplifying the integral of a vector field. The solution provided involves the use of the identity curl(curl(a)) = grad(div(a)) - laplace(a) and demonstrates the integration of the Laplacian and gradient operations with respect to different variables, specifically x and x'.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, specifically divergence and curl operations.
  • Familiarity with integral calculus, particularly in the context of vector fields.
  • Knowledge of the notation and operations involving the del operator (∇).
  • Experience with electromagnetic field theory concepts as outlined in the referenced ebook.
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  • Study the properties and applications of the del operator in vector calculus.
  • Learn about the simplification of vector identities involving integrals in electromagnetic theory.
  • Explore the implications of the identity curl(curl(a)) = grad(div(a)) - laplace(a) in practical scenarios.
  • Research advanced topics in vector calculus, such as the use of scalar and vector potentials in field theory.
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This discussion is beneficial for students and professionals in physics and engineering, particularly those specializing in electromagnetic field theory, vector calculus, and mathematical physics.

Durato
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Just for reference, i got this question from reading an online ebook:
http://www.plasma.uu.se/CED/Book/EMFT_Book.pdf
The bottom equation on page 24 is where i these equations came up.

I have been reading some stuff and i keep coming across an annotation which looks exactly
like a divergence symbol except backwards.
V dot (del sign)

Specifically, it was used as follows:
[j(x') dot del']del'(1/(abs(x-x')))

where del is the upside triangle symbol and x and x' are just two different variables.
del' operates only on the x' symbol.

Also, can anyone point me out to any online reference which shows how to simplify
vector identities which include integrals. Example:

Homework Statement



Simplify Kcurl(curl(integral(d^3x'*j(x')/abs(x-x'))))
where, again, x and x' are two independent variables and d^3x' just represent the volume
differential (not a variable!)

Homework Equations


curl(curl(a)) = grad(div(a))-laplace(a)

The Attempt at a Solution


No clue where to start. But their solution was as follows:
= -K*(integral(d^3x'j(x')laplace(1/(abs(x-x'))))
+K*(integral(d^3x'[j(x') dot del']grad'(1/(abs(x-x')))))

where del' or grad' just means do in terms of x' variable.

I got lost when they started using grad' and dot del' in the second integral, even though
they had used a curl in terms of x, not x'.
 
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Read this page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Del

That should take care of your first concern. Apropos your second concern, the integral seems to be acting like a scalar.
 

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