How Does the Divergence Theorem Apply in Vector Calculus and PDE?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on applying the divergence theorem in vector calculus to prove a specific integral identity involving a smooth function and its boundary. A suggested approach is to consider the vector function F(x,y,z) = (0, f(x,y,z), 0) to facilitate the proof. Additionally, there is a related query about verifying that the integral of the curl of a vector function over the boundary of a domain equals zero, using both Stokes' theorem and the divergence theorem. The participant notes their current coursework in vector calculus and PDEs, highlighting the early introduction of these concepts despite their later coverage in the curriculum. Understanding these theorems is essential for progressing in their studies.
Tony11235
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Suppose D \subset \Re^3 is a bounded, smooth domain with boundary \partial D having outer unit normal n = (n_1, n_2, n_3). Suppose f: \Re^3 \rightarrow \Re is a given smooth function. Use the divergence theorem to prove that

\int_{D} f_{y}(x, y, z)dxdydz = \int_{\partial D} f(x, y, z)n_2(x, y, z)dS

I think I see how they might be equal but I don't know where to start as far as proving it.
 
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Hint:
Consider the vector function:
F(x,y,z)=(0,f(x,y,z),0)
 
While we're on it, I have another similar question. Say F:R^3 -> R^3 is a C^1 function, verifty that

\int_{\partial D} \nabla \times F \cdot n dS = 0

in two ways, first using Stokes theorem, then using the Divergence theorem.

By the way, I'm currently in vector calculus and at the same time first semester PDE. We don't cover the divergence theorem and such until way later into the semester. But our PDE book requires that you have some minor knowlegde of these theorems. And that's what our professor is having us do right now, especially for those of us that are currently in vector calculus.
 
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