Divergence theorem (determining the correct direction for normal vecto

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Miike012
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The problem is in the paint doc.. My question is why is the base vector aR have a negative sign attached to it?
 
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  • Scanned textbook page, Example 2-15: concentric spherical shell with radii R1 and R2 and a dS surface element, with Fig. 2-22 showing the spherical shell region; the inner surface integral is written as -a_R R1^2 sin theta d theta d phi, integrating to -4 pi R1^2.
    NN.jpg
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Discussion

Miike012 said:
The problem is in the paint doc.. My question is why is the base vector aR have a negative sign attached to it?
In applying the divergence theorem, the normal vector is always outwardly directed from your system.
 

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