Evaluating ∫∫(∇xF).n dS: Divergence vs. Stokes' Theorem

In summary, the conversation discusses the evaluation of a surface integral using both the divergence theorem and Stokes' theorem. The question arises of how the divergence theorem, which involves a dot product, can be applied to a problem that asks for the curl. It is suggested to treat \nabla \times F as a new vector and use it in the divergence theorem. The conversation also mentions a previous post on the same topic and advises to use the same thread for any further questions.
  • #1
jaejoon89
195
0
Given F = xyz i + (y^2 + 1) j + z^3 k
Let S be the surface of the unit cube 0 ≤ x, y, z ≤ 1. Evaluate the surface integral ∫∫(∇xF).n dS using
a) the divergence theorem
b) using Stokes' theorem


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Since the divergence theorem involves a dot product rather than a curl,how would it apply in this problem (which asks for the curl)?
 
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  • #2
You would treat [tex]\nabla \times F[/tex] as a new vector, and just use it in the divergence theorem.
 
  • #3
Hi jaejoon89,

You already posted this question, and someone has replied to it. If you have any further questions, use the same thread.
 

1. What is the difference between Divergence and Stokes' Theorem?

Divergence and Stokes' Theorem are two different mathematical concepts used to evaluate the integral of a vector field over a surface. Divergence is used to calculate the flux (flow) of a vector field through a closed surface, while Stokes' Theorem is used to calculate the circulation of a vector field around a closed curve.

2. When should I use Divergence and when should I use Stokes' Theorem?

It depends on the problem at hand. If you are trying to calculate the amount of a vector field that is passing through a closed surface, then Divergence is the appropriate method to use. On the other hand, if you are trying to calculate the circulation of a vector field around a closed curve, then Stokes' Theorem should be used.

3. What is the formula for Divergence?

The formula for Divergence is given by ∫∫(∇xF).n dS, where ∇xF represents the divergence of a vector field and n is the unit normal vector to the surface over which the integral is being evaluated.

4. What is the formula for Stokes' Theorem?

The formula for Stokes' Theorem is given by ∫(∇xF).ds = ∫∫(∇x∇xF).n dS, where ∇xF represents the curl of a vector field, ds is a line element along the boundary curve, and n is the unit normal vector to the surface over which the integral is being evaluated.

5. Can Divergence and Stokes' Theorem be used interchangeably?

No, Divergence and Stokes' Theorem are two distinct concepts and cannot be used interchangeably. They have different formulas and are used to solve different types of problems. However, in some cases, they can be related to each other through a mathematical identity called the Divergence Theorem.

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