Does a Time-Dependent Vector Rotate Around a Fixed Vector?

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SUMMARY

A time-dependent vector v, defined by the equation \(\frac{d}{dt}\br{v} = \br{q}\times v \perp \br{v}\), indicates that vector v rotates around the fixed vector q as time progresses. The cross product \(\br{q}\times v\) confirms that the change in vector v is perpendicular to v itself, leading to a precession effect. Visualizing this relationship through a diagram further clarifies the rotational behavior of vector v around vector q.

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Niles
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Hi all

Say I have a time-dependent vector v. Let's say that I find

[tex] \frac{d}{dt}\br{v} = \br{q}\times v \perp \br{v},[/tex]

where q is a vector. Am I allowed to conclude that the vector v rotates around q as time evolves?
 
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Oh, I realized it now. It becomes clear when you make a drawing that the vector v really does rotate (precess) around q as time evolves.

Thanks.
 

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