Does Green's Theorem Apply to Clockwise Oriented Curves?

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Green's Theorem is typically applied to positively oriented (counterclockwise) curves, but it can also be adapted for clockwise orientations by considering the negative version of the integral. The theorem indicates that reversing the orientation of the curve changes the sign of the integral. Specifically, the relationship between the integrals for clockwise and counterclockwise orientations is established as the negative of each other. Thus, the conclusion is that the theorem remains valid regardless of the curve's orientation. Understanding this distinction is crucial for correctly applying Green's Theorem in various contexts.
linearfish
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As far as I know, Green's Theorem is normally stated for positively oriented curves (counterclockwise). If a curve is oriented clockwise, is it just the negative version?

\oint Pdx + Qdy = - \int\int \frac{\partial Q}{\partial x} - \frac{\partial P}{\partial y} = \int\int \frac{\partial P}{\partial y} - \frac{\partial Q}{\partial x}
 
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Hi :smile:
Greens formula tells whether you go clockwise or opposite direction on curve.
\oint_{K} \left(P(x,y)dx+Q(x,y)dy \right)=- \oint_{-K} \left(P(x,y)dx + Q(x,y)dy\right)
<br /> \iint_{S}\left[\frac{\partial Q(x,y)}{\partial x} - \frac{\partial P(x,y)}{\partial y} \left]\;dxdy = (-)\iint_{S}\left[\frac{-\partial Q(x,y)}{\partial x} + \frac{\partial P(x,y)}{\partial y} \left]\;dxdy<br />

The conclusion \oint_{K} f(x)\;dx= - \oint_{-K} f(x)\;dx and yes it is the same.

I hope I helped you :smile:

MrSnoopy
 
Thanks, that does help.
 
No problem :wink:
 

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