Drawing a simple vector field issue

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding a vector field defined by the function F(x,y,z) = zj and F(x,y,z) = yj, where j represents a unit vector in the positive y direction. Participants are exploring the implications of these definitions in relation to the coordinate system and the orientation of the vectors in space.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to clarify the behavior of the vector field in relation to the z-coordinate and its effect on the direction of the vectors. Questions arise regarding the meaning of being "in the y plane" and the implications of the coordinate system orientation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into the direction of the vectors based on the z-values. Some have confirmed that the vectors point in the positive or negative y direction depending on the sign of z, while others are questioning the definitions and assumptions being made.

Contextual Notes

There are ongoing discussions about the definitions of planes and vector orientations, with some participants seeking clarification on terminology and the implications of the coordinate system setup.

mr_coffee
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Hello everyone I'm not sure if this is right or not...

If i have

F(x,y,z) = zj; where j is the vector, j hat.

Would that be all vectors are going to be pointing up if you assume z is up, and are in the y plane?


If the coordinate system is, z is up, y is to the right, and x is pointing at you.

If i had F(x,y,z) = yj; the answer is, No vectors emanate from the xz plane since y = 0 there. In each plane y = b, all the vectors are identical.
 
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No. j is a unit vector pointing in the same direction as the +y axis. Which you seem to want to call 'right'. The length of the vectors is proportional to their z coordinate. What is the 'y plane'? What does 'in' a plane mean? Parallel to?
 
I worked it out and it seems the vectors are pointing parrallel to the +y axis which is pointing right, for values > 0, and for values < 0 its pointing to the left or in the -y direction.
 
mr_coffee said:
I worked it out and it seems the vectors are pointing parrallel to the +y axis which is pointing right, for values > 0, and for values < 0 its pointing to the left or in the -y direction.

That's the right picture (where 'values' means z, right).
 
z is a number, j is a vector pointing in the positive y direction. Your vector field consists of vector pointing in the positive y direction, longer as z increases. (And pointing in the negative y direction for z negative.)
 

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