Explain why the divergence of each of the functions must be zero

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on explaining why the divergence of given functions must be zero, relating to their corresponding electric fields. For A1, the electric field is constant, indicating zero divergence. A2 and A3 represent charge distributions, suggesting that the amount of electric field lines entering a region equals those leaving, leading to zero divergence. The concept of divergence reflects the balance of flux in and out of a volume, supporting the argument for all functions presented. Understanding these functions in the context of charge distributions is crucial for the explanation.
brad sue
Messages
270
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


the question is:
Without doing any calculations, explain why the divergence of each of the functions must be zero(Hint: consider what electric field these functions physically correspond to)
P.S: I make the unit vectors in bold.

A1=x

A2=ρ(1/ρ) with ρ>0

A3=r(1/r2) with r>0

Homework Equations


I think we need to argue about the charge



The Attempt at a Solution



for A1 , the electric field of A! is a plane, which constant, so divergence is zero.

for A2, it seems to be a line of charge but I don know how to argue for the divergence to be zero.

Same for A3

Can someone see what is going on?
B
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Divergence shows the flux through some kind of area, so it indicates how much "stuff" flows in compared to out. This is basically going to be your argument for every single one, is that somehow as much stuff flows in as out.

Are the vectors rho and r supposed to represent spherical and cylindrical coordinates?
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
21
Views
5K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
15K
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K