Find Curvature of r(t)=2ti+2tj+k

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the curvature of the vector function r(t) = 2ti + 2tj + k. The context is centered around vector calculus and the specific application of curvature formulas.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for curvature and the components of the vector function, specifically r'(t) and r''(t). There are attempts to clarify the meaning of notation, particularly regarding the magnitude of vectors.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the interpretation of vector magnitudes and the correct application of curvature formulas. There is a focus on understanding the notation used in the problem.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note confusion regarding the notation used for vector magnitudes, specifically the use of "abs()" versus "modulus". There is an emphasis on ensuring clarity in mathematical terminology.

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Homework Statement


Find the curvature of r(t)=2ti+2tj+k.

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer is 0 in the book.
I know the formula for curvature is k(t)=abs(r'(t)xr"(t))/abs(r'(t))^3. I know that r'(t)=2i+2j and r"(t)=0, so r'(t)xr"(t)=0? How to find r'(t)xr"(t) and r'(t)^3?
 
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Math10 said:

Homework Statement


Find the curvature of r(t)=2ti+2tj+k.

Homework Equations


None.

The Attempt at a Solution


The answer is 0 in the book.
I know the formula for curvature is k(t)=abs(r'(t)xr"(t))/abs(r'(t))^3. I know that r'(t)=2i+2j and r"(t)=0, so r'(t)xr"(t)=0?
Yes.
Math10 said:
How to find r'(t)xr"(t) and r'(t)^3?
r'(t)r''(t) = 0, which you already found. What is |r'(t)|? Note that this means the magnitude or length of r'(t).
 
So how do I find abs(r'(t))? That's where I got stuck.
 
Math10 said:
So how do I find abs(r'(t))? That's where I got stuck.

The notation |r'(t)| does not mean the absolute value of r'(t), it means to find the magnitude of the vector r'(t). Think Pythagoras.
 
SteamKing said:
The notation |r'(t)| does not mean the absolute value of r'(t), it means to find the magnitude of the vector r'(t). Think Pythagoras.
The problem is that Math10 quoted the formula using abs() instead of modulus.
It should be ##k(t)=\frac{|\dot{\vec r}(t)\times \ddot {\vec r}(t)|}{|\dot{\vec r}(t)|^3}##
 
Math10 said:
So how do I find abs(r'(t))? That's where I got stuck.
Three of us have told you that |r'(t)| does not mean "absolute value". It means "magnitude" or "length" of the vector r'(t).
 

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