Finding Flux of $\vec{F}$ Outward Across Sphere

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the flux of the vector field \(\vec{F}=(x, y, z)\) outward across the surface of a sphere defined by the equation \(x^2+y^2+z^2=a^2\). Participants are exploring the integration process and the geometric implications of the sphere's surface area.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss their attempts to set up the integral for flux and express confusion regarding the use of polar coordinates and the integration limits. Questions arise about the relevance of the radial distance \(r\) and the surface area of the sphere. There is also a discussion about the projection of the sphere onto the xy-plane and its implications for the integration process.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their reasoning and questioning assumptions about the integration method and the geometric interpretation of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the surface area of the sphere and the nature of the vector field.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of integrating over a spherical surface and the implications of treating the vector field as radial. There is a mention of the expected result for the flux, which adds to the discussion about the correctness of their approaches.

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Homework Statement


Find the flux of \vec{F}=(x, y, z) outward across the sphere x^2+y^2+z^2=a^2.


I am able to get it to this point:
\int\int_Cadxdy and I then convert it to polar coordinates, and integrate rdr from 0 to a, and theta from zero to 2pi. However, this does not give me the correct result, as the answer is 4a^3*pi, and I am getting a^3*pi.
 
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hi sandy.bridge! :smile:
sandy.bridge said:
I am able to get it to this point:
\int\int_Cadxdy and I then convert it to polar coordinates, and integrate rdr from 0 to a, and theta from zero to 2pi. However, this does not give me the correct result, as the answer is 4a^3*pi, and I am getting a^3*pi.

it's the surface of a sphere …

what does r have to do with it? :confused:

(and why are you integrating? surely you know the surface area of a sphere? :wink:)
 
Okay, well I know that once I get it to this point, it's right:
\int\int_CadS=\int\int_Ca(1)dxdy

The projection of the sphere on the xy-plane is a circle, no? So why can I not use
dxdy=rdrd\theta?
 
sandy.bridge said:
The projection of the sphere on the xy-plane is a circle, no?

projection? are you treating F as if it was a parallel field along one of the axes? :confused:

in that case, yes, the projection perpendicular to the field would be a circle

but the given F is radial ((x,y,z) = t), and constant in magnitude over the sphere,

so you just need the amount of surface it cuts through, which is 4πa2
 

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