Finding The Divergence Of A Vector Field

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the divergence of a given vector field, specifically the vector field defined as . The context involves applying the divergence theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the divergence and compares their result with that from Wolfram Alpha, noting a discrepancy in the final term. Some participants question whether all terms were correctly differentiated.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging in clarifying the calculations involved in finding the divergence. Guidance has been offered regarding the differentiation of specific terms, indicating a productive direction in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions the lack of an answer key, which may contribute to the uncertainty in verifying their solution.

Baumer8993
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Homework Statement


Find The Divergence Of The Vector Field:
< ex2 -2xy, sin(y^2), 3yz-2x>


Homework Equations


I know that divergence is ∇ dot F.


The Attempt at a Solution


When I did it by hand I got
2xex2 + 2ycos(y2) + 3y

However wolfram alpha says it should be

2xex2 + 2ycos(y^2) + y

The difference is the last y. So who is right? This is for a divergence theorem problem, but I do not have an answer key.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When you worked out the first term, you forgot to differentiate the -2xy.
If you include this, your answer will agree with Wolfram.
 
Hi Baumer8993! :smile:

- 2xy ? :wink:
 
Oh wow, thank you for the help!
 

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