Flux & Circulation Homework: Find Values & Prove Non-Zero Flux

  • Thread starter Thread starter 6.28318531
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Circulation Flux
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the circulation and flux of the vector field F(x,y) = (P(x,y), Q(x,y)) around the closed curve C defined by x² + y² = 1. It is established that F(-x, -y) ≠ 0, with P(x,y) being an odd function in x and Q(x,y) being an even function in y. The analysis reveals that the total flux across C is non-zero due to the unequal contributions from the quadrants, specifically that the integrals in the first and third quadrants do not cancel out with those in the second and fourth quadrants.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector fields and their properties
  • Familiarity with line integrals and their applications in circulation and flux
  • Knowledge of parametrization techniques for curves in multivariable calculus
  • Concept of odd and even functions in relation to symmetry
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Green's Theorem in relation to circulation and flux
  • Explore the properties of odd and even functions in vector calculus
  • Learn about parametrizing curves in polar coordinates for complex shapes
  • Investigate the implications of non-zero flux in physical contexts, such as fluid dynamics
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in multivariable calculus, particularly those focusing on vector fields, circulation, and flux concepts. This discussion is also beneficial for anyone preparing for advanced mathematics or physics examinations.

6.28318531
Messages
51
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Let F(x,y) = ( P(x,y), Q(x,y)) be a vector field that is continuously differentiable along the closed smooth curve C : x2+y2 = 1. Moreover let

-F(x,y) = F( -x, -y)≠ 0 and

P(x,y) = -P(-x,y) and Q(x,y) = Q(-x,y).

Determine all the possible values of the circulation around C, and argue why flux across C is non zero.

Homework Equations



Circulation = ∫CF. T ds , T tangent vector
Flux = ∫CF. N ds , N normal vector

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not quite sure where to begin . Do we parametrize C by r(t) = (cos t, sin t) 0≤ t≤ 2\pi, and then use the definitions of flux and circulation?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
From the given relations among F, P and Q you can deduce how they are related in all four quadrants. What will that mean with regard to the integrals?
 
Ah now I see for the flux part;

Look at each quadrant {x,y>0} {x,y<0} {x>0, y<0} and {x<0,y>0}

When x, y> 0, The integral evaluates to a value.

Let ∫CF.n ds = f

Then for x,y<0

the integral becomes ∫F( -P, -Q) .n ds = - f

Then for x> 0, y< 0
∫F(P(x,-y), Q(x,-y)).n ds= a ≠f


Then for x< 0, y> 0

∫F(P(-x,y),Q(-x,y)).n ds =∫ F( -P(x,y),Q(x,y)).n ds =b ≠a.

So you can see the total flux is non zero. The two regions x,y>0 and x,y<0 cancel out
and the other two are not equal.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
2K