Flux of Vector Field within Sphere: Find Flux of Given Vector Field

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    Divergence Flux
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the flux of a vector field through spheres of varying radii, given specific properties of the vector field and its divergence. The context is centered around the application of the divergence theorem in vector calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the divergence theorem and the relationship between the flux through different spherical regions. There is an exploration of how to calculate the flux through specific regions and the order of operations for subtraction of flux values.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing guidance on the use of the divergence theorem. There is a clear progression in the discussion as participants clarify their understanding of the steps needed to find the flux through the specified regions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of the problem's parameters, including the defined regions for the vector field's divergence and the known flux values for certain spheres. There is an emphasis on ensuring the correct order of operations when calculating flux differences.

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Homework Statement



Suppose \vec{G} is a vector field with the property that div\vec{G} = 5 for 2 \leq ||\vec{r}|| \leq 14 and that the flux of \vec{G} through the sphere of radius 4 centered at the origin is 20\pi. Find the flux of through the sphere of radius 12 centered at the origin.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



what I tried so far is

20\pi \int_0^{2\pi} \int_0^{\pi} \int_0^{12} \rho^2 sin(\phi)d\rho d\phi d\theta

is this wrong
 
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No integration is needed for this problem. The flux through the region 2 < R < 4 is just

5(volume of region 2 < R < 4)

by the divergence theorem. Use this, together with the fact that the flux through 0 < R < 4 is 20π, to find the flux through the region 0 < R < 2.

Can you see how to take it from here?
 
ok so after I got the flux through region 2< r< 4and through 0 < r< 4 I just substract it right?
 
Yes, but in which order are you going to do the subtraction?
 
it's the 0<r<4 - 2<r<4 correct?
 
Correct.
 

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