Gradient theorem by the divergence theorem

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the divergence theorem to establish the gradient theorem, specifically in the context of a scalar function ψ and its relationship to a vector quantity ds over a closed region R bounded by a surface S.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the interpretation of the divergence theorem and its application to the components of a vector field. There is a discussion on how to express the scalar function ψ in terms of the vector field F and the implications of integrating gradients over a volume. Questions arise regarding the nature of the quantities involved, particularly the distinction between scalar and vector forms.

Discussion Status

Some participants are attempting to clarify the relationship between the components of the vector field and the scalar function. There is a suggestion to simplify the problem by considering cases where only one component of F is non-zero. Guidance is provided on how to approach the integration and the interpretation of the gradient theorem in a three-dimensional context.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of language barriers affecting comprehension, and some participants express uncertainty about the definitions and assumptions underlying the problem. The original poster notes a time constraint due to an impending deadline.

advphys
Messages
17
Reaction score
0
Hi to all

Homework Statement



∫∫∫∇ψdv = ∫∫ψ ds
over R over S

R is the region closed by a surface S

here dv and ψ are given as scalars and ds is given as a vector quantitiy.
and questions asks for establishing the gradient theorem by appliying the divergence theorem to each component

Homework Equations



Divergence theorem
∫∫∫∇.Fdv=∫∫F.ds

The Attempt at a Solution



i tried writing ψ as some components or some functions of F. i actually tried lots of thing like writing ds or ψ or F in open forms.
but probably i do not understand what it means by "to each component"
and i couldn't find the way that i should approach to the question.

this homework is due tomorrow, so i would really appreciate any help.

Thanks a lot.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
advphys said:
∫∫∫∇ψdv = ∫∫ψ ds
over R over S

R is the region closed by a surface S

here dv and ψ are given as scalars and ds is given as a vector quantitiy.
and questions asks for establishing the gradient theorem by appliying the divergence theorem to each component
I don't think this is right. ds is not making a dot product with anything. Also, integrating a gradient over a volume will not get you anything useful.

advphys said:
Divergence theorem
∫∫∫∇.Fdv=∫∫F.ds
This is the key. Start from this. Now, this equation involves the vector F. But you can also 'interpret' this as an equation involving three scalars, which are each of the components of F. Start with the simple case, where only one of the components of F is non-zero. Now, see what you get. And think of the equation for the gradient theorem, try to get to that. And make your equation as simple as you want, what should you make as the Gaussian surface, and what should F depend on? (it is your choice, remember)
 
Hmm, ok.

I choose as F= Fx i + 0j+0k
∇.F=Fx
then the right side becomes also integration of (Fx ds sub x)
so, for the x component i think i can say
∇ψ=Fx
but here ∇ψ is a vector quantitiy but Fx is scalar now. How could it be?
 
hold on. You chose F=Fx i
That is good. So from here, what is ∇.F ?
Right-hand side is correct, it is Fx ds (where ds is perpendicular to x direction).
And the idea is that Fx=ψ.
 
i'm a bit late...english isn't my native languaje so please excuse my gramatical errors... the man that replied you made a mistake. the identity is well written as you wrote it. there is nothing wrong with the vector quantity dS, that stands for N.ds being N the normal of the surface. This thing that you have there is the gradient theorem generalization for 3d manifolds. It is prooven quite like the divergence theorem using the definition of gradient that you will find in the text I'm providing you. If you speak spanish, this: http://www.esi2.us.es/DFA/CEMI/Teoria/Tema1.pdf could help. search for "teorema del gradiente" and you will finde the gradient theorem. Search for "Definición intrínseca de gradiente" and you will find the definition of gradient that you must use for the proof. good luck.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K