Discussion Overview
The discussion focuses on drawing planes in Mathematica that are normal to a given vector, specifically using polar coordinates for the angles Theta and Phi. Participants explore how these planes intersect with the (111) planes in silicon crystals, seeking assistance with code and visualizations.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Exploratory
- Mathematical reasoning
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks help in drawing a plane normal to a vector defined in polar coordinates, aiming to visualize intersections with silicon crystal planes.
- Another participant shares a code snippet for plotting a plane using the specified polar coordinates and expresses gratitude for previous suggestions.
- A later reply introduces a Manipulate function to dynamically adjust Theta, Phi, and R, noting changes in the visual output based on these parameters.
- One participant questions the behavior of the visual output when Theta is set to zero, observing that changes in Phi and R do not affect the display in this case.
- Another participant clarifies that when Theta is zero, the normal vector points directly upward, which explains why variations in Phi do not result in visible changes, as the vector revolves around itself.
- This participant also notes that R should not influence the plane's definition since it is determined by the normal unit vector, not its magnitude.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the definitions of Theta and Phi and their roles in determining the orientation of the plane. However, there is a lack of consensus on the implications of setting Theta to zero and its effects on the visual representation.
Contextual Notes
The discussion involves assumptions about the definitions of angles in polar coordinates and their impact on the visualization of planes in Mathematica. There are unresolved aspects regarding the behavior of the visual output when specific parameter values are used.