How can area be a vector? (flux equation)

[mujadeo]

Homework Statement

How can area be a vector? ( flux = E-vector dot product A-vector )
?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[tyco05]

If my memory serves me correctly the area vector's direction is given by the normal to the surface.

It allows for us to define the plane in which the area lies.

 

[ogb p]

Area cannot be considered a vector in the traditional sense, as it does not have magnitude or direction. However, in the context of the flux equation, area is used as a vector to represent the orientation of a surface with respect to the electric field. This allows for the calculation of the electric flux, which is a scalar quantity. The dot product between the electric field vector and the area vector takes into account the perpendicular component of the electric field to the surface, which is necessary for accurately calculating the flux. Therefore, while area itself is not a vector, it is used as a vector in the flux equation to accurately describe the relationship between the electric field and the surface.