How do I cross Del with (scalar*vector)?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on demonstrating the vector calculus identity ∇ x (αB) = ∇α x B + α∇ x B, where α is a scalar field and B is a vector field. Participants express uncertainty about how to apply the cross product involving a scalar and the nabla operator. The left side is approached using the Levi-Civita symbol, while attempts to simplify the right side lead to confusion regarding the components involved. The importance of breaking down the expression into manageable parts is emphasized, suggesting that revisiting definitions and component forms may clarify the solution. Understanding the properties of the curl and the operations on scalar and vector fields is crucial for solving the problem correctly.
Fido
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Show that for any scalar field α and vector field B:

∇ x (αB) = ∇α x B + α∇ x B

Homework Equations



(∇ x B)i = εijk vk,j
(∇α)i = αi
(u x v)i = eijkujvk

The Attempt at a Solution


Since α is a scalar i wasn't quite sure how to cross it with ∇

So on the left side I have:
εijkBk,j αi

I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to solve out the left side to get to the right because that what I did for the previous problem.

The right side all I could get it to simplify to was:
αi x B + α∇ x B
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Nabla cross product with something is the curl of the thing right?
http://www.math.ucla.edu/~ronmiech/Calculus_Problems/32B/chap14/section5/930d31/930_31.html
 
  • Like
Likes Fido
So does that mean that my left side is just εijk Bk,j α ? I feel like it's supposed to be broken up into two parts
 
Last edited:
It needs to if you are going to get RHS = LHS ... if in doubt go back to the definitions.
Maybe look at ##(\alpha B)_i## also see what the RHS looks like in components. Play around until you understand it.
 
Back
Top