How Do You Solve a Complex Divergence Problem Using Spherical Coordinates?

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    Calc 3 Divergence
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SUMMARY

The forum discussion focuses on solving a complex divergence problem using spherical coordinates, specifically parameterizing the vector function F(x,y,z) = . The user attempts to set up the limit and integral for the divergence, utilizing the volume of a sphere and the limit definition of divergence. Key challenges include performing the dot product and converting the surface element dS into Cartesian coordinates, as the professor has indicated that a change of variables is not permitted. The discussion highlights the difficulties faced by the class due to the professor's disorganization and the complexity of the assigned problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, specifically divergence and parameterization.
  • Familiarity with spherical coordinates and their application in multivariable calculus.
  • Knowledge of the limit definition of divergence and its mathematical implications.
  • Proficiency in using LaTeX for mathematical expressions and integrals.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the process of converting surface elements from spherical to Cartesian coordinates.
  • Learn about the Jacobian determinant and its role in changing variables in integrals.
  • Review the properties and applications of the divergence theorem in vector calculus.
  • Practice solving divergence problems using various coordinate systems to enhance understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Students in advanced calculus or vector calculus courses, particularly those struggling with divergence problems and coordinate transformations. This discussion is also beneficial for educators seeking insights into common student challenges in understanding spherical coordinates.

[Quadratic]
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Homework Statement


Apologies for the attachment.

XuIvD8u.png

Homework Equations


Limit definition of the divergence as seen in attachment
Volume of a sphere: \frac{4}{3}\pi r^{3}

The Attempt at a Solution


The first thing I did was parameterize the vector function F(x,y,z) = <xy,x,y+z>
My parameterization is as follows:

<br /> x = a+rcos\vartheta sin\varphi \\<br /> y = b+rsin\vartheta sin\varphi \\<br /> z = c+rcos\varphi \\<br /> dS = S_{\varphi} X S_{\vartheta} d\varphi d\vartheta<br />

Setting up the limit and integral:
<br /> lim_{r\rightarrow0}\frac{1}{\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3} \int^{2\pi}_{\vartheta=0} \int^{\pi}_{\varphi=0} &lt;(a + rcos\vartheta sin\varphi)(b + rsin\vartheta sin\varphi),a + rcos\vartheta sin\varphi,rsin\vartheta sin\varphi + c + rcos\varphi&gt; \bullet S_{\varphi} X S_{\vartheta} d\varphi d\vartheta \\<br />

I apologize for the large attachment and my messy latex. Any suggestions to clean it up are welcome. Am I on the right track so far, before I continue? I tried using the Jacobian thinking it would clean up the integrand but I didn't really get anywhere, and my professor told me we are not doing a change of variables here. Thanks in advance.
 
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You somehow have to perform the dot product. You have F in Cartesian but not dS. I assume you're allowed to put dS in Cartesian? If not, I don't know how you're expected to continue.
 
haruspex said:
You somehow have to perform the dot product. You have F in Cartesian but not dS. I assume you're allowed to put dS in Cartesian? If not, I don't know how you're expected to continue.

I really don't know. My teacher is rather "disorganized" to put it lightly and frequently makes mistakes on our exams. For example our last exam had 12 problems, and 5 of them had pretty critical errors and were not corrected until around an hour into the exam. He also assigns us problems that require methods he skips over in his lectures. Look at me, now I'm just complaining :)

Almost everyone in the class is having trouble with this, and our professor assured us he worked this one out and it is solvable.
 
[Quadratic];4574654 said:
I really don't know. My teacher is rather "disorganized" to put it lightly and frequently makes mistakes on our exams. For example our last exam had 12 problems, and 5 of them had pretty critical errors and were not corrected until around an hour into the exam. He also assigns us problems that require methods he skips over in his lectures. Look at me, now I'm just complaining :)

Almost everyone in the class is having trouble with this, and our professor assured us he worked this one out and it is solvable.

OK, so assume you're allowed to put dS in Cartesian. Have you tried that?
 

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