Integration of a vector with respect to a vector.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the integration of a vector with respect to another vector, specifically in the context of calculating electric flux from a point charge within a solid surface. The user expresses confusion regarding the relationship between the dot product and the definite integral, particularly in evaluating the integral of the electric field dot da from limits a to b. Recommendations for further study include taking a vector calculus course and seeking beginner-friendly literature on the subject.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus concepts
  • Familiarity with electric flux and its applications
  • Knowledge of dot products and their geometric interpretation
  • Basic grasp of limits and definite integrals
NEXT STEPS
  • Study "Vector Calculus" by Jerrold E. Marsden and Anthony J. Tromba
  • Learn about the Divergence Theorem and its applications in electromagnetism
  • Explore the concept of surface integrals in vector fields
  • Investigate the relationship between electric fields and potential functions
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics and engineering, particularly those focusing on electromagnetism and vector calculus, will benefit from this discussion.

Ceeerson
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will someone give me an explanation of the process of integration of a vector with respect to another vector. the reason i ask is because in the topic of electricity i am discussing the electric flux of a point charge inside a solid surface. I know that the dot product is related, and i can even see how the limit as the number of subintervals approaches infinity, then Ʃ running from k = 1 to n of the vector f(x*)times the vector(Δx*) times (cosθ ) is equal to the definite integral, it would just take forever to count and and i wouldn't know how to evaluate the integral without knowing the antiderivates, my main concern is integrating from a to b of the electric field dot da, and while on the topic, will someone please explain how area can be a vector please, i know that you can pull out all the constants, but and even the antiderivative of 1/r^2 but i just don't understand the integration and what happens. if that makes sense.

sincerely confused
 
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You should take a course in vector calculus. What you are asking is usually covered over several weeks of such a course.
 
oh ok well i won't have that option for a while so is there a recommended book for beginners over vector calc, it doesn't have to be dumbed down, just interpret-able any insight would be greatly appreciated!
 

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