Irodov Homework Help: Potential of Fields of Force

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining whether two given stationary fields of force are potential fields. The fields in question are represented as F=ayi and F=axi + byj, where i and j denote unit vectors along the x and y axes, respectively, and a and b are constants.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions how to determine if a field is potential, mentioning the need to calculate work and its dependence on the path. Another participant suggests checking the curl of the total fields as a method for this determination.

Discussion Status

The discussion is in an exploratory phase, with participants raising questions about the criteria for potential fields and suggesting different approaches to the problem. There is no explicit consensus on the best method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the definitions and criteria for potential fields, with some uncertainty about the implications of work and path dependence in this context.

danilo_rj
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I've got a problem from Irodov.
There are two stationary fields of force F=ayi and F = axi + byj, where i and j are unit vectors of the x and y axes, and a and b are constants. Find out whether these fields are potential.
But how do I know that a field is potential? I've read that I have to calculate the work performed by these forces and if the work depends on the path or not. But why of this?
 
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I think Checking whether the curl of total fields is zero or not is the best way
 

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