Is t(s) perpendicular to the radius of the surface sphere at point γ(s)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the tangent vector \( t(s) \) of a curve \( \gamma(s) \) parameterized by arc length and the radius of a sphere at the point \( \gamma(s) \). The curve is assumed to lie on the surface of a sphere centered at the origin.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the differentiation of the equation representing the sphere's surface, questioning how to show that \( t(s) \) is perpendicular to the radius. There are discussions about the nature of \( \gamma(s) \) as a vector and its implications for the tangent vector.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, attempting to differentiate the relevant equations and clarify the geometric relationships. Some guidance has been offered regarding the differentiation process and the interpretation of the vectors involved, but no consensus on the proof has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted lack of additional information about \( \gamma(s) \), and participants are working under the assumption that \( \gamma(s) \) represents points on the sphere's surface. The discussion includes considerations of the product rule in differentiation and the implications of the dot product being zero.

ParisSpart
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whether γ=γ(s):I->R^3 curve parameterized as to arc length (single speed). Assume that γ is the surface sphere centered on the origin (0,0). Prove that the vector t(s) is perpendicular to the radius of the sphere at point γ(s), for each s.


i know that t(s)=γ΄(s) but i don't know how to continue to prove it , maybe i don't have undrstand the problem on how to show that t(s) is vertical on the radius of sphere
 
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Since ##\gamma(s)## is on the surface of the sphere, you know
<\gamma(s),\gamma(s)> = 1
Now differentiate both sides.
 
i do not have any other information... for γ(s)
 
As was mentioned before, if ##\gamma## is on the surface of a sphere that means that
\begin{equation*}
\gamma(t) \cdot \gamma(t) = |\gamma(t)|^2 = \text{ constant}.
\end{equation*}
Then you should differentiate both sides with respect to ##t##.
 
with this i show that t(s) is perpendicular on the radius of the sphere? we do not use any radius r
 
ParisSpart said:
with this i show that t(s) is perpendicular on the radius of the sphere? we do not use any radius r

What does the vector ##\gamma(s)## look like?
 
i think γ(s) is our curve and vector is t(s)=γ΄(s)
 
ParisSpart said:
i think γ(s) is our curve and vector is t(s)=γ΄(s)

Well, as you wrote yourself, ##\gamma : [0,1] \rightarrow \mathbb{R}^3##. So ##\gamma(s) \in \mathbb{R}^3##. A point in ##\mathbb{R}^3## is also a vector. Don't you agree?
 
yes its my fault , γ(s) is a vector..
 
  • #10
if i differentiate i will find γ'(s)=0
 
  • #11
ParisSpart said:
if i differentiate i will find γ'(s)=0

That is not correct. Differentiate ##\gamma(s) \cdot \gamma(s) = c## again. Remember the product rule.
 
  • #12
2γ(s)γ'(s)=0 but what i will do next?
 
  • #13
ParisSpart said:
2γ(s)γ'(s)=0 but what i will do next?

So the dot product is zero, what does that mean?
 
  • #14
γ(s) and γ'(s) are perpendicular , but we want t(s) to be perpendicular with radius.
 
  • #15
Quesadilla said:
What does the vector ##\gamma(s)## look like?

Think about this.
 
  • #16
i am thinking it but i can't find any answer , its a radious? if yes why?
 
  • #17
ParisSpart said:
i am thinking it but i can't find any answer , its a radious? if yes why?

Well, ##\gamma(s)## is a point on the surface of the sphere, but it is also a vector, right? What would that vector be? Try drawing it, if you are still unsure.
 
  • #18
and because t(s)=γ'(s) and γ(s) ιs radious t(s) is perpendicular on γ(s)?
 
  • #19
ParisSpart said:
and because t(s)=γ'(s) and γ(s) ιs radious t(s) is perpendicular on γ(s)?

Yes.
 

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