Is This Calculation of Grad \(\psi\) for \(\psi(x,y,z) = (y-1)z^2\) Correct?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the gradient of the scalar field \(\psi(x,y,z) = (y-1)z^2\). Participants are exploring the correct approach to finding the gradient and addressing potential errors in their calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to compute the gradient by taking partial derivatives with respect to \(x\), \(y\), and \(z\). There are questions about ensuring all terms are accounted for in the calculations and how to properly express the gradient vector.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on each other's calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct expression of the gradient vector, and there is acknowledgment of errors in previous attempts. Multiple interpretations of the gradient calculation are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the amount of guidance they can receive. There is an emphasis on ensuring that all terms are included in the calculations of the gradient.

andrey21
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For the following scalar field:

[tex]\psi[/tex](x,y,z) = (y-1)z2

Find grad [tex]\psi[/tex]


Here is my attempt at:


Multiplying out brackets:

yz2 - z2

Therefore grad [tex]\psi[/tex] = 0+Z2 J -2ZK

Is this correct??
 
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Your close, but you didn't compute the full partial with respect to Z for k.
 
Ok do I have to take into account all the terms when computing full partial with repsect to x,y,z. So would that give me:

0 + Z2 j + 2zy - 2z k
 
andrey21 said:
Ok do I have to take into account all the terms when computing full partial with repsect to x,y,z. So would that give me:

0 + Z2 j + 2zy - 2z k
You should write this as either
0i + z2j + 2(y - 1)zk
or
<0, z2, 2(y - 1)z>

The way you wrote it, the 2zy term isn't associated with any of the unit vectors.
 
Ok thanks Mark44 so other than writing it the wrong way the answer is correct? I have another similar question:

Find grad [tex]\psi[/tex] = x2(y-1)z

Multiply out brackets:

x2yz - x2z

grad [tex]\psi[/tex] = (2xy -2xz)i +x2zj +(x2y -x2)k

Is this correct??
 
Not really. Compute the partial derivative wrt x again.

EDIT to your post. Yes, it's correct now.
 
Last edited:
Ok I think I've seen my error, should it be:

(2xyz -2xz)i
 

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