Just clarify; Not a homework problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the conditions for a vector field to be conservative, specifically questioning whether a field dependent on velocity or time can still be considered conservative. It is established that a conservative vector field must be a function of position only, implying that if a field depends on velocity, such as the Lorentz force, it cannot be conservative. The relationship between curl and conservative fields is highlighted, noting that if the curl is not zero, the field cannot be conservative. The conversation also touches on the ambiguity regarding whether the velocity in the Lorentz force equation refers to the source charge or the test charge. Overall, the thread emphasizes the importance of understanding the dependencies of vector fields in determining their conservative nature.
neelakash
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Homework Statement



We know cyclic integral F(r).dl=0 => curl F(r)=0 and F(r) is a conservative vector field.
What if the vector field is NOT a function of r(x,y,z)?Suppose,F is a function of velocity or time...i.e. F=F(v) or F=F(t).Say we do not know v=v(r) or t=t(r).In that case will the field be at all consevative?

Is magnetic force (Lorentz force F=v x B ) a function of velocity?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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neelakash said:

Homework Statement



We know cyclic integral F(r).dl=0 => curl F(r)=0 and F(r) is a conservative vector field.
What if the vector field is NOT a function of r(x,y,z)?Suppose,F is a function of velocity or time...i.e. F=F(v) or F=F(t).Say we do not know v=v(r) or t=t(r).In that case will the field be at all consevative?
You might want to check out http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/pegrav.html#cfor
neelakash said:
Is magnetic force (Lorentz force F=v x B ) a function of velocity?
Yes.
 
So,conservative vector field is only function of r,always...Right?The purpose of the question was to know another way to see that lorentz force is not conservative.Since curl E= -(del B/del t)...that is a common way to see it.
But if you know that this force is a function of velocity and for a field to be conservative,it is to be a function of position only,atleast qualitatively you know that the curl cannot be zero,nor the closed loop line integral is going to be zero.

Often there are cases where we use something (which we do not understand clearly) to prove another...Like this.I,perhaps, do not understand NOW why magnetic force is a function of velocity...Is this velocity is the velocity of the source charge or the test charge?
 
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