List of all the cross and dot products in physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of cross and dot products in physics, highlighting key formulas such as the Lorentz force, angular momentum, torque, and work done. It emphasizes the geometric interpretation of these products, particularly in electromagnetism (EM) theory, where the cross product determines the direction of magnetism relative to current. Additional examples include the Poynting vector and energy density of the EM field. The conversation also suggests exploring the del operator, including gradient, divergence, and curl, for further insights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector mathematics, specifically cross and dot products
  • Familiarity with electromagnetism concepts, including Lorentz force and Poynting vector
  • Basic knowledge of calculus, particularly integration for work done calculations
  • Awareness of vector calculus operations such as gradient, divergence, and curl
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of the del operator in vector calculus
  • Study the derivation and implications of the Poynting vector in electromagnetic theory
  • Explore advanced topics in relativity related to cross and dot products
  • Investigate additional examples of work done in fluid dynamics using dot products
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, engineering students, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of electromagnetism and vector calculus.

Epix Trix
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the calculation of many quantities involve cross and dot products in their formulae.

For cross products, i only know of three: lorentz force, angular momenta and torque.
For dot products, i only know of one: work done

im hoping to add more to my list. Can you guys help me include other commonly used formulae which also involve cross and dot products?
 
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dot products have a geometric description as the projection of one vector on another

and similarly for cross product where you get the perpendicular projection of one vector on another.

EM theory uses vector cross product for direction of magnetism relative to current flowing through a wire and vice versa.

(force dot dr) as a differential for work (ie integrate over it to get the work done)

p v dot dS for fluid flow out of a surface differential where p is the fluid density and v is the velocity

EM theory f = q (E + v x B)

EM theory the poynting vector P = E x H

and energy density of the EM field W = 1/2 (E dot D + H dot B )

Relativity may have other examples as well.
 
i don't think there are any unique examples of cross and dot products in SR

but thanks for the lengthy reply
 
you could extend your search to include the del operator ie the gradient, the divergence and the curl.
 

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