Normal velocity to the surface in Spherical Coordinate System

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the normal velocity to a surface in a spherical coordinate system, particularly focusing on non-spherical shapes. Participants explore the mathematical formulation of the normal vector and its application to different surface geometries.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a method to find the normal vector using the gradient of the surface equation and asks for help in calculating the normal velocity.
  • Another participant requests clarification on the surface and path involved in the problem to provide assistance.
  • A participant suggests a procedure involving the dot product of the unit normal vector and the particle's velocity vector to find the normal component of the velocity.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on the need to clarify the surface definition, particularly when transitioning from spherical to non-spherical shapes.
  • A participant proposes a form for the normal vector for non-spherical shapes, indicating a dependence on a spherical normal vector and an additional term for perturbation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing levels of understanding regarding the problem, with some seeking clarification while others attempt to provide solutions. No consensus is reached on the approach to calculating the normal vector for non-spherical shapes.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the established normal for spherical particles but highlight the complexity introduced by non-spherical geometries. The discussion includes assumptions about the definitions of surfaces and paths, which remain unresolved.

Wisam
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Let's say we have r=R( theta, phi, t) on the surface of the particle and need to find the normal vector in Spherical Coordinate system. We know that, the unit vector =grad(r-R( theta, phi, t)) / |grad((r-R( theta, phi, t))|
where grad is Spherical gradient operator in term of e_r, e_\theta, e_\phi.

Can you please help me to calculate the normal velocity to the surface in Spherical Coordinate system.Thank for your help.
 
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I'm afraid your question is too hard to understand as it is written. If you write it again more clearly, making clear in particular
- what the surface is to which you refer
- what the path is, for which you want to calculate a velocity
then it will probably become possible for somebody to help you.
 
If you have a unit normal to the surface, then:

1) take the dot product of this unit normal vector and the particle's velocity vector;

2) multiply the result of 1) by the unit normal vector.

Together, 1) and 2) give the part of the particle's velocity that is normal to the surface.
 
andrewkirk said:
I'm afraid your question is too hard to understand as it is written. If you write it again more clearly, making clear in particular
- what the surface is to which you refer
- what the path is, for which you want to calculate a velocity
then it will probably become possible for somebody to help you.

Thank you for your help.
We know the normal for spherical particle ( for sphere we know how the normal) but I need to find the normal for non-spherical shape.
If we say the radius r=R(t)+epsilon R(theta,t)
then how can I find the normal for that form.?
I think the normal will be

n=n0+epsilon n1 (theta,t)
where n0 is the vector for (for spherical shape)??
Is that right ?
 
George Jones said:
If you have a unit normal to the surface, then:

1) take the dot product of this unit normal vector and the particle's velocity vector;

2) multiply the result of 1) by the unit normal vector.

Together, 1) and 2) give the part of the particle's velocity that is normal to the surface.
George Jones said:
If you have a unit normal to the surface, then:

1) take the dot product of this unit normal vector and the particle's velocity vector;

2) multiply the result of 1) by the unit normal vector.

Together, 1) and 2) give the part of the particle's velocity that is normal to the surface.
Thank you for your help.
We know the normal for spherical particle ( for sphere we know how the normal) but I need to find the normal for non-spherical shape.
If we say the radius r=R(t)+epsilon R(theta,t)
then how can I find the normal for that form.?
I think the normal will be

n=n0+epsilon n1 (theta,t)
where n0 is the vector for (for spherical shape)??
Is that right ?
thank you
 

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