- #1
xoxomae
- 23
- 1
Is the position vector r=xi+yj+zk just r=rerin spherical coordinates?
Position vector in spherical coordinates
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter xoxomae
- Start date
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the representation of the position vector in spherical coordinates compared to Cartesian coordinates. Participants explore the relationship between these coordinate systems and the implications for determining the position of points in space.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions whether the position vector in Cartesian coordinates, r=xi+yj+zk, is equivalent to the representation in spherical coordinates, r=rer.
- Another participant agrees but notes that the spherical representation requires prior knowledge of the point's location to determine the vector ##\mathbf e_r##.
- A different participant suggests using the Cartesian equation along with specific transformations for x, y, and z in terms of spherical coordinates to maintain the Cartesian base vectors.
- One participant shares a link to an external resource that discusses the position vector further, indicating its usefulness.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express some agreement on the relationship between the Cartesian and spherical representations, but there is no consensus on the implications of using these representations without prior knowledge of the point's location.
Contextual Notes
The discussion does not resolve the assumptions necessary for transforming between coordinate systems or the implications of those transformations on the understanding of position vectors.
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