Potential function of a gradient field.

[carstensentyl]

Homework Statement

For the vector field = -yi + xj, find the line integral along the curve C from the origin along the x-axis to the point (6, 0) and then counterclockwise around the circumference of the circle x2 + y2 = 36 to the point (6/sqrt(2), 6/sqrt(2)) . Give an exact answer.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I got a potential function f = xy. I tried to consider it as a path independent potential function, and plugged in F(6/sqrt(2), 6/sqrt(2))-F(0,0). The answer I got was 18. Which webassign calls wrong. Then again, webassign incorrect on about 20% of the problems, which makes learning math very frustrating.

 

[Dick]

grad(f) is yi+xj. That's not what you want. The vector field doesn't have a gradient function, it has nonzero curl. You really have to do the path integral.

 

[carstensentyl]

Thanks. I just read a few chapters ahead into the curl stuff.

 

[-EquinoX-]

sorry to bring this up again but I got the same question with the OP and I am just confused what the real answer should be if the vector field doesn't have a grad function

 

[HallsofIvy]

Normally one does path integrals before "potential functions" so this is a peculiar question.

from the origin along the x-axis to the point (6, 0) and then counterclockwise around the circumference of the circle x^2 + y^2 = 36 to the point (6/sqrt(2), 6/sqrt(2)).

Do it as two separate integrals. On the x-axis use x= t, y= 0. On the circle x^2+ y^2= 36 use x= 6cos(\theta), y= 6 sin(\theta).