Prove Vector Problem: PQ∙v = ∫a b dγ/dt ∙v dt

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves proving a vector equation relating the dot product of a vector PQ and a vector v to an integral involving the derivative of a parameterized curve γ. The context is within vector calculus and the properties of dot products.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the interpretation of the left-hand side of the equation and the meaning of the vector PQ. One participant attempts to break down the integral into components, while others question the definitions and relationships involved.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the definition of the vector PQ and its relation to the points P and Q. There is an ongoing exploration of the mathematical relationships without a clear consensus on the next steps or resolution.

Contextual Notes

It is noted that the vector v is assumed to be a unit vector, which may influence the interpretation of the dot product in the context of the problem.

ballzac
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Homework Statement


Prove [tex]\mathbf{PQ}\cdot \mathbf v=\int_a^b\frac{\textup d\gamma}{\textup d t}(t)\cdot\mathbf v\textup d t[/tex]
where [tex]\mathbf P=\gamma(a)[/tex] and [tex]\mathbf Q=\gamma(b)[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


I get
[tex] \int_a^b\frac{\textup d\gamma}{\textup d t}(t)\cdot\mathbf v\textup d t=v_x\int_a^b{\frac{\textup d\gamma_x}{\textup d t}\textup d t}+v_y\int_a^b{\frac{\textup d\gamma_y}{\textup d t}\textup d t}+v_z\int_a^b{\frac{\textup d\gamma_z}{\textup d t}\textup d t}\\<br /> =v_x(\gamma_x(b)-\gamma_x(a))+v_y(\gamma_y(b)-\gamma_y(a))+v_y(\gamma_y(b)-\gamma_y(a))\\<br /> =\mathbf v\cdot(\mathbf{Q-P})[/tex]

I'm not sure how to turn this into what is given. I'm not even sure I know what the left hand side of the given identity means. Is it the same thing as
[tex]\mathbf{P}(\mathbf Q}\cdot \mathbf v)[/tex]
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance :)
 
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By the way, [tex]v[/tex] is assumed to be a unit vector.
 
hopefully somebody with more authority can correct me but...

I'm very certain that PQ is defined as (Q - P) so you are correct (didn't look through the whole derivation though)
 
Oh, I get it. It's the vector from P to Q. Thanks heaps for that. I was so busy trying to figure out where I'd gone wrong that it never occurred to me that I may have it right. :)
 

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