Rotation and curl? (Vector calc)

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The discussion revolves around understanding the concepts of rotation and curl in vector calculus, particularly in relation to rigid bodies. It emphasizes that curl applies only to vector fields, specifically the velocity field of a rigid body, which is directly linked to its angular velocity. The participants express confusion about the homework question, suggesting it may be flawed or unclear, as a rigid body can either have rotation and curl or none at all. They note that while fluids can exhibit more complex behaviors, rigid bodies present limited scenarios. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for clearer examples and explanations in the context of rigid body dynamics.
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Homework Statement


Give an example of a rigid body that has:
Rotation but not curl
Curl but not rotation
Rotation and curl
Neither rotation nor curl

The Attempt at a Solution


i don't even get what rotation is. Or curl, to be honest...*sigh* Maybe if you help me I can begin to understand. My book is making me want to bash myself over the head, it's so unhelpful x(
 
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Curl only applies to vector fields. The only vector field associated with a rigid body that you can take a curl of is the velocity field. Curl of a velocity field of a rigid body is simply proportional to the angular velocity of said body. So a rigid body is either rotating and has curl of velocity field, or it is not rotating and has zero curl of velocity field. With fluids you can get more creative, but with rigid bodies, these are your options. So I'm not sure the question makes sense. It's almost like answer to one of the questions, rotating rigid body, was accidentally put into the question, making the rest of it nonsensical.

Or I could be missing something. But it doesn't make any sense to me.
 
It says for a rigid body or fluid in motion...
I think she wants real world examples... I agree that it is confusing
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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