Solving Basic Stokes Theorem Homework on Ellipse

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on applying Stokes' Theorem to calculate the circulation of the vector field F = x²i + 2xj + z²k around the curve C, defined by the ellipse 4x² + y² = 4 in the xy-plane. The curl of F is determined to be 2k, and the normal vector to the surface is confirmed as k. The participants clarify that the double integral should be set up over the interior of the ellipse, and it is noted that the integrand is constant, allowing for the use of the area formula for the ellipse instead of performing the integral directly.

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  • Understanding of Stokes' Theorem and its application in vector calculus.
  • Familiarity with vector fields and the concept of curl.
  • Knowledge of parameterization of curves and surfaces in multivariable calculus.
  • Ability to compute gradients and normal vectors in three-dimensional space.
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  • Review the derivation and application of area formulas for ellipses and other geometric shapes.
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Homework Statement


Use the surface integral in stokes theorem to find circulation of field F around the curve C.
F=x^2i+2xj+z^2k
C: the ellipse 4x^2+y^2=4 in the xy plane, counterclockwise when viewed from above



Homework Equations


stokes theroem: cirlulation=double integral of nabla X F.n d(sigma)


The Attempt at a Solution


i got nabla cross F is 2k
for the normal, aint it just k? coz I am getting confused by if i let g(x,y,z)=4x^2+y^2-4=0 (the elispe)
isnt n=grad(g)=8xi+2yj
im confused with this

also should i parameterize the ellipse?
im not sure how I am meant to set the double integral out?
im really lost, any help please?
 
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Right, curl(F)=2k and n=k. What's the dot product? You want to integrate that dx*dy over the interior of the ellipse 4*x^2+y^2=4. From here on the problem is not that different than finding the area of an ellipse or a circle using a double integral. Take a deep breath and try it. If you're clever, you'll notice the integrand is a constant so you don't have to integrate at all if you know a formula for the area of the region.
 
thanks, its just isn't the normal grad(g), or am i getting this confused with somethig else?
 
You are getting it confused with something else. You want the normal to the region in the x-y plane, which is k, as you said. grad(4x^2+y^2-4) is normal to the elliptical cylinder 4x^2+y^2-4=0.
 
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