Stokes' Theorem: Evaluating a Surface Integral on a Hemisphere

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around evaluating a surface integral involving the gradients of two functions, u and v, over a hemisphere defined by the equation x²+y²+z²=1 with z ≥ 0. Participants are exploring the application of Stokes' Theorem in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to compute the surface integral of the cross product of the gradients of u and v, questioning the correctness of their calculations and the implications of Stokes' Theorem. There is discussion about the definition of the vector field F and its relation to the curl.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants clarifying their understanding of the problem setup and the mathematical expressions involved. Some participants express uncertainty about the application of Stokes' Theorem and the interpretation of the integral, while others are trying to reconcile their calculations with the theorem's requirements.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of potential confusion regarding the definitions of the functions involved and the components of the gradients. Participants are also addressing the need for clarity in notation and the assumptions underlying their calculations.

JaysFan31
Here's my problem:
Take u=(x^3)+(y^3)+(z^2) and v=x+y+z and evaluate the surface integral
double integral of grad(u) x grad(v) ndS where x is the cross product and between the cross product and the ndS there should be a dot product sign. The region S is the hemisphere x^2+y^2+z^2=1 with z greater than or equal to 0 and n has non-negative k component.

Here's my work:
grad(u)=(3x^2)i-(3y^2)j+(2z)k
grad(v)= i+j+k
grad(u) x grad (v)= (-3y^2-2z)i+(2z-3x^2)j+(3x^2-3y^2)k

curl F * k = (-6x+6y)
Thus I=double integral of curl F * ndS = double integral of curl F *k dA = double integral of (-6x+6y)dA.

I used polar coordinates:
-6 integral from 0 to 2pi integral from 0 to 1 (rcost-rsint) rdrdt. However, this integral equals zero. Is this right?

Is this flux zero?
 
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JaysFan31 said:
Here's my problem:
Take u=(x^3)+(y^3)+(z^2) and v=x+y+z and evaluate the surface integral
double integral of grad(u) x grad(v) ndS where x is the cross product and between the cross product and the ndS there should be a dot product sign.
Is this what you mean: [tex]\int\int\nabla u \times\nabla v \cdot \bold{n}dS[/tex]?

The region S is the hemisphere x^2+y^2+z^2=1 with z greater than or equal to 0 and n has non-negative k component.

Here's my work:
grad(u)=(3x^2)i-(3y^2)j+(2z)k
Where does the minus sign in front of the j component come from? [tex]\nabla u=\frac{\partial u}{\partial x}\bold{i}+\frac{\partial u}{\partial y}\bold{j}+\frac{\partial u}{\partial z}\bold{k}[/tex]
grad(v)= i+j+k
grad(u) x grad (v)= (-3y^2-2z)i+(2z-3x^2)j+(3x^2-3y^2)k
These look correct with the amended form for grad(u)

curl F * k = (-6x+6y)
Thus I=double integral of curl F * ndS = double integral of curl F *k dA = double integral of (-6x+6y)dA.
What's F? You should define anything you introduce. I imagine you've used Stokes' Theorem here, but where?

[As an aside, it would be helpful if you could learn LaTex; it's very simple to learn! Click on one of the images in my text, and follow the link to the tutorial]
 
Last edited:
I think I would agree the total flux is zero, but I don't see how you are getting it. What does the stated problem have to do with Stokes Theorem? Where did the curl come from? What is F?
 
Yes, the integral that cristo wrote is what I'm looking for.

Can't I just let F=grad(u) x grad (v)= (-3y^2-2z)i+(2z-3x^2)j+(3x^2-3y^2)k?

I made a mistake. u should equal (x^3)-(y^3)+(z^2). That's why I have a negative j component.

If I let F equal the above, isn't this correct?
 
You are integrating F. Not curl(F). So you can't take it to a line integral.
 
See my post to your latest question. grad(u)xgrad(v) is the curl of something. What?
 

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