Stokes Theorem for Surface S: Parametrization, Flux and Integral

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around Stokes' Theorem applied to a surface S, specifically a helicoid defined by a parametrization involving a line segment between two points. Participants are exploring the parametrization of the surface and its boundary, as well as the computation of flux through the surface and line integrals along the boundary.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the parametrization of the helicoid and question whether the initial guess is correct. There is uncertainty about the nature of the surface S and its equation. The role of the line segment joining two points in defining the helicoid is also questioned. Some participants are attempting to clarify how the parameters affect the integration bounds.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants providing insights into the parametrization and questioning the implications of the line segment. There is no explicit consensus, but some guidance is being offered regarding the parametrization and the relationship between the parameters and the surface.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion about the lack of a clear equation for the surface S and how the line segment contributes to the overall setup. There are also concerns about how to properly set up the integrals for parts (b) and (c) of the problem.

JaysFan31
For the surface S (helicoid or spiral ramp) swept out by the line segment joining the point (2t, cost, sint) to (2t,0,0) where 0 is less than or equal to t less than or equal to pi.

(a) Find a parametrisation for this surface S and of the boundary A of this surface.

I can only guess that
x=rcost
y=rsint
z=t
0 less than or equal to t less than or equal to pi
0 less than or equal to r less than or equal to 1
Is this right or totally bogus?

(b) For the vector field F=(x,y,z) compute the flux of F through the surface S. Assume the normal to the surface has a non-negative k component at t=0.
No idea because what is the surface S? It has no equation.

(c) Compute integral (F*dr) where A is the boundary curve of the surface S and F is the force field (x,y,z).
I think I just use Stokes Theorem for (c), but I'm having trouble setting it up since again I have no equation for the surface S. I also don't know how the whole line segment joining works into it.

I can evaluate the integrals, I just have trouble setting them up. If anyone could help me with these three I would appreciate it. Just explain what's going on.
 
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You have just given a parametric form for the surface, x(r,t)=r*cos(t), y(r,t)=r*sin(t),
z(r,t)=t. How can you say S has no equation?
 
Well is that right for a helicoid?
And how does the line segment joining those two points play into the helicoid?
 
The parameter r sweeps out the line segment. r=0 and you're on the z-axis, r=1 and you are on the helix. r=in between and you are in between.
 
So does it factor into the bounds of integration?

I guess I don't see what the 2t means for the x part also?

It just seems when I do the integrations out, it's going to be simply
t between 0 and pi
r between 0 and 1
for both parts (b) and (c) if I use parametrisation.

Does the line segment joining the point (2t, cost, sint) and (2t,0,0) somehow give me the unit normal n which I have to find?
 

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