Stokes' Theorem, how to apply for this surface?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of Stokes' Theorem to transform a surface integral involving the curl of a vector field into a line integral. The vector field is defined as ##\vec{F}(x,y,z) = y\hat{i} - x^2\hat{j} + 5\hat{k}##, and the surface is given by a parametric equation with specific constraints.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand how to apply Stokes' Theorem given the surface defined by the parametric equation and the constraints. They express confusion about the nature of the surface and its boundaries.
  • Some participants suggest visualizing the surface and its boundaries to clarify the application of the theorem.
  • There is a discussion about notation and potential confusion arising from the use of symbols for area and line elements.

Discussion Status

The conversation has progressed with some participants gaining clarity on the nature of the surface and its representation. Guidance has been offered regarding the visualization of the surface and the importance of clear notation. However, there is no explicit consensus on the final approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's understanding of the surface was initially unclear, leading to questions about its geometric representation and how it relates to the application of Stokes' Theorem. The constraints on the parameters are also noted as a point of consideration.

Felipe Lincoln
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Homework Statement


With the stokes' theorem transform the integral ## \iint_\sigma \vec{\nabla}\times\vec{F}\cdot\vec{\mathrm{d}S} ## into a line integral and calculate.
## \vec{F}(x,y,z) = y\hat{i} -x^2\hat{j} +5\hat{k}##
##\sigma(u,v) = (u, v, 1-u^2)##
## v\geq0##, ##u\geq0##, ##u+v\leq1##

Homework Equations


Stokes' Theorem
$$\oint_\gamma\vec{F}\cdot\vec{\mathrm{d}S} = \iint_\sigma\vec{\nabla}\times\vec{F}\cdot\vec{\mathrm{d}S}$$

The Attempt at a Solution


The surface in this case is formed by a surface with several cuts: in the plane x+y=1, x=0 and y=0. So I have no idea on how to apply stokes' theorem here. I know this way: given a closed simple curve with not conservative vectorial field in it, the line integral of this vector field along this curve is equal to the integral of surface in which the surface is bounded by this curve. Thinking this way I can only imagine curves being bounds of a bounded surface, but here we got a surface that is part of a square and part of a curve. How to deal with this case?
 
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Your surface is not "part of a square and part of a curve". You are given a parametric equation of the surface ##\sigma(u,v) = \langle u,v,1 - u^2\rangle##. That is ##x = u,~y=v,~z = 1-x^2##. Do you recognize what that is? Plot a picture of it, then look at the part of that surface that satisfies the inequalities. The boundaries of that surface will give you the curves you need for your line integral. Come back when (if) you need more help.
 
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Oh, I can see. I was looking more than just the surface, it seemed to be something like a peace of cake hehe, but I saw it's just a slice of a parabola. It's solved now, thank you !
 
Just to add a piece of notational advice: Do not use ##d\vec S## for the line element if you are also using it to represent the area element. You risk confusing not only others but also yourself.
 
Orodruin said:
Just to add a piece of notational advice: Do not use ##d\vec S## for the line element if you are also using it to represent the area element. You risk confusing not only others but also yourself.
Oh I'm sorry I meant ##\vec{\mathrm{d}r} ## .
 

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