Surface integral and divergence theorem over a hemisphere

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves evaluating the integral \(\oint d\vec{A}\cdot\vec{v}\) where \(\vec{v} = 3\vec{r}\) over a hemisphere defined by \(|\vec{r}| \leq a\) and \(z \geq 0\). The original poster attempts to approach the problem both directly through surface integration and by applying the divergence theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of spherical coordinates instead of Cartesian coordinates for the integration area. There are attempts to express the integral in terms of spherical coordinates, and questions arise about the area and volume elements in this context. Some participants also consider the implications of the divergence being constant.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the correct interpretation of the surface area element and the need for careful handling of angles. There is a recognition of potential errors in the original poster's approach, but no consensus has been reached on the correct method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity introduced by the vector nature of the surface area element and the need for clarity in the definitions of angles used in spherical coordinates. There is also an acknowledgment of the original poster's uncertainty regarding the divergence and its application in the context of the problem.

marineric
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Homework Statement



Please evaluate the integral \oint d\vec{A}\cdot\vec{v}, where \vec{v} = 3\vec{r} and S is a hemisphere defined by |\vec{r}| \leqa and z ≥ 0,

a) directly by surface integration.

b) using the divergence theorem.

Homework Equations



-Divergence theorem in spherical coordinates

The Attempt at a Solution



Another one where the \vec{r} messes me up. Simple enough if it was in regular xyz. Plus the \vec{v}... and I don't really know where to start.
 
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Well, \mathbf{r} = x \mathbf{e}_x + y \mathbf{e}_y + z \mathbf{e}_z shouldn't be too confusing...

In this case, the shape of the integration area suggests that you might want to use spherical coordinates instead of x, y and z. Do you know what the area element is in spherical coordinates? (or even better, can you calculate it?) What about volume element?
 
Ok so attempt at a solution:

∫∫ 3\vec{r} r^{2}sinθdθd\phi

limits are 0 to 2∏ for θ, and 0 to ∏/2 for \phi, or I could just do 3r^3 time the surface area of a hemisphere, which is 2*∏*r^2, so, 6*∏*a^5?

for divergence... do I just take the divergence in spherical coordinates and multiply by the volume of a hemisphere, which is 2/3*∏*r^3?
 
Okay, couple of things

1) The surface area element is a vector.
2) Be careful with the angles. Right now your definitions do not work.
3) As you noticed, the integrand does not depend on the angles. Be careful about jumping over the integral though; now you're getting too many factors of r.



marineric said:
for divergence... do I just take the divergence in spherical coordinates and multiply by the volume of a hemisphere, which is 2/3*∏*r^3?

Is the divergence constant? If it is, then it should of course work.
 

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