Understanding a step in a Biot-Savart law problem

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the interpretation of the cross product in the Biot-Savart law, specifically why the authors used sin(π/2 - θ) instead of sin(θ). The key point is that the angle between the vectors dl and r is actually (π/2 - θ), which justifies the authors' expression. This clarification helps to understand the relationship between the angles in the cross product formula. Participants express relief and understanding after this explanation. The discussion effectively resolves the confusion regarding the angle used in the cross product calculation.
Anti Hydrogen
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Homework Statement
Biot-Savart law
Relevant Equations
Biot-Savart law
I can't understand intuitively why the authors of the book expressed the cross product between the vectors dl and r (unit vector) as: dl sin(pi/2 - theta); isn't it supposed to be expressed as: dl sin(theta)?? So why did the authors put that pi/2 into the argument of sin function, that's my question, please check the file I attached
 

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Anti Hydrogen said:
Homework Statement:: Biot-Savart law
Relevant Equations:: Biot-Savart law

I can't understand intuitively why the authors of the book expressed the cross product between the vectors dl and r (unit vector) as: dl sin(pi/2 - theta); isn't it supposed to be expressed as: dl sin(theta)?? So why did the authors put that pi/2 into the argument of sin function, that's my question, please check the file I attached
In the cross product formula it is sin(angle between the vectors). In the diagram, the angle between the vectors is (π/2-θ).
 
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haruspex said:
In the cross product formula it is sin(angle between the vectors). In the diagram, the angle between the vectors is (π/2-θ).
That makes sense!; I can't believe I didn't consider that! Thanks!
 
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