Understanding the Curl of a Vector Potential in Spherical Coordinates

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on computing the curl of a vector potential in spherical coordinates, specifically for the vector function A = (k sin θ / r²) ϕ̂. The user sought resources for understanding this calculation and found useful references on MathWorld and Wikipedia. The key takeaway is the importance of correctly identifying angle definitions when applying the spherical curl expression. The user successfully resolved their query with the provided resources.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus, particularly curl operations.
  • Familiarity with spherical coordinates and their notation.
  • Knowledge of vector fields and their representations.
  • Access to mathematical resources such as MathWorld and Wikipedia for reference.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the curl in spherical coordinates from advanced calculus textbooks.
  • Explore vector calculus applications in physics, particularly in electromagnetism.
  • Learn about curvilinear coordinates and their implications in vector analysis.
  • Review examples of vector potentials in fluid dynamics and their curl computations.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics and engineering, particularly those dealing with vector calculus and electromagnetic theory.

saybrook1
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Homework Statement


For some reason I can't find anywhere online that gives a good example of the curl of a vector function in spherical coordinates. I need to compute ∇ X A where

A = \frac{ksinθ}{r^{2}}\widehat{ϕ}

If anyone can point me in the right direction of a good video or text tutorial that shows the curl of a vector potential in spherical coordinates I would really appreciate it. Thanks.


Homework Equations



I know how the curl is set up in spherical coordinates from my textbook I'm just not one hundred percent sure how to go about it.

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
Just figured it out, thanks a ton!
 

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