Using the div-flux theorem (Gauss) to derive divergence in polar coördinates?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the form of divergence in polar and spherical coordinates using the Gauss-Ostrogradsky theorem. This theorem states that the volume integral of divergence equals the surface flux integral. The method involves dividing the flux, represented as a vector dot product with the differential surface element, by the differential volume element in the respective coordinate system. A complete derivation in spherical coordinates is available at the provided blog link.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Gauss-Ostrogradsky theorem
  • Familiarity with vector calculus
  • Knowledge of polar and spherical coordinate systems
  • Basic proficiency in differential geometry
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  • Study the derivation of divergence in polar coordinates
  • Explore vector calculus applications in physics
  • Review differential geometry concepts relevant to coordinate transformations
  • Examine the implications of the Gauss-Ostrogradsky theorem in fluid dynamics
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Mathematicians, physicists, and engineering students interested in advanced calculus and vector field analysis will benefit from this discussion.

nonequilibrium
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Apparently one can deduce the form of divergence in polar (and spherical) coördinates using the theorem of Gauss and Ostrogradsky, namely that the volume integral over the divergence is equal to the flux integral over the surface. I can't see a way to do that, do you?
 
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