Vector Calculus: Is F=0 When ∇·F=0 & ∇×F=0?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the conditions under which a vector field \(\vec{F}\) can be considered zero based on its divergence and curl, specifically when \(\nabla \cdot \vec{F} = 0\) and \(\nabla \times \vec{F} = 0\). This falls under the subject area of vector calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning whether the conditions of divergence and curl being zero imply that the vector field itself must also be zero. There is an exploration of specific examples, such as a constant vector field.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants raising questions about the validity of the initial assumptions and providing examples that challenge the notion that \(\vec{F}\) must equal zero under the given conditions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants are providing specific examples of vector fields, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the implications of divergence and curl. There is a focus on clarifying definitions and assumptions related to vector fields.

latentcorpse
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is it true that if [itex]\nabla \cdot \vec{F}=0 , \nabla \times \vec{F}=0[/itex] then [itex]\vec{F}=0[/itex]?
 
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latentcorpse said:
is it true that if [itex]\nabla \cdot \vec{F}=0 , \nabla \times \vec{F}=0[/itex] then [itex]\vec{F}=0[/itex]?

Suppose [tex]\vec F=3\hat x \ldots[/tex]
 
the divergence of 3x is 3 not 0 though?
 
latentcorpse said:
the divergence of 3x is 3 not 0 though?

By [tex]\hat x[/tex], I mean what you might have seen as [tex]\hat \imath[/tex]...
that is,
[tex]\vec F= (3) \hat \imath[/tex]
or
[tex]\vec F= (3,0,0)[/tex]
...that is, a nonzero constant vector field.
 

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