Visualizing & Solving a 2D Laplace Eq problem (Polar Coordinates)

In summary, the Laplace equation in polar coordinates is a partial differential equation that describes the variation of a scalar function in two-dimensional space. It can be solved by converting it into polar form and applying separation of variables. The physical interpretation of the equation is that it represents a state of equilibrium or balance. The boundary conditions for solving it depend on the specific problem being solved. Some applications of solving 2D Laplace equations in polar coordinates include studying electric potential, temperature distribution, and fluid flow in various systems.
  • #1
majormuss
124
4
Homework Statement
See the attached screenshots for the details and my progress so far.

1)My first question is: Is my picture an accurate rendition of the problem?
2) Am I on the right track with my Boundary Conditions and my first few steps at solving part a)?
Thanks in advance.
Relevant Equations
Laplace Eq.
ph.png
242649
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It would be easier if you took the ##\theta## boundary conditions at ##-\beta/2## and ##+\beta/2##
 
  • Like
Likes majormuss
  • #3
Chestermiller said:
It would be easier if you took the ##\theta## boundary conditions at ##-\beta/2## and ##+\beta/2##
Thanks, I agree that would make things easier. Is my diagram correct, though? and is everything else correct?
 

1. What is the Laplace Equation in 2D polar coordinates?

The Laplace Equation in 2D polar coordinates is a partial differential equation that describes the steady-state distribution of heat or potential in a circular region. It is given by ∇²u = 0, where u is the unknown function and ∇² is the Laplace operator.

2. How do you solve a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates?

To solve a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates, you can use separation of variables. This involves assuming a solution of the form u(r,θ) = R(r)Θ(θ) and plugging it into the equation. This will result in two separate ordinary differential equations, which can then be solved to find the general solution.

3. What are the boundary conditions for a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates?

The boundary conditions for a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates typically involve specifying the values of the unknown function u at the boundaries of the circular region. This can include specifying the value of u at a particular radius or angle, or specifying the value of the normal derivative of u at the boundary.

4. How do you visualize the solution to a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates?

One way to visualize the solution to a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates is to plot contour lines of the solution. These lines represent points where the solution has the same value. Another way is to use a color map to show the varying values of the solution at different points in the circular region.

5. What are some real-world applications of solving a 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates?

The 2D Laplace Equation in polar coordinates has many applications in physics and engineering. It can be used to model the steady-state temperature distribution in a circular object, the electric potential in a circular capacitor, or the velocity potential in a circular flow field. It is also used in image processing and computer graphics for smoothing and edge detection.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
696
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
871
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
5K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
493
  • Differential Geometry
Replies
4
Views
747
  • Classical Physics
Replies
4
Views
885
Back
Top