Troubleshooting Homework: Identifying and Addressing Mistakes

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The discussion focuses on troubleshooting a homework problem related to a conservative field and path independence. Participants emphasize the importance of recognizing that the integral of a gradient function is key to finding the solution. There is confusion regarding the final answer, with one participant calculating a result of 3/4, while the textbook answer is -27/4. The conversation suggests that the original poster has not fully completed the problem, which is crucial for arriving at the correct answer. Overall, the key takeaway is the necessity of finishing the calculations to resolve discrepancies in the answers.
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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



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The Attempt at a Solution



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You're right, it is a conservative field - that's the key to the solution.
I think you're trying to use path independence, which is also key, but try it another way.
you're looking for the integral of F; and F = grad f... well... what's the integral of grad f?
 
Actually, I can't really see a problem. So...am I really just that rusty? What's the answer supposed to be?
 
The only thing you are doing wrong is that you have not finished the problem!

You have (9- 12+ 4)- (1/4+ 1- 1). Okay, what number is that?
 
HallsofIvy said:
The only thing you are doing wrong is that you have not finished the problem!

You have (9- 12+ 4)- (1/4+ 1- 1). Okay, what number is that?

Well, that answer is 3/4, but the answer in the back of the review has -27/4.
 
lzkelley said:
You're right, it is a conservative field - that's the key to the solution.
I think you're trying to use path independence, which is also key, but try it another way.
you're looking for the integral of F; and F = grad f... well... what's the integral of grad f?

I have that written out.
 

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