What is d(theta-hat)/d(theta) in Cylindrical Coordinates?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the derivative of the unit vector in the angular direction, denoted as d(theta-hat)/d(theta), in cylindrical coordinates. The consensus is that the derivative is expressed as -rho*theta-hat, where rho represents the radial distance. This clarification resolves confusion regarding the directionality of the derivative, confirming that it indeed has a directional component associated with theta-hat.

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  • Cylindrical coordinate system fundamentals
  • Vector calculus principles
  • Understanding of unit vectors
  • Basic differentiation techniques
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khfrekek1992
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Homework Statement



In cylindrical coordinates: what is d(theta-hat)/d(theta)?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I'm fairly certain it is -rho... without a direction? or is it -rho*theta-hat?

Thanks in advance!
 
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[tex]-\hat r[/tex]
 
ooh, awesome, that fixes the problem I was having.. thank you!
 

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