What is the difference between unit vectors v and r?

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinction between unit vectors v and r in the context of polar coordinates. It establishes that while both vectors can be expressed in terms of derivatives, they represent different concepts. The unit vector v, denoted as \(\hat{v}\), is derived from the velocity vector \(\vec{v}\) normalized by its magnitude, while the unit vector r, denoted as \(\hat{r}\), is associated with the radial direction in polar coordinates. The confusion arises from the misunderstanding of the relationship between the derivatives of angular coordinates and their implications on the unit vectors.

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Jhenrique
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Follow the 1st ideia: [tex]\\ d\vec{r} = dr \hat{r} + r d\theta \hat{\theta} \\ \\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \frac{dr}{dr} \hat{r} + r \frac{d\theta}{dr}\hat{\theta} \\ \\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \hat{r}[/tex] and now: [tex]\\ \frac{d\vec{r}}{dr} = \frac{d\vec{r}}{dt} \frac{dt}{dr} = \frac{d\vec{r}}{dt} \frac{1}{\frac{dr}{dt}} = \frac{\vec{v}}{v} = \hat{v}[/tex] However, is obvious that the unit vectos v and r are different. So, where I'm wrong?
 
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You've made this same mistake before, Jhenrique. Just because ##\frac{\partial \theta}{\partial r} \equiv 0## does not mean that ##\frac{d \theta}{d r} = 0##.
 

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