What is the purpose of using the nabla operator in this equation?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of the nabla operator in vector calculus, specifically in the context of a homework problem involving the expression F1 X nabla X F2, where X denotes the cross product. Participants are exploring the implications and differences between various operations involving the nabla operator.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand the distinction between operations like F*nabla and nabla*F, and how these relate to vector fields. There is a focus on the mathematical definitions and implications of these operations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants seeking clarification on the mathematical expressions and their meanings. There is a mix of attempts to explain the differences in operations involving the nabla operator, but no consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

One participant expresses frustration regarding the posting of homework questions inappropriately, indicating a potential issue with forum etiquette or guidelines.

curupira
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A simple question:
In a homework I find :
F1 X nabla X F2 where X is the simbol of cross product

I know that AX(BXC)= (A*C)*B-(A*B)C

Where* here is used to divergence

In the next step it was:

-Nabla*(F2)F1 + nabla(F1*F2)

I don't understant it, why?
 
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The basic idea is What the diference F*nabla and Nabla*F
 
curupira said:
The basic idea is What the diference F*nabla and Nabla*F

[itex](\textbf{F} \cdot \nabla) \textbf{G}[/itex] is a vector whose ith component is

[tex]\left[ (\textbf{F} \cdot \nabla) \textbf{G} \right]_i = \sum_j F_j \frac{\partial G_i}{\partial x_j}[/tex]​

whereas

[tex]\left[ (\nabla \cdot \textbf{F}) \textbf{G} \right]_i = \sum_j \frac{\partial F_j}{\partial x_j} G_i[/tex]​
 
Jeez, man! Will you please stop posting homework questions in the wrong places?
 

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