What type of coordinate system?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the spherical coordinate system, specifically the use of notations er, eθ, and eΦ sinθ. This coordinate system is particularly useful for modeling systems with spherical symmetry, such as the Earth's magnetic field, the electric field around charged spheres, and the hydrogen atom. The sinθ function is integral in converting between Cartesian and spherical coordinates, facilitating calculations in physics and engineering.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of spherical coordinate systems
  • Familiarity with vector notation in physics
  • Basic knowledge of trigonometric functions
  • Concept of symmetry in physical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the applications of spherical coordinates in electromagnetism
  • Learn about the conversion between Cartesian and spherical coordinates
  • Explore the mathematical implications of sinθ in spherical coordinates
  • Study the role of spherical coordinates in quantum mechanics, particularly in atomic models
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Students and professionals in physics, engineering, and mathematics who are dealing with problems involving spherical symmetry and coordinate transformations.

shanepitts
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This is a very basic question, but what type of coordinate system is this?

When is it useful to use?

er, eθ, eΦ sinθ
 
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Those notations are typically used for the so-called (curvilinear) spherical coordinate system. It's useful when the system to be described has a pronounced spherical symmetry, for example our Earth's magnetic field, electric field due to a charges sphere, and hydrogen atom. By the way what is that ##\sin\theta## for?
 
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