16.1.9 Line Integral over space curves

In summary, a line integral over space curves is a mathematical concept used to calculate the integral of a scalar or vector function along a three-dimensional curve in space. It differs from a regular line integral in that it is calculated along a three-dimensional curve and the direction of the curve is significant. Real-world applications include calculating work, flux, and center of mass. To solve a line integral over space curves, one needs a strong understanding of vector calculus and operations such as dot and cross products.
  • #1
karush
Gold Member
MHB
3,269
5
Evaluate

$\displaystyle \int_C(x+y)ds$
where C is the straight-line segment
$x=t, y=(1-t), z=0, $
from (0,1,0) to (1,0,0)

ok this is due tuesday but i missed the lecture on it
so kinda clueless.
i am sure it is a easy one.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Use $ds = \sqrt{(dx/dt)^2+(dy/dt)^2+(dz/dt)^2}dt$, take derivative of $(x(t),y(t),z(t))$ with respect to t, and then the integral goes from $(x,y,z)=(0,1,0) $ to $(1,0,0)$ check what it means for the t variable.
 

FAQ: 16.1.9 Line Integral over space curves

What is a line integral over space curves?

A line integral over space curves is a mathematical concept that involves calculating the integral of a scalar or vector function along a curve in three-dimensional space. It is used to determine the total amount of a quantity, such as work or mass, that is accumulated along a path in space.

How is a line integral over space curves different from a regular line integral?

A line integral over space curves differs from a regular line integral because it is calculated along a three-dimensional curve in space, rather than a two-dimensional curve in the xy-plane. This means that the curve must be parameterized in terms of three variables, usually x, y, and z.

What is the significance of the direction of the curve in a line integral over space curves?

The direction of the curve in a line integral over space curves is important because it determines the orientation of the integral. Reversing the direction of the curve will result in a negative value for the line integral, while keeping the direction the same will result in a positive value.

What are some real-world applications of line integrals over space curves?

Line integrals over space curves have numerous applications in physics and engineering, including calculating work done by a force along a curved path, determining the flux of a vector field through a curved surface, and finding the center of mass of a three-dimensional object.

What mathematical tools are needed to solve a line integral over space curves?

To solve a line integral over space curves, one needs a strong understanding of vector calculus, including vector fields, line integrals, and multiple integrals. Knowledge of parameterization and vector operations, such as dot and cross products, is also necessary.

Similar threads

Back
Top