Can You Crack This Vector Identity Challenge?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter Euge
  • Start date
In summary, the POTW (Problem of the Week) is a weekly problem presented by a scientific organization or publication that challenges individuals to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills. Anyone who is interested in science and has the necessary knowledge and skills can participate, regardless of age or background. Solutions can be submitted through the organization's website or via email, following their specific guidelines. Rewards for solving the POTW may include recognition, certificates, or monetary prizes, but the main reward is the satisfaction of solving a challenging scientific problem. Collaboration is often allowed, but credit must be given to all collaborators in the submission.
  • #1
Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Prove the vector identity

$$\nabla(\mathbf{A}\cdot \mathbf{B}) = (\mathbf{A}\cdot \nabla)\mathbf{B} + (\mathbf{B}\cdot \nabla)\mathbf{A} + \mathbf{A}\times (\nabla \times \mathbf{B}) + \mathbf{B}\times (\nabla \times \mathbf{A})$$

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  • #2
For a hint, use the epsilon tensor and the epsilon-delta identity.
 
  • #3
No one answered this week’s problem. You can read my solution below.
Using Einstein notation, the $j$th component of $\nabla(\mathbf{A}\cdot \mathbf{B})$ is $$\partial_j(A^iB_i) = \delta_j^{\mu} \delta^{\nu}_{i} \partial_{\mu}(A^i B_{\nu}) = \delta_j^{\mu} \delta_i^\nu (\partial_{\mu} A^i)B_\nu + \delta_j^{\mu} \delta_i^{\nu} A_i \partial_{\mu} B^\nu$$
By the epsilon-delta identity, $$\delta_j^{\mu} \delta_i^\nu = \delta_{j}^{\mu} \delta_{\nu}^i = \epsilon^{\mu i k}\epsilon_{j\nu k} + \delta^{\mu}_{\nu} \delta^i_j$$
Thus $$\delta_j^{\mu} \delta_i^{\nu} (\partial_{\mu} A_i)B_{\nu} = \epsilon_{j\nu k}(\epsilon^{\mu i k}\partial_{\mu} A^i)B_{\nu} + \delta^{\mu}_{\nu} \delta^i_j (\partial_{\mu} A^i)B_{\nu} = \epsilon_{j\nu k} B_{\nu}(\nabla \times \mathbf{A})^k + B_{\mu}\partial_{\mu} A^j$$which is the $j$th component of the sum $$\mathbf{B}\times (\nabla \times \mathbf{A}) + (\mathbf{B}\cdot \nabla)\mathbf{A}$$ Similarly, $\delta_j^{\mu}\delta_i^{\nu} A_i \partial_{\mu}B^{\nu}$ is the $j$th component of the sum $\mathbf{A}\times(\nabla \times \mathbf{B}) + (\mathbf{A}\cdot \nabla)\mathbf{B}$ The result now follows.
 

FAQ: Can You Crack This Vector Identity Challenge?

What is the POTW problem?

The POTW (Problem of the Week) is a weekly problem presented by a scientific organization or publication that challenges individuals to apply their knowledge and problem-solving skills to a specific topic or question.

Who can participate in the POTW?

Anyone who is interested in science and has the necessary knowledge and skills to solve the problem can participate in the POTW. It is open to all ages and backgrounds.

How can I submit my solution for the POTW?

Each organization or publication may have a different submission process, but typically you can submit your solution through their website or via email. Make sure to follow the guidelines and include all necessary information to be considered.

Are there any rewards for solving the POTW?

Some organizations or publications may offer rewards for solving the POTW, such as recognition on their website or publication, certificates, or even monetary prizes. However, the main reward is the satisfaction of solving a challenging scientific problem.

Can I collaborate with others to solve the POTW?

Collaboration is often encouraged in scientific problem-solving, so it is usually allowed to work in a team to solve the POTW. However, make sure to follow the guidelines and give credit to all collaborators in your submission.

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