Divergence Theorem: Does Multiplying div F Multiply Volume?

In summary, the divergence theorem states that the volume integral of a vector field is equal to the surface integral of the dot product of the vector field and the outward unit normal vector. If the divergence of the vector field is a constant, then the volume integral is just multiplied by that constant. The third equation in the given conversation is not true, as the divergence theorem does not involve an extra constant.
  • #1
randomcat
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Homework Statement


The divergence theorem states that

∫∫∫V div F dV = ∫∫S F(dot)N

Suppose that div F = 1, then

∫∫∫V div F dV = ∫∫S F(dot)N

If divF = 2, does the following hold true?∫∫∫V div F dV = 2∫∫S F(dot)N

Homework Equations


Since the divergence theorem computes the volume, if div F is a constant, then the volume formed by the closed surface would just be multiplied by that constant?

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
randomcat said:

Homework Statement


The divergence theorem states that

∫∫∫V div F dV = ∫∫S F(dot)N

Suppose that div F = 1, then

∫∫∫V div F dV = ∫∫S F(dot)N

If divF = 2, does the following hold true?


∫∫∫V div F dV = 2∫∫S F(dot)N

Homework Equations


Since the divergence theorem computes the volume, if div F is a constant, then the volume formed by the closed surface would just be multiplied by that constant?


The Attempt at a Solution


The divergence theorem always holds, the third equation doesn't hold. What is true is that if div(F)=1, then the volume integral is V. If div(F)=2 then the volume integral is 2V. You don't insert an extra constant into the divergence theorem.
 

Related to Divergence Theorem: Does Multiplying div F Multiply Volume?

1. What is the divergence theorem?

The divergence theorem, also known as Gauss's theorem, is a mathematical concept in vector calculus that relates a surface integral of a vector field to a volume integral of the divergence of that vector field. It states that the flux of a vector field through a closed surface is equal to the volume integral of the divergence of that field over the enclosed volume.

2. How does the divergence theorem work?

The divergence theorem works by calculating the integral of the divergence of a vector field over a certain volume, and then comparing it to the flux of that vector field through the boundary of the volume. If the two values are equal, the theorem holds true and provides a useful relationship between surface and volume integrals.

3. Can the divergence theorem be used to calculate volume?

No, the divergence theorem is used to relate a surface integral to a volume integral, but it does not directly calculate the volume itself. It is a tool used in vector calculus to simplify certain calculations and equations.

4. Does multiplying div F multiply volume?

No, multiplying the divergence of a vector field F by a scalar value does not directly multiply the volume. However, it can change the value of the volume integral when using the divergence theorem, as it is a factor in the equation.

5. What are some practical applications of the divergence theorem?

The divergence theorem has many practical applications in physics and engineering, such as calculating fluid flow, electric and magnetic fields, and heat transfer. It is also used in the study of fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.

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