Does This Calculation Verify Stokes' Theorem Correctly?

  • Thread starter mjf67089
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Theorem
In summary, the conversation discusses verifying Stoke's theorem for a given surface and vector field. The solution involves parametrizing the surface and calculating two integrals, which both turn out to be 0, confirming the validity of Stoke's theorem. The conversation also highlights the importance of double checking calculations and providing clear steps to ensure accuracy.
  • #1
mjf67089
2
0

Homework Statement



Verify stoke's theorem for F(x,y,z)= y (i) where S is the hemisphere x^2+y^2+z^2=1, z is greater than or equal to zero, and the hemisphere is oriented in the direction of the positive z-axis.


Homework Equations



The equations that would apply here would be the equations for the two integrals to be computed, the Line integral: F(dr) and of the flux: curl(F)(ds).

The Attempt at a Solution



I think I have solved this problem but would like input on if my answer is right or wrong. If wrong, I'd appreciated the right answer and how to find it or hints. Here is my work:

parametrization: x=cos(t); y=sin(t); z=0
f(r(t))= (sin(t),0,0); dr= (cos(t))dt
F(r(t)) x dr = sin(t)cos(t)dt

the integral from 0 to 2(pi) sin(t)cos(t) equals (sin^2(t))/2. Plugging in 2pi and 0 one gets that this integral is equal to 0.

Now, for the second part of the verification process.
Curl = i j k
d/dx d/dy d/dz
y 0 0
This set up leads curl to be equal to: (0(x),0(y),-1(k)).
To find Rx x Ry, I remembered the parametrization that I set up, that is to say Rx x Ry is
(sin(t),0,0). Once you dot these two equations you get 0 so you know this second integral is equal to 0 as well.

Thus it appears that I have verified Stoke's theorem as both integrals are 0. Am I correct?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


it is important to always double check your work and make sure your calculations are correct. In this case, your solution appears to be correct. However, there are a few things you can do to improve your work and make your solution more clear.

Firstly, it would be helpful to include a diagram or visualization of the hemisphere and the direction of the positive z-axis. This can help the reader better understand the problem and the orientation of the surface.

Secondly, when parametrizing the surface, it is important to check that the parametrization actually covers the entire surface. In this case, the parametrization x=cos(t), y=sin(t), z=0 only covers the top half of the hemisphere. To fully parametrize the surface, you would need to include the bottom half as well, which can be done by setting z=-sqrt(1-x^2-y^2). This ensures that the entire surface is covered and the parametrization is valid.

Additionally, it would be helpful to show the steps of your calculations for both integrals, rather than just stating the final answer. This can help the reader follow along and understand your thought process.

Overall, your solution appears to be correct. However, including a diagram, checking the parametrization, and showing your calculations in more detail can make your solution more clear and easy to follow.
 

FAQ: Does This Calculation Verify Stokes' Theorem Correctly?

What is Stoke's theorem?

Stoke's theorem is a fundamental theorem in vector calculus that relates the surface integral of a vector field over a closed surface to the line integral of the same vector field along the boundary of the surface.

Why is Stoke's theorem important?

Stoke's theorem is important because it allows us to easily calculate surface integrals by converting them into line integrals, which are usually easier to solve. It also has many applications in physics and engineering, such as in fluid mechanics and electromagnetism.

How is Stoke's theorem derived?

Stoke's theorem is derived from the fundamental theorem of calculus and the divergence theorem. It involves breaking down a surface into small pieces and applying the definition of a line integral to each piece, then taking the limit as the number of pieces approaches infinity.

What are the conditions for Stoke's theorem to be applicable?

Stoke's theorem is applicable when the surface is smooth and orientable, the boundary of the surface is a simple closed curve, and the vector field is continuous and differentiable in the region enclosed by the surface.

How is Stoke's theorem used in real-world problems?

Stoke's theorem has many applications in physics and engineering, such as calculating the flow of a fluid over a surface or the magnetic field around a closed loop. It is also used in more abstract fields like differential geometry to study the topology of manifolds.

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
10
Views
1K
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
929
Replies
1
Views
3K
Back
Top