Flux through the Surface of the Plane

In summary, the problem involves finding the upward flux of a given vector through a surface defined by an equation in the first octant. The solution involves using the formula for flux and partial differentiation of the given vector. The final answer is 292/3, obtained by integrating within the correct bounds.
  • #1
waters
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Homework Statement


Find the upward flux of F = <x + z, y + z, 5 - x - y>, through the surface of the plane 4x + 2y + z = 8 in the first octant.

Homework Equations


∫∫(-P(∂f/∂x) - Q(∂f/∂y) + R)dA
where the vector F(x,y) = <P, Q, R>, dA = dxdy
and where z = f(x,y) <-- f(x,y) is the function that undergoes partial differentiaion

The Attempt at a Solution


F(f(x,y)) = <8 - 3x - 2y, 8 - 4x - y, 5 - x - y>
∂z/∂x = -4, ∂z/∂y = -2
∫∫(53-21x-11y)dxdy evaluated from x = 0 to x = 2 and y = 0 to y = 4 (shadow on the xy plane of the function 4x + 2y + z = 8)

My final answer is 80. The answer is 292/3. What am I doing wrong?
 
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  • #2
Never mind. The mistake I made was integrate from y = 0 to y = 4 when it should have been from y = 0 to y = -2x + 4.
 

FAQ: Flux through the Surface of the Plane

What is flux through the surface of a plane?

The flux through the surface of a plane refers to the amount of a vector field that passes through the surface of a plane. It is a measure of the flow or movement of a vector quantity through a given surface.

How is flux through the surface of a plane calculated?

The flux through the surface of a plane is calculated by taking the dot product of the vector field and the normal vector of the surface. This is then multiplied by the surface area to give the total flux.

What is the significance of calculating flux through the surface of a plane?

Calculating flux through the surface of a plane is important in many areas of physics and engineering. It allows us to measure the flow of quantities such as electric or magnetic fields, fluid flow, and heat transfer. It also helps us to understand the behavior of these fields and how they interact with surfaces.

How does the orientation of the surface affect the flux through the surface of a plane?

The orientation of the surface is crucial in determining the flux through the surface of a plane. The dot product between the vector field and the surface normal is positive if the field is moving towards the surface, and negative if it is moving away. This means that the orientation of the surface can greatly affect the direction and magnitude of the flux.

Can flux through the surface of a plane be negative?

Yes, the flux through the surface of a plane can be negative. This occurs when the vector field is moving away from the surface, resulting in a negative dot product. Negative flux is often associated with sources or sinks of the vector field.

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