Question on integration of a gradient.

In summary, integration of a gradient is a mathematical process that involves finding the antiderivative of a gradient, which is a vector field representing the rate of change of a scalar field in different directions. It is important because it allows us to find the original scalar field from its gradient, which is useful in many applications such as physics, engineering, and economics. This process is performed by finding the antiderivative of each component of the gradient vector and combining them to form the original scalar field. Integration of a gradient and differentiation are inverse processes, with integration being the reverse of differentiation. Real-life examples of the use of integration of a gradient include calculating potential energy, finding fluid velocity, and determining electric fields.
  • #1
yungman
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Why

[tex] \int_a^b \nabla T\; d\vec l \;=\; T(b)-T(a)[/tex]

Why integration of a gradient is always path independent?
 
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  • #2
yungman said:
Why

[tex] \int_a^b \nabla T\; d\vec l \;=\; T(b)-T(a)[/tex]

Why integration of a gradient is always path independent?
This is the essence of the gradient theorem, which is a generalisation of the fundamental theorem of calculus. One can prove the gradient theorem with a simple application of Stokes' theorem.
 

FAQ: Question on integration of a gradient.

What is integration of a gradient?

Integration of a gradient is a mathematical process that involves finding the antiderivative of a gradient, which is a vector field representing the rate of change of a scalar field in different directions.

Why is integration of a gradient important?

Integration of a gradient is important because it allows us to find the original scalar field from its gradient, which is useful in many applications such as physics, engineering, and economics.

3. How is integration of a gradient performed?

Integration of a gradient is performed by finding the antiderivative of each component of the gradient vector and combining them to form the original scalar field.

4. What is the relationship between integration of a gradient and differentiation?

The relationship between integration of a gradient and differentiation is that they are inverse processes. Integration of a gradient is the reverse of differentiation, and vice versa.

5. What are some real-life examples of the use of integration of a gradient?

Some real-life examples of the use of integration of a gradient include calculating the potential energy of an object in a gravitational field, finding the velocity of a fluid flow from its acceleration, and determining the electric field from the electric potential.

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