What are the integral curves of vector field V?

In summary, the integral curves of $\textbf{V}$ are described by the function $\textbf{r}(t) = (t\log(C_1 +C_2) + B, t + C_1, -t + C_2)$ with constants $B, C_1, C_2$ chosen such that $C_1 + C_2 > 0$.
  • #1
Aryth1
39
0
My problem is this:

Find the integral curves of $\textbf{V} = (log(y+z),1,-1)$.

I first set up the system:

\(\displaystyle \frac{dx}{log(y+z)} = \frac{dy}{1} = \frac{dz}{-1}\)

I have two find two curves, $u_1$ and $u_2$ that work as integral curves.

The first, and most obvious, function is $u_1(x,y,z) = y + z$. But I'm having trouble finding $u_2$. Any help is greatly appreciated!
 
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  • #2
Aryth said:
My problem is this:

Find the integral curves of $\textbf{V} = (log(y+z),1,-1)$.

I first set up the system:

\(\displaystyle \frac{dx}{log(y+z)} = \frac{dy}{1} = \frac{dz}{-1}\)

I have two find two curves, $u_1$ and $u_2$ that work as integral curves.

The first, and most obvious, function is $u_1(x,y,z) = y + z$. But I'm having trouble finding $u_2$. Any help is greatly appreciated!

Hi Aryth,

An integral curve through $\textbf{V}$ is a function of one variable, not three variables. Let's describe it by $\textbf{r}(t) = (x(t), y(t), z(t))$. Solving the system you have above leads to a general solution

$\displaystyle \textbf{r}(t) = (t\log(C_1 +C_2) + B, t + C_1, -t + C_2)$,

where $B, C_1, C_2$ are all constants such that $C_1 + C_2 > 0$. Now you can choose values for the constants to find two integral curves through $\textbf{V}$.
 

FAQ: What are the integral curves of vector field V?

What are integral curves?

Integral curves are a type of mathematical curve that represents a solution to a differential equation. They are often used in physics and engineering to model real-world systems.

How are integral curves used in science?

Integral curves are used to study the behavior of systems that can be described by differential equations. They provide insights into how a system will change over time and can help scientists make predictions and understand complex systems.

What is the process for finding integral curves?

To find integral curves, one must first solve the differential equation that describes the system. Then, using the initial conditions, the integral curves can be plotted on a graph to visualize the behavior of the system.

Can integral curves be used for any type of system?

Yes, integral curves can be used for any system that can be described by a differential equation. This includes physical systems, biological systems, and economic systems, among others.

Are there any limitations to using integral curves?

Yes, there are limitations to using integral curves. They may not accurately represent the behavior of a system if the initial conditions are not precise or if the system is highly nonlinear. Additionally, some systems may not have a closed-form solution, making it difficult to find integral curves.

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