Chapter 6: Problem 89
For the following exercises, find the flux. Let \(\mathbf{F}=5 \mathbf{j}\) and let \(C\) be curve \(y=0,0 \leq x \leq 4\) Find the flux across \(C .\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
The flux across curve \( C \) is 20.
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Problem
The vector field given is \( \mathbf{F} = 5 \mathbf{j} \), which means the field is constant in the positive \( y \)-direction with a magnitude of 5 at all points. The curve \( C \) is a line along \( y=0 \) from \( x=0 \) to \( x=4 \). We are asked to find the flux across this curve \( C \).
02
Identify Relevant Concepts
Flux through a curve is calculated using the line integral of the vector field \( \mathbf{F} \) across the curve \( C \). The formula for the flux \( \Phi \) is given by \( \Phi = \int_{C} \mathbf{F} \cdot \mathbf{n} \, ds \), where \( \mathbf{n} \) is the unit normal vector to the line and \( ds \) is the differential arc length along the curve.
03
Determine the Unit Normal Vector
Since the curve \( C \) is along the x-axis (\( y = 0 \)), the unit normal vector \( \mathbf{n} \) is simply \( \mathbf{i} \) or \( -\mathbf{i} \), perpendicular to the curve. However, to cross the curve from the inside to outside (conventional for positive flux), take \( \mathbf{n} = \mathbf{j} \).
04
Set Up the Line Integral
Substitute \( \mathbf{F} = 5 \mathbf{j} \) and \( \mathbf{n} = \mathbf{j} \) into the flux formula: \( \Phi = \int_{0}^{4} (5\mathbf{j}) \cdot \mathbf{j} \, dx \). Since \( \mathbf{j} \cdot \mathbf{j} = 1 \), it simplifies to \( \Phi = \int_{0}^{4} 5 \, dx \).
05
Evaluate the Integral
Evaluate the definite integral \( \Phi = \int_{0}^{4} 5 \, dx = 5x \mid_{0}^{4} \). This results in \( \Phi = 5(4) - 5(0) = 20 \).
06
Conclusion
The flux of the vector field \( \mathbf{F} = 5 \mathbf{j} \) across the curve \( C \) is \( 20 \). This value represents the total amount of field crossing the curve from one side to the other.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Vector Field
In mathematics and physics, a vector field is a construction in which each point in space is associated with a vector. Think of it as assigning a direction and magnitude (or "strength") to every point in a region.
For example, a vector field could describe the influence of a magnetic force in a given space or the flow of a fluid.
For example, a vector field could describe the influence of a magnetic force in a given space or the flow of a fluid.
- In our exercise, the vector field is given as \( \mathbf{F} = 5 \mathbf{j} \). This indicates a constant field in the \( y \)-direction with a magnitude of 5.
- Since this vector field is constant, it does not vary with position, making it simpler to calculate aspects like flux.
Line Integral
A line integral, in its simplest form, is a method to sum up values along a curve. Instead of summing up just numbers, you account for varying functions along a line segment or curve.
In the context of a vector field, a line integral can help us understand the "total effect" of a vector field along a path or boundary.
In the context of a vector field, a line integral can help us understand the "total effect" of a vector field along a path or boundary.
- For our exercise, the line integral helps calculate the flux across the curve \( C \).
- Mathematically, this is expressed through the formula \( \Phi = \int_{C} \mathbf{F} \cdot \mathbf{n} \, ds \), where \( \mathbf{F} \) is the vector field, and \( \mathbf{n} \) is the unit normal vector.
Unit Normal Vector
A unit normal vector is a vector of length 1 (unit) that is perpendicular (normal) to a given surface or curve. It helps in delineating the direction for calculations across that boundary.
In flux calculations, the unit normal vector \( \mathbf{n} \) is particularly significant because it helps determine the orientation from inside to outside.
In flux calculations, the unit normal vector \( \mathbf{n} \) is particularly significant because it helps determine the orientation from inside to outside.
- For the exercise, the curve \( C \) lies along the \( x \)-axis, so a logical unit normal vector is \( \mathbf{j} \).
- This perpendicular orientation along the \( y \)-axis aligns perfectly with our vector field \( \mathbf{F} \), simplifying our calculations significantly.
Definite Integral
The definite integral calculates the total accumulation of values over a given interval. It's a cornerstone of calculus that allows us to find areas, volumes, and many other quantities that aggregate information.
In our exercise, evaluating a definite integral follows from setting up the line integral. Once we simplify the expression, we calculate the total effect along the entire curve or segment.
In our exercise, evaluating a definite integral follows from setting up the line integral. Once we simplify the expression, we calculate the total effect along the entire curve or segment.
- Here, the definite integral \( \Phi = \int_{0}^{4} 5 \, dx \) results in a simple multiplication, yielding the value of 20.
- The definite integral's result represents the total flux across the curve \( C \).