Normal vector in surface integral of vector field

In summary, the conversation discusses the orientation of the normal vector and its relationship to the values of dz/dx and dz/dy. It is mentioned that when vectors and lines are perpendicular, they have opposite signs. The author suggests trying examples to understand this concept and asks for an explanation and examples. The conversation then shifts to discussing a surface defined by a function and the calculation of the normal vector. The conversation ends with a suggestion to fill in the values and make a sketch to better understand the concept.
  • #1
foo9008
678
4

Homework Statement


when the normal vector n is oriented upward , why the dz/dx and dz/dy is negative ? shouldn't the k = positive , while the dz/dx and dz/dy is also positive?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


is the author wrong ? [/B]
 

Attachments

  • DSC_0001.JPG
    DSC_0001.JPG
    61 KB · Views: 456
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Try a few examples and you'll see.
Remember when vectors are perpendicular
and when lines are perpendicular
 
  • #3
BvU said:
Try a few examples and you'll see.
Remember when vectors are perpendicular
and when lines are perpendicular
Can you give some example?
 
  • #4
z = x
 
  • #5
BvU said:
z = x
i still don't understand what do you mean, can you explain further?
 
  • #6
The surface ##\sigma## is defined by ##\phi(x,y,z)=0## where ##\phi(x,y,z)=z-f(x,y)##, and the normal is the gradient of ##\phi(x,y,z)##. What do you get when you calculate that?
 
  • #7
vela said:
The surface ##\sigma## is defined by ##\phi(x,y,z)=0## where ##\phi(x,y,z)=z-f(x,y)##, and the normal is the gradient of ##\phi(x,y,z)##. What do you get when you calculate that?
why it will become like this ?
 
  • #8
Why don't you simply fill it in and see ? Asking 'why' forever doesn't make sense. Make a sketch for the simplest case if 4.5.1 is too complicated.
 
  • #9
foo9008 said:
why it will become like this ?
I'm sure this is covered in your textbook.
 

Related to Normal vector in surface integral of vector field

1. What is a normal vector in the context of a surface integral of a vector field?

A normal vector is a vector that is perpendicular to a surface at a given point. It is used to determine the orientation and direction of the surface for the purposes of calculating a surface integral of a vector field.

2. How is a normal vector calculated in a surface integral of a vector field?

There are multiple methods for calculating a normal vector, depending on the specific surface and vector field being considered. In general, the normal vector can be found by taking the cross product of two tangent vectors to the surface at a given point.

3. Why is a normal vector important in a surface integral of a vector field?

A normal vector is important because it determines the direction and orientation of the surface being integrated over. This is necessary for accurately calculating the flux or flow of a vector field over the surface.

4. Can a normal vector be negative in a surface integral of a vector field?

Yes, a normal vector can have a negative magnitude. This indicates that the surface is oriented in the opposite direction to the chosen direction of the normal vector. However, in most cases, the magnitude of the normal vector is not as important as its direction.

5. How is the normal vector used to set up a surface integral of a vector field?

The normal vector is used to determine the orientation and direction of the surface, which is necessary for setting up the integral. It is also used to calculate the dot product with the vector field, which is a key step in evaluating the surface integral.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
790
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
924
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top