Divergence of Curl

In a smooth vector field defined in a region of space (V), the divergence of the curl of is zero, i.e.

Proof of Divergence of Curl

Vector Field : Consider a vector field with components (Fx, Fy, Fz) defined in a region (V).

Curl of : Calculate the curl of using the cross product of the del operator and

Use Cross-Product Identities

Apply Clairaut’s Theorem

Since mixed partial derivatives are equal , the terms cancel each other.

The result simplifies to , confirming the divergence of the curl is zero. This theorem is a consequence of the vector calculus identities and plays a crucial role in understanding the relationships between different operations on vector fields.

Divergence and Curl

Divergence and Curl are important concepts of Mathematics applied to vector fields. Divergence describes how a field behaves concerning or moving away from a point, while curl measures the rotational aspect of the field around a specific point. Divergence operators give scalar results whereas Curl operators give vector results.

In this article, we will learn about the divergence definition, curl definition, divergence of the vector field, curl of a vector field, and others in detail.

Table of Content

  • What is Divergence?
  • What is Curl?
  • Divergence of Vector Field
  • Curl of a Vector Field
  • Divergence of Curl
  • Equations of Divergence and Curl

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What is Divergence?

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What is Curl?

In vector field analysis, the curl is our second focus, gauging the rotational aspect of the field around a specific point. Consider a fluid’s velocity represented by the vector field . The curl of at a point P is a vector indicating how particles near P tend to rotate around the axis aligned with this vector. The curl’s magnitude at P reflects the speed of rotation around this axis. Essentially, the curl signifies the vector field’s “spin” at that particular point. To visualize, think of placing a paddlewheel in the fluid at P, aligning its axis with the curl vector. The curl then characterizes the paddlewheel’s inclination to rotate....

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