Why do we need curvilinear coordinates?

Why do we need curvilinear coordinates?

The formalism of curvilinear coordinates provides a unified and general description of the standard coordinate systems. Curvilinear coordinates are often used to define the location or distribution of physical quantities which may be, for example, scalars, vectors, or tensors.

How do you derive the curl formula?

To obtain a formula for curlF⋅k, we need to choose a particular C. The simplest case is to make C be a rectangle. You can read a sketch of the proof why for such a C, we obtain that the z-component of the curl is curlF⋅k=∂F2∂x−∂F1∂y.

How do you find spherical polar coordinates?

In spherical polar coordinates, h r = 1 , and , which has the same meaning as in cylindrical coordinates, has the value h φ = ρ ; if we express in the spherical coordinates we get h φ = r sin θ . Finally, we note that h θ = r . (6.21) (6.22)

How to get the curl formula in Cartesian coordinate system?

The Curl formula in cartesian coordinate system can be derived from the basic definition of the Curl of a vector field. Go through this article for intuitive derivation. Let’s talk about getting the Curl formula in cylindrical first. Later by analogy you can work for the spherical coordinate system.

What is the curl of the vector field?

Curl of the vector field is an important operation in the study of Electromagnetics and we are well aware with its formulas in all the coordinate systems. Generally, we are familiar with the derivation of the Curl formula in Cartesian coordinate system and remember its Cylindrical and Spherical forms intuitively.

What is the difference between cylindrical and curvilinear coordinate systems?

On the other hand, the curvilinear coordinate systems are in a sense “local” i.e the direction of the unit vectors change with the location of the coordinates. For example, in a cylindrical coordinate system, you know that one of the unit vectors is along the direction of the radius vector.

How do you find the expression for curvilinear coordinates?

The key to deriving expressions for curvilinear coordinates is to consider the arc length along a curve. In particular, let Si represent arc length along a u; curve. From Eq. (A.6­ 2), a vector that is tangent to a Ui curve and directed toward increasing Ui

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