Math Problem Statement

Verify that \( \nabla \cdot \left( \vec{r} \, \nabla \left( \frac{1}{r^3} \right) \right) = 3 r^{-4} \).

Solution

The expression on the whiteboard reads:

(r(1r3))=3r4\nabla \cdot \left( \vec{r} \, \nabla \left( \frac{1}{r^3} \right) \right) = 3 r^{-4}

It appears to ask for a verification of this result, as indicated by the Turkish phrase "olduğunu gösteriniz," which translates to "show that this is true."

Solution Outline

To solve this problem, we need to:

  1. Use vector calculus to expand and simplify the expression on the left-hand side.
  2. Apply the definition of r=rr^\vec{r} = r \hat{r}, where r=rr = |\vec{r}|, and perform the gradient operation on 1r3\frac{1}{r^3}.
  3. Confirm that the result matches 3r43 r^{-4}.

Would you like a detailed step-by-step solution for this problem?


Here are some related questions that might deepen your understanding:

  1. How do you compute the gradient of 1rn\frac{1}{r^n} for a general nn?
  2. What is the significance of the Laplacian operator in spherical coordinates?
  3. Can we apply this approach to find electric fields from potentials in physics?
  4. How does this computation change if we consider the vector field in cylindrical coordinates?
  5. What other physical scenarios involve operations like (rf(r))\nabla \cdot (\vec{r} f(r))?

Tip

Understanding vector calculus operations like divergence and gradient in spherical coordinates can simplify many physics problems, especially in fields like electromagnetism.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Vector Calculus
Divergence
Gradient
Spherical Coordinates

Formulas

Divergence: \( \nabla \cdot \vec{F} \)
Gradient of a scalar field
Radial distance \( r = |\vec{r}| \)

Theorems

Divergence Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

College-level