KG Reddy College of Engineering and Technology

UNIT I8

Vector Calculus
VECTOR DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS
The vector differential calculus extends the basic concepts of (ordinary) differential calculus to
vector functions, by introducing derivative of a vector function and the new concepts of gradient,
divergence and curl.

4.1 VECTOR FUNCTION

If the vector r varies corresponding to the variation of a scalar variable t that is its length and
direction be known and determine as soon as a value of t is given, then r is called a vector
function of t and written as
r = f (t)
and read it as r equals a vector function of t.
Any vector f (t) can be expressed in the component form

f (t) = f1(t) i + f2 (t) j + f3 (t) k

Where f1(t), f2 (t), f3 (t) are three scalar functions of t.

r = 5t2 i + t j – t3 k
For example,
where f1(t) = 5t2, f2(t) = t, f3 (t) = – t3.

4.2 VECTOR DIFFERENTIATION

Let r = f (t) be a single valued continuous vector point function of a scalar variable t. Let O be
the origin of vectors. Let OP represents the vector r corresponding to a certain value t to the
scalar variable t. Then
r = f (t) ...(i)
1
2 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

Let OQ represents the vector r + δ r corresponding to the value t + δt of the scalar variable
t, where δt is infinitesimally small.
Then,
Q
r + δ r = f (t + δt) ...(i)
®
Subracting (i) from (ii) dr
—
dt

dr ®
δ r = f (t + δt) – f (t) ...(iii)

r+
®
Dividing both sides by δt, we get
δr f ( t + δt ) − f ( t ) P
=
δt δt ®
r
Taking the limit of both side as δt → 0.
O

We obtain lim δ r = lim f (t + δt) − f (t)

δt→0
t→0
δt δt
Fig. 5.1
dr lim f (t + δt) − f (t) = d f (t)
= δt→0 .
dt δt dt

4.3 SOME RESULTS ON DIFFERENTIATION

H
d H dr d s
(a) (r − s ) = − ⋅
dt dt dt
H
d( sr ) ds dr
(b) = r+s
dt dt dt
d( a ⋅ b) H db da
(c) = a⋅ + ⋅b
dt dt dt
d da db
(d) ( a × b) = ×b+a×
dt dt dt
d
n s da H FG
db IJ dc FG IJ
(e)
dt
a × (b × c) =
dt
× (b × c ) + a ×
H
dt K
×c +a× b×
dt
⋅
H K
dr
Velocity v = r = ⋅
dt
dv d2 r
Acceleration a =
= ⋅
dt dt 2
Example 1. A particle moves along the curve x = t3 + 1, y = t2, z = 2t + 5, where t is the time.
Find the component of its velocity and acceleration at t = 1 in the direction i + j + 3k.
dr d 
Sol. Velocity = ( xi + y j + zk)
dt dt
d 3
= (t + 1)i + t 2 j + (2t + 5) k
dt

= 3t i + 2t j + 2 k
2
VECTOR CALCULUS 3

= 3i + 2 j + 2k , at t = 1.
Again unit vector in the direction of i + j + 3 k is

i + j + 3k i + j + 3 k
=
d1 2
+ 12 + 32 i =
11

Therefore, the component of velocity at t = 1 in the direction of i + j + 3 k is

d3i + 2 j + 2ki ⋅ di + j + 3ki =

3+2+6
=
11 11 11

d2 r FG IJ
d dr
Acceleration
dt 2
=
H K
dt dt
= 6ti + 2 j = 6i + 2 j , at t = 1

Therefore, the component of acceleration at t = 1 in the direction i + j + 3 k is

d6i + 2 j i ⋅ di + j + 3k i =

6+2
=
8
·
11 11 11
Example 2. A particle moves along the curve x = 4 cos t, y = 4 sin t, z = 6t. Find the velocity
and acceleration at time t = 0 and t = π/2. Find also the magnitudes of the velocity and accelera-
tion at any time t.
Sol. Let r = 4 cos t i + 4 sin t j + 6t k
H
at t = 0, v = 4 j + 6 k
π H
at t = , v = −4i + 6 k
2
at t = 0, |v| = 16 + 36 = 52 = 2 13
π
at t =
2
, |v| = 16 + 36 = 52 = 2 13 .

d2 r
Again, acceleration, a = = – 4 cos t i – 4 sin t j
dt 2
at t = 0, a = – 4 i
∴ at t = 0, |a| = (−4)2 = 4
π
at t = , a = – 4 j
2
π
at t = , |a| = (−4)2 = 4.
2
Example 3. If r = a ent + b e–nt, where a, b are constant vectors, then prove that
d2 r
− n2 r = 0
dt 2
Sol. nt
r = ae + be
−nt
...(i)
dr − nt
= ae ⋅ n + be ⋅ ( −n)
nt
dt
4 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

d2 r
= ae nt ⋅ n 2 + be − nt ⋅ ( − n)2
dt 2

d2 r
= n 2 ae nt + be − nt = n2r [From (i)]
dt 2
d2 r
⇒ – n 2 r = 0. Hence proved.
dt 2
H H H
Example 4. If a , b , c are constant vectors then show that r = at 2 + bt + c is the path of a
point moving with constant acceleration.
Sol. r = at + bt + c
2

dr
= 2at + b
dt
d2 r
= 2a which is a constant vector.
dt 2
Hence, acceleration of the moving point is a constant. Hence proved.

EXERCISE 4.1
1. A particle moves along a curve whose parametric equations are x = e–t, y = 2 cos 3t,
z = sin 3t.
Find the velocity and acceleration at t = 0.
[Hint: r = xi + yj + zk ]
Ans. Vel. = 10 , acc. = 5 13
2. A particle moves along the curve

x = 3t2, y = t2 – 2t, z = t2.

H
Find the velocity and acceleration at t = 1. Ans. v = 2 10 , a = 2 11
3. Find the angle between the directions of the velocity and acceleration vectors at time t of
LM
Ans. arc cos t
2 OP
a particle with position vector r = (t 2 + 1)i − 2tj + (t 2 − 1)k .
MN 2t + 1
2
PQ
4. A particle moves along the curve x = 2t2, y = t2 – 4t, z = 3t – 5 where t is the time. Find
the components of its velocity and acceleration at time t = 1 in the direction i − 3 j + 2 k .

LMAns. 8 14
;−
14 OP
MN 7 7 PQ
5. If r = (sec t) i + (tan t) j be the position vector of P. Find the velocity and acceleration
π LMAns. 2 4  2
i + j, (5i + 4 j )
OP
of P at t =
6
.
N 3 3 3 3 Q
VECTOR CALCULUS 5

4.4 SCALAR POINT FUNCTION

If for each point P of a region R, there corresponds a scalar denoted by f(P), then f is called a
‘‘scalar point function’’ for the region R.
Example 1. The temperature f(P) at any point P of a certain body occupying a certain region
R is a scalar point function.
Example 2. The distance of any point P(x, y, z) in space from a fixed point (x0, y0, z0) is a
scalar function.
f(P) = (x − x0 ) 2 + ( y − y0 ) 2 + ( z − z 0 ) 2 ⋅
Scalar field (U.P.T.U., 2001)
Scalar field is a region in space such that for every point P in this region, the scalar function
f associates a scalar f(P).

4.5 VECTOR POINT FUNCTION

If for each point P of a region R, there corresponds a vector f (P) then f is called “vector point
function” for the region R.
Example. If the velocity of a particle at a point P, at any time t be f (P), then f is a vector
point function for the region occupied by the particle at time t.
If the coordinates of P be (x, y, z ) then
f (P) = f1 (x, y, z) i + f2 (x, y, z) j + f3 (x, y, z) k.
Vector field (U.P.T.U., 2001)
Vector field is a region in space such that with every point P in the region, the vector
function f associates a vector f (P).
Del operator: The linear vector differential (Hamiltorian) operator ‘‘del’’ defined and
^ ∂ ^ ∂ ^ ∂
denoted as ∇ = i +j +k
∂x ∂y ∂z
This operator also read nabla. It is not a vector but combines both differential and vectorial
properties analogous to those of ordinary vectors.

4.6 GRADIENT OR SLOPE OF SCALAR POINT FUNCTION

If f(x, y, z) be a scalar point function and continuously differentiable then the vector
 ∂f  ∂f  ∂f
∇ f = i ∂x + j ∂y + k ∂z
is called the gradient of f and is written as grad f. (U.P.T.U., 2006)
∂f ∂f ∂f
Thus grad f = i ∂x + j ∂y + k ∂z = ∇ f

∂f ∂f ∂f
It should be noted that ∇f is a vector whose three components are , , ⋅ Thus, if f
∂x ∂y ∂z
is a scalar point function, then ∇f is a vector point function.
6 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

4.7 GEOMETRICAL MEANING OF GRADIENT, NORMAL

Consider any point P in a region throught which a scalar field (U.P.T.U., 2001)
f(x, y, z) = c defined. Suppose that ∇f ≠ 0 at P and that there is
a f = const. surface S through P and a tangent plane T; for Normal N at P
instance, if f is a temperature field, then S is an isothermal sur- Z ^
face (level surface). If n , at P, is choosen as any vector in the N

df
tangent plane T, then surely must be zero.
dS
S P
df n^
Since = ∇f . n = 0
dS
for every n at P in the tangent plane, and both ∇f and n are
non-zero, it follows that ∇f is normal to the tangent plane T
and hence to the surface S at P. f = Constant
If letting n be in the tangent plane, we learn that ∇f is normal
X Y
to S, then to seek additional information about ∇f it seems
Fig. 5.2
logical to let n be along the normal line at P,.
df df
Then = , N = n then
ds dN
df
= ∇f ⋅ N = ∇ f ⋅ 1 cos 0 = ∇ f ⋅
dN
So that the magnitude of ∇f is the directional derivative of f along the normal line to S, in
the direction of increasing f.

Hence, ‘‘The gradient e∇ f j of scalar field f(x, y, z) at P is vector normal to the surface
df
f = const. and has a magnitude is equal to the directional derivative in that direction.
dN

4.8 DIRECTIONAL DERIVATIVE

∂f ∂f ∂f
Let f = f(x, y, z) then the partial derivatives , , are the derivatives (rates of change) of f
∂x ∂y ∂z
in the direction of the coordinate axes OX, OY, OZ respectively. This concept can be extended to
define a derivative of f in a "given" direction PQ . s

Let P be a point in space and b be a unit vector from

P in the given direction. Let s be the are length measured
from P to another point Q along the ray C in the direction P ^
b
Q C
of b . Now consider
Fig. 5.3
f(s) = f(x, y, z) = f{x(s), y(s), z(s)}
df ∂f dx ∂f dy ∂f dz
Then = + + ...(i)
ds ∂x ds ∂y ds ∂z ds
VECTOR CALCULUS 7

df
Here is called directional derivative of f at P in the direction b which gives the rate of
ds
change of f in the direction of b.
dx  dy  dz 
Since, i+ j + k = b = unit vector ...(ii)
ds ds ds
Eqn. (i) can be rewritten as
FG i ∂f + j ∂f + k ∂f IJ ⋅ FG dx i + dy j + dz kIJ
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K H ds ds ds K
df
=
ds
df LMFG i ∂ + y ∂ + k ∂ IJ f OP ⋅ b = ∇f ⋅ b
ds
=
NH δx δy δz K Q ...(iii)

Thus the directional derivative of f at P is the component (dot product) of ∇f in the direction
of (with) unit vector b.
Hence the directional derivative in the direction of any unit vector a is

F I
df
ds
= ∇f ·
a
a
GH JK
df
Normal derivative = ∇f ⋅ n , where n is the unit normal to the surface f = constant.
dn

4.9 PROPERTIES OF GRADIENT

Property I: ( a ⋅ ∇) f = a ⋅ (∇f )

Proof: L.H.S. = ( a ⋅ ∇) f
RSa ⋅ FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ UV f
=
T H ∂x ∂y ∂z K W
RS(a ⋅ i) ∂ + (a ⋅ j) ∂ + ( a ⋅ k) ∂ UV f
=
T ∂x ∂y ∂z W
∂f ∂f ∂f
= ( a ⋅ i) + ( a ⋅ j ) + ( a ⋅ k) ...(i)
∂x ∂y ∂z
R.H.S. = a ⋅ ∇fb g
F ∂f + j ∂f + k ∂f IJ
a ⋅Gi
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∂f ∂f ∂f
= ( a ⋅ i ) ∂x + ( a ⋅ j ) ∂y + ( a ⋅ k ) ∂z ...(ii)
From (i) and (ii),

baH ⋅∇g f H
b g
= a⋅ ∇ f .
8 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

Property II: Gradient of a Constant

The necessary and sufficient condition that scalar point function φ is a constant is that
∇φ = 0.
Proof: Let φ(x, y, z) = c
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
Then, = = =0
∂x ∂y ∂z
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
∴ ∇φ = i+j + k
∂x ∂y ∂z
= i.0 + j.0 + k.0
= 0.
Hence, the condition is necessary.
Conversely: Let ∇φ = 0.
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
Then, i +j + k = 0.i + 0.j + 0.k.
∂x ∂y ∂z
Equating the coefficients of i, j, k.
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
On both sides, we get = 0. = 0, =0
∂x ∂y ∂z
⇒ φ is independent of x, y, z
⇒ φ is constant.
Hence, the condition is sufficient.
Property III: Gradient of the Sum of Difference of Two Functions
If f and g are any two scalar point functions, then
∇ (f ± g) = ∇f ± ∇g
or grad (f ± g) = grad f ± grad g
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ( f ± g)
Proof: ∇ (f ± g) =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∂ ∂ ∂
= i ∂x ( f ± g ) + j ∂y ( f ± g) + k ∂z ( f ± g)

FG ∂f ∂g IJ FG ∂f ± ∂g IJ + k FG ∂f ∂g IJ
= i H ∂x ±
∂x K + j
H ∂y ∂y K H ∂z ±
∂z K
FG i ∂f ∂g ∂f I
+ k J ± Gi
F ∂g + j ∂g ∂g IJ
=
H ∂x + j
∂y ∂z K H ∂x ∂y + k
∂z K
∇(f ± g) = grad f ± grad g.

Property IV: Gradient of the Product of Two Functions

If f and g are two scalar point functions, then
∇(fg) = f∇g + g∇ f
or grad (fg) = f (grad g) + g (grad f).
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ( fg)
Proof: ∇(fg) =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
VECTOR CALCULUS 9

∂ ∂ ∂
= i ( fg) + j ( fg) + k ( fg)
∂x ∂y ∂z

FG ∂g + g ∂f IJ + j FG f ∂g + g ∂f IJ + k FG f ∂g + g ∂f IJ
= i f
H ∂x ∂x K H ∂y ∂y K H ∂z ∂z K
F ∂g + j ∂g + k ∂g IJ + g FG i ∂f + j ∂f + k ∂f IJ
f Gi
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∇(fg) = f∇g + g∇f.

Property V: Gradient of the Quotient of Two Functions

If f and g are two scalar point functions, then
FG f IJ g∇f − f∇g
∇
H gK =
g2
, g≠0

F fI
grad G g J
g(grad f ) − f (grad g)
or
H K =
g2
, ≠ 0.

F fI
∇ G gJ
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ FG f IJ
Proof:
H K =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K H g K
∂ F fI ∂ FfI ∂ FfI
= i G J
∂x H g K
+j G J
∂y H g K
+k G J
∂z H g K

∂f ∂g ∂f ∂g ∂f ∂g
g −f g −f g −f
∂x ∂x + j ∂ ∂
+ k ∂z 2 ∂z
y y
= i
g2 g2 g

LM ∂f + j ∂f + k ∂f OP − f LMi ∂g + j ∂g + k ∂g OP
N ∂z ∂y ∂z Q N ∂x ∂y ∂z Q
g i
=
g2

FG f IJ g∇f − f∇g
∇
H gK =
g2
.

Example 1. If r = xi + yj + zk then show that (U.P.T.U., 2007)

(i) ∇( a ⋅ r) = a , where a is a constant vector
r
(ii) grad r =
r
1 r
(iii) grad = – 3
r r
(iv) grad rn = nrn – 2 r , where r = r .
H
Sol. (i) Let a = a1 i + a2 j + a 3 k, r = xi + yj + zk ,
then a⋅r = ( a1i + a2 j + a3 k) ⋅ ( xi + yj + zk) = a1x + a2y + a3z.
10 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ
∴ ∇( a ⋅ r) =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K (a1x + a2y + a3z)
H
= a1 i + a 2 j + a 3 k = a . Hence proved.
∂ 2
(ii) grad r = ∆r = Σi ( x + y 2 + z 2 )1/2
∂x
x x =r
= Σi 2 2 1/2 = Σi
(x + y + z )
2
r
xi + yj + zk r
Hence, grad r = = = r .
r r
F 1I 1 FI ∂ 1 −1 r FI
(iii) grad H rK = ∇
r
= HK∂r r
r = 2
r r HK
r
= − . Proved.
r3
(iv) Let r = xi + yj + zk.
∂ 2
Now, grad rn = ∇rn = Σi ( x + y 2 + z 2 )n/2
∂x
= n (x2 + y2 + z2)n/2–1 xi + yj + zk d i
exi + yj + zkj
ex + y + z j
2 2 2 (n–1)/2
= n(x + y + z ) 2 2 2 1/2

r
= nr n−1
r
= nr n−2 r .
Example 2. If f = 3x2y – y3z2, find grad f at the point (1, –2, –1). (U.P.T.U., 2006)

H FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ( 3x y − y z )
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
2 3 2
Sol. grad f = ∇f =

i c 3x y − y z h + j ( 3x y − y z ) + k ( 3x y − y z )
∂ 2 ∂3 2 ∂ 2 3 2 2 3 2
=
∂x ∂y ∂z
= i(6xy) + j(3x2 – 3y2z2) + k(–2y3z)
grad φ at (1, –2, –1) = i(6)(1)(–2) + j [(3)(1) – 3(4)(1)] + k(–2)(–8)(–1)
= –12i – 9j – 16k.
1
Example 3. Find the directional derivative of in the direction r where r = xi + yj + zk.
r
(U.P.T.U., 2002, 2005)
1 1
Sol. Here f(x, y, z) = = = (x2 + y2 + z2)–1/2
r x2 + y2 + z2
FG ∂ ∂ ∂ IJ c h − 1/2
Now ∇f = i
H ∂x
+j
∂y
+k
∂z K
x2 + y2 + z2
VECTOR CALCULUS 11

∂ 2
=
∂ 2
∂x
d
x + y2 + z2 i −1/2
i+
∂ 2
∂y
2 2 −1/2
( x + y 2 + z 2 ) −1/2 j + ∂z ( x + y + z ) k

RS− 1 (x + y + z ) UV RS
1 UV 1RS UV
j + − ( x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) −3/2 2 z k
T W
2 −3/2
2x i + − (x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) −3/2 2 y
T 2 W T W
2 2
=
2 2
−b xi + yj + zk g
cx + y + z h
=
2 2 2 3/2

and a = unit vector in the direction of xi + yj + zk

xi + yj + zk r
= As a =
x2 + y2 + z2 r
xi + yj + zk xi + yj + zk
∴ Directional derivative = ∇f · a = − ⋅
(x + y + z )
2 2 2 3/2
cx + y + z h
2 2 2 1/2

= −
(xi + yj + zk ) 2
= −G
F xi + yj + zk IJ 2
⋅
(x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) 2 Hx + y +z K2 2 2

Example 4. Find the directional derivative of φ = x2yz + 4xz2 at (1, – 2, –1) in the direction
2i – j – 2k. In what direction the directional derivative will be maximum and what is its magni-
tude? Also find a unit normal to the surface x2yz + 4xz2 = 6 at the point (1, – 2, – 1).
Sol. φ = x2yz + 4xz2
∂φ
∴ = 2xyz + 4z2
∂x
∂φ
2
∂y = x z,
∂φ
= x2y + 8xz
∂z
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
grad φ = i +j +k
∂x ∂y ∂z
= (2xyz + 4z ) i + (x2z) j + (x2y + 8xz)k
2

= 8i – j – 10k at the point (1, – 2, – 1)

Let a be the unit vector in the given direction.
2i − j − 2k 2i − j − 2 k
Then a = =
4+1+ 4 3
dφ
∴ Directional derivative = ∇φ ⋅ a
ds
FG 2i − j − 2k IJ
= (8i – j – 10k) ·
H 3 K
16 + 1 + 20 37
= = ·
3 3
12 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

Again, we know that the directional derivative is maximum in the direction of normal
which is the direction of grad φ. Hence, the directional derivative is maximum along grad
φ = 8i – j – 10k.
Further, maximum value of the directional derivative
= |grad φ|
= |8i – j – 10k|
=64 + 1 + 100 = 165 .
Again, a unit vector normal to the surface
grad φ
=
|grad φ|

8i − j − 10k
= ·
165
Example 5. What is the greatest rate of increase of u = xyz2 at the point (1, 0, 3)?
Sol. u = xyz2
∂u ∂u ∂u
∴ grad u = i +j +k
∂x ∂y ∂z
= yz2 i + xz2 j + 2xyz k
= 9j at (1, 0, 3) point.
Hence, the greatest rate of increase of u at (1, 0, 3)
= |grad u| at (1, 0, 3) point.
= |9j| = 9.
Example 6. Find the directional derivative of
φ = (x2 + y2 + z2)–1/2
at the points (3, 1, 2) in the direction of the vector yz i + zx j + xy k.
Sol. φ = (x2 + y2 + z2)–1/2
∂ 2 ∂
∴ grad φ = i ( x + y 2 + z 2 ) −1/2 + j ( x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) −1/2
∂x ∂y
∂ 2
+ k ( x + y 2 + z 2 ) −1/2
∂z
LM
1 2 2 −3/2 1 OP LM
( 2 x ) + j − ( x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) −3/2 (2 y )
OP
N
= i − (x + y + z )
Q N Q
2
2 2
1 LM
+ k − ( x 2 + y 2 + z 2 ) −3/2
O
( 2 z )P
2 N Q
xi + yj + zk
= −
( x + y 2 + z 2 ) 3/2
2

3i + j + 2k
= − at (3, 1, 2)
(9 + 1 + 4) 3/2
3i + j + 2k
= − at (3, 1, 2)
14 14
VECTOR CALCULUS 13

Let a be the unit vector in the given direction, then

yzi + zxj + xyk
a =
y z + z 2 x2 + x 2 y 2
2 2

2i + 6 j + 3 k
= at (3, 1, 2)
7
dφ
Now, = a . grad φ
ds
FG 2i + 6 j + 3k IJ ⋅ FG − 3i + j + 2k IJ
=
H 7 K H 14 14 K
( 2 )( 3) + ( 6 )(1) + ( 3 )(2 )
= −
7.14 14
18 9
= − = − ·
7.14 14 49 14
Example 7. Find the directional derivative of the function φ = x2 – y2 + 2z2 at the point
P(1, 2, 3) in the direction of the line PQ, where Q is the point (5, 0, 4).
Sol. Here
Position vector of P = i + 2j + 3k
Position vector of Q = 5i + 0j + 4k
∴ PQ = Position vector of Q – Position vector of P
= (5i + 0j + 4k) – (i + 2j + 3k)
= 4i – 2j + k.
Let a be the unit vector along PQ, then
4i − 2 j + k 4i − 2 j + k
a = =
16 + 4 + 1 21
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
Also, grad φ = i +j +k
∂x ∂y ∂z
= 2x i – 2y j + 4z k
= 2i – 4j + 12k at (1, 2, 3)
dφ
Hence, = a . grad φ
ds
FG 4i − 2 j + k IJ ⋅ (2i − 4 j + 12k)
=
H 21 K
( 4)( 2) + ( −2)( −4) + (1)(12)
=
21
28
= ⋅
21
Example 8. For the function
y
φ = ,
x2 + y2
14 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

find the magnitude of the directional derivative making an angle 30° with the positive X-axis at
the point (0, 1).
y
Sol. Here φ =
x + y2
2

∂φ 2 xy
∴ = –
∂x (x + y 2 )2
2

∂φ x2 − y2 ∂φ
= 2 2 and =0
∂y (x + y )
2
∂z
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
∴ grad φ = i +j +k
∂x ∂y ∂z
∂φ
+j
∂φ LM3 ∂φ = 0OP
= i
∂x ∂y N ∂z Q
−2xy x2 − y2
= i+ j
( x 2 + y 2 )2 (x 2 + y 2 )2
= – j at (0, 1).
Let a be the unit vector along the line making an angle 30° with the positive X-axis at the
point (0, 1), then
a = cos 30° i + sin 30° j.
Hence, the directional derivative is given by
dφ
= a . grad φ
ds
= (cos 30° i + sin 30° j) · (–j)
1
= – sin 30° = – ·
2
Example 9. Find the values of the constants a, b, c so that the directional derivative of
φ = axy2 + byz + cz2x3 at (1, 2, –1) has a maximum magnitude 64 in the direction parallel to Z-axis.
Sol. φ = axy2 + byz + cz2x3
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
∴ grad φ = i+ j+ k
∂x ∂y ∂z
= (ay2 + 3cz2x2) i + (2axy + bz) j + (by + 2czx3) k
= (4a + 3c) i + (4a – b) j + (2b – 2c) k. at (1, 2, –1).
Now, we know that the directional derivative is maximum along the normal to the surface,
i.e., along grad φ. But we are given that the directional derivative is maximum in the direction
parallel to Z-axis, i.e., parallel to the vector k.
Hence, the coefficients of i and j in grad φ should vanish and the coefficient of k should be
positive. Thus
4a + 3c = 0 ...(i)
4a – b = 0 ...(ii)
and 2b – 2c > 0
b > c ...(iii)
Then grad φ = 2(b – c) k.
VECTOR CALCULUS 15

Also, maximum value of the directional derivative =|grad φ|

⇒ 64 = |2 (b – c) k| = 2 (b – c) [3 b > c]
⇒ b – c = 32. ...(iv)
Solving equations (i), (ii) and (iv), we obtain
a = 6, b = 24, c = – 8.
Example 10. If the directional derivative of φ = ax2y + by2z + cz2x, at the point (1, 1, 1) has
x −1 y−3 z
maximum magnitude 15 in the direction parallel to the line = = , find the values
2 −2 1
of a, b and c. (U.P.T.U., 2001)
Sol. Given φ = ax2y + by2z + cz2x
FG ∂φ IJ FG ∂φ IJ FG ∂φ IJ
∴ ∇φ = i H ∂x K + j
H ∂y K + k
H ∂z K
= i(2axy + cz2) + j (ax2 + 2byz) + k (by2 + 2czx)
∇φ at the point (1, 1, 1) = i (2a + c) + j (a + 2b) + k (b + 2c).
We know that the maximum value of the directional derivative is in the direction of ∇ f
i.e., |∇φ| = 15 ⇒ (2a + c)2 + (2b + a)2 + (2c + b)2 = (15)2
But, the directional derivative is given to be maximum parallel to the line.
x −1 y−3 z
= =
2 −2 1
2a + c 2b + a 2c + b
⇒ = =
2 −2 1
⇒ 2a + c = – 2b – a ⇒ 3a + 2b + c = 0 (i)
and 2b + a = – 2(2c + b)
⇒ 2b + a = – 4c – 2b ⇒ a + 4b + 4c = 0 (ii)
Solving (i) and (ii), we get
a b c
= = = k (say)
4 −11 10
⇒ a = 4k, b = – 11k, and c = 10k.
Now, (2a + c) + (2b + a)2 + (2c + b)2 = (15)2
2

⇒ (8k + 10k)2 + (– 22k + 4k)2 + (20k – 11k)2 = (15)2

5
⇒ k = ±
9
20 55 50
⇒ a = ± ,b= ± and c = ± ·
9 9 9

z af
Example 11. Prove that ∇ f u du = f(u) ∇u.

Sol. Let z af
f u du = F(u), a function of u so that
∂F
∂u
= f(u)

FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ F
Then z af
∇ f u du =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
16 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

∂F ∂F ∂F
= i + j ∂y + k
∂x ∂z
∂F ∂u ∂F ∂u ∂F ∂u
= i + j + k
∂u ∂x ∂u ∂y ∂u ∂z

FG
∂F i ∂u + j ∂u + k ∂u IJ
=
∂u ∂x H ∂y ∂z K
= f (u) ∇u. Hence proved.
Example 12. Find the angle between the surfaces x2 + y2 + z2 = 9 and z = x2 + y2 – 3 at the
point (2, – 1, 2) (U.P.T.U., 2002)
Sol. Let φ1 = x + y + z – 9
2 2 2

φ2 = x2 + y2 – z – 3
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ
∴ ∇φ1 =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K (x2 + y2 + z2 – 9) = 2xi + 2yj + 2zk

∇φ1 at the point (2, – 1, 2) = 4i – 2j + 4k (i)

H FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ (x
∇φ 2 = H ∂x ∂y ∂z K 2
+ y2 – z – 3) = 2xi + 2yj – k

∇φ2 at the point (2, – 1, 2) = 4i – 2j – k (ii)

Let θ be the angle between normals (i) and (ii)
(4i – 2j + 4k) · (4i – 2j – k) = 16 + 4 + 16 16 + 4 + 1 cos θ
16 + 4 – 4 = 6 21 cos θ ⇒ 16 = 6 21 cos θ
8 8
⇒ cos θ = ⇒ θ = cos–1 ·
3 21 3 21

Example 13. If u = x + y + z, v = x2 + y2 + z2, w = yz + zx + xy, prove that grad u, grad v

and grad w are coplanar vectors. (U.P.T.U., 2002)
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ (x + y + z) = i + j + k
Sol. grad u =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ (x + y + z ) = 2x i + 2y j + 2z k
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
2 2 2
grad v =

FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ (yz + zx + xy)
grad w =
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
= i ( z + y) + j ( z + x) + k ( y + x)
Now,
1 1 1
grad u (grad v × grad w) = 2 x 2 y 2 z
z+y z+x y+x
VECTOR CALCULUS 17

1 1 1
= 2 x y z
z+y z+x y+x
1 1 1
= 2 x+z+ y y+z+x z + y + x |Applying R2 → R2 + R3
z+ y z+x y+x

1 1 1
= 2 (x + y + z)
1 1 1 =0
y+z z+x x+y
Hence, grad u, grad v and grad w are coplanar vectors.
5 2
Example 14. Find the directional derivative of φ = 5x2y – 5y2z + z x at the point
2
x −1 y − 3 z
P(1, 1, 1) in the direction of the line = = · (U.P.T.U., 2003)
2 −2 1
LM 5 2 OP
N Q
∇φ = 10 xy + z i + ( 5x − 10 yz) j + ( −5y 2 + 5zx)k
2
Sol.
2
25
∇ φ at P(1, 1, 1) = i − 5j
2
x −1 y−3 z
Direction Ratio of the line = = are 2, – 2, 1
2 −2 1
2 −2 1
,
a f a f
Direction cosines of the line are ,
2 2
(2) 2 + ( −2)2 + (1) 2 2 2 + −2 + 1 2 2 + −2 + 1
2 −2 1
i.e., , ,
3 3 3
Directional derivative in the direction of the line
F 25 i − 5 jI ⋅ F 2 i − 2 j + 1 kI
= H 2 K H3 3 3 K
25 10
= +
3 3
35
= ·
3
RS f (r)r UV = 1 d (r f ).
T r W r dr
2
Example 15. Prove that ∇· 2

∇⋅S
R f (r)r UV = R|S exi + yj + zkj U|V
Sol.
T r W ∇ ⋅ |T f (r) r |W
∂ R f ( r )x U ∂ R f ( r ) y U ∂ R f ( r ) z U
= S V+ S V+ S V
∂x T r W ∂y T r W ∂z T r W
∂ R f (r )x U d R f (r) U ∂r f (r )
Now, S
∂x T r W
V = x S
dr T r W ∂x
V + r
18 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

RS1 df − f (r) UV x + f (r) ∂r x

=
= x
T r dr r W r r 2 as
∂x r
x 2 df (r ) x 2 f (r )
= 2
− 3 f (r) +
r dr r r
RS UV
∂ f (r ) y y 2 df (r ) y 2 f (r )
Similarly,
∂y rT W =
r 2 dr
− 3 f (r ) +
r r
∂ R f (r )z U
and S V
∂z T r W
=
z 2 df (r) z 2
r 2 dr
− 3 f (r ) +
r
f ( r)
r
Now using these results, we get
LM f (r)r OP df ( r ) 2
∇·
N r Q =
dr
+ f (r )
r
1 d 2
= (r f )⋅ Hence proved.
r 2 dr
r
Example 16. Find f(r) such that ∇ f = and f(1) = 0.
r5
Sol. It is given that
∂f ∂f ∂f r xi + yj + zk
i+ j+ k = ∇ f =
∂x ∂y ∂z 5 = r5
r
∂f x ∂f y ∂f z
So, = 5, = 5 and = 5
∂x r ∂y r ∂z r
∂f ∂f ∂f x y z
We know that df = ∂x dx + ∂y dy + ∂z dz = 5 dx + 5 dy + 5 dz
r r r
xdx + ydy + zdz rdr
df = = = r–4dr
r 5
r5
−3
r
Integrating f(r) = +c
−3
1
Since 0 = f(1) = − +c
3
1
So, c =
3
1 1 1
Thus, f(r) = – ·
3 3 r3

EXERCISE 4.2

1. Find grad f where f = 2xz4 – x2y at (2, –2, –1). Ans. 10i − 4 j − 16 k

2. Find ∇ f when f = (x2 + y2 + z2) e − x2 + y2 + z2 · a f H

Ans. 2 − r e − r r
VECTOR CALCULUS 19

3. Find the unit normal to the surface x2y + 2xz = 4 at the point (2, –2, 3).
1 LMAns. b gOPQ
3 N
i − 2 j − 2k ±

4. Find the directional derivative of f = x2yz + 4xz 2 at (1, –2, –1) in the direction
37 OP LM
2i – j – 2k. Ans.
3 Q N
5. Find the angle between the surfaces x2 + y2 + z2 = 9 and z = x2 + y2 – 3 at the point
LMAns. θ = cos FG 8 21 IJ OP
H 63 K PQ
−1
(2, –1, 2) .
MN
6. Find the directional derivative of f = xy + yz + zx in the direction of vector i + 2j + 2k at
LMAns. 10 OP
the point (1, 2, 0).
N 3Q

7. If ∇f = 2xyz3i + x2z3j + 3x2yz2k, find f (x, y, z) if f (1, – 2, 2) = 4. Ans. f = x 2 yz 3 + 20

8. Find f given ∇f = 2xi + 4yj + 8zk. Ans. f = x 2 + 2 y 2 + 4z 2

9. Find the directional derivative of φ = (x2 + y2 + z2)–1/2 at the point P(3, 1, 2) in the direction
LMAns. −
9 OP
of the vector, yzi + xzj + xyk.
N 49 14 Q
2
10. Prove that ∇2f(r) = f ′′(r) + f ′ ( r) ·
r
FG x IJ
11. Show that ∇2 Hr K
3 = 0, where r is the magnitude of position vector r = xi + yj + zk.
[U.P.T.U. (C.O.), 2002]
12. Find the direction in which the directional derivative of f(x, y) = (x2 – y2)/xy at
LMAns. 1+i OP
(1, 1) is zero.
N 2 Q
1
13. Find the directional derivative of in the direction of r , where r = xi + yj + zk.
r
LM 1OP
N Q
Ans. − 2 (U.P.T.U., 2003)
r
14. Show that ∇r–3 = – 3r–5 r .

r
15. If φ = log | r |, show that ∇φ = · [U.P.T.U., 2008]
r2

4.10 DIVERGENCE OF A VECTOR POINT FUNCTION

If f (x, y, z) is any given continuously differentiable vector point function then the divergence of

f scalar function defined as (U.P.T.U., 2006)

20 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ⋅ f = i ⋅ ∂ f + j ⋅ ∂ f + k ⋅ ∂ f = div f
∇⋅ f = H ∂x ∂y ∂z K ∂x ∂y ∂z .

4.11 PHYSICAL INTERPRETATION OF DIVERGENCE

Let v = vxi + vy j + vz k be the velocity of the fluid at P(x, y, z).

Here we consider the case of fluid flow along a rectangular parallelopiped of dimensions
δx, δy, δz
Mass in = v·x δyδz (along x-axis)
Z
Mass out = vx(x + δx) δyδz
FG v
∂vx IJ S
=
H ∂x
x +
δx δyδz
K @y
D
v x (x + @x)
|By Taylor's theorem Vx R C
Net amount of mass along x-axis A
@z P
FG ∂v x IJ
= vx δyδz – vx + H ∂x K
δx δyδz Q @x B

∂v x O
= – δxδyδz X
∂x
|Minus sign shows decrease.
Similar net amount of mass along y-axis Y
∂v y Fig. 5.4
= – δxδyδz
∂y
∂v z
and net amount of mass along z-axis = − δxδyδz
∂z
F ∂v + ∂v + ∂v I δxδyδz
∴ Total amount of fluid across parallelopiped per unit time = − GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
x y z

Negative sign shows decrease of amount

F ∂v + ∂v + ∂v I δxδyδz
⇒ Decrease of amount of fluid per unit time = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
x y z

Hence the rate of loss of fluid per unit volume

F ∂v + ∂v + ∂v I
= GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
x y z

= ∇ ⋅ v = div v.
Therefore, div v represents the rate of loss of fluid per unit volume.
VECTOR CALCULUS 21

Solenoidal: For compressible fluid there is no gain no loss in the volume element
∴ div v = 0
then v is called Solenoidal vector function.

4.12 CURL OF A VECTOR

If f is any given continuously differentiable vector point function then the curl of f (vector
function) is defined as
∂f ∂f ∂f
Curl f = ∇ × f = i × + j× +k× (U.P.T.U., 2006)
∂x ∂y ∂z

Let f = fx i + fy j + fz k, then
i j k
∇ × f = ∂ / ∂x ∂ / ∂y ∂ / ∂z ·
fx fy fz

4.13 PHYSICAL MEANING OF CURL

Here we consider the relation v = w × r , w is the angular velocity r is position vector of a point
on the rotating body (U.P.T.U., 2006)

curl v = ∇ × v
= ∇ × (w × r )
LMwHH = w i + w j + w kOP
1 2 3

N r = xi + yj + zk Q
= ∇ × [(w1 i + w 2 j + w 3 k ) × (xi + yj + zk )]

i j k
= ∇ × w1 w2 w3
x y z
= ∇ × [( w2 z − w 3 y)i − (w1 z − w 3 x) j + ( w1 y − w2 x)k ]
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ × [(w z − w y)i − (w z − w x) j + (w y − w x)k]
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K 2 3 1 3 1 2

i j k
∂ ∂ ∂
=
∂x ∂y ∂z
w2 z − w 3 y w 3 x − w1 z w 1 y − w 2 x
= (w1 + w1) i – (–w2 – w2) j + (w3 + w3) k
= 2 (w1i + w2j + w3k) = 2w

Curl v = 2w which shows that curl of a vector field is connected with rotational properties
of the vector field and justifies the name rotation used for curl.
22 A TEXTBOOK OF ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—I

Irrotational vector: If curl f = 0, then the vector f is said to be irrotational. Vice-versa, if

f is irrotational then, curl f = 0.

4.14 VECTOR IDENTITIES

Identity 1: grad uv = u grad v + v grad u

Proof: grad (uv) = ∇ (uv)
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ (uv)
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∂ ∂ ∂
= i (uv) + j (uv) + k (uv)
∂x ∂y ∂z
FG
∂v ∂u IJ FG
∂v ∂u ∂vIJ FG∂u IJ
H K H K H
= i u ∂x + v ∂x + j u ∂y + v ∂y + k u ∂z + v ∂z K
F ∂v + j ∂v + k ∂v IJ + vFG i ∂u + j ∂u + k ∂u IJ
uG i
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
or grad uv = u grad v + v grad u .
H H
Identity 2: grad ( a · b ) = a × curl b + b × curl a +
H
b aH ⋅ ∇g b + (b ⋅ ∇) aH
∂ H H
H
∂a H H ∂b F H
IJ
Proof: grad ( a · b ) = Σi
∂x
a ⋅ b = Σi
∂x
e j GH
⋅b + a ⋅
∂x K
IJ FG IJ
H
H ∂a H
FGH ∂b
= Σi b ⋅
∂x
+ Σi a ⋅
H ∂x K H
.
K ...(i)

H ∂b
H
FG H ∂b
H
IJ FG
H ∂
H
IJ
H K
b
Now, a × i×
∂x
= a⋅
∂x H
i − ( a ⋅ i)
dx K
H ∂b FG
H
IJ
H ∂b
H
HFG IJ b ∂b
H
g
⇒ a⋅
∂xH i = a
K × i ×
∂x
+ a
H K
⋅ i
∂x
H ∂b
H
FG IJH ∂b
H
FG IJ
H
H
∂b
b g
⇒ Σ a⋅
∂x H K
i = ∑a × i×
∂x
+ ∑ a ⋅i
H K ∂x
H ∂b
H
FG H IJ ∂b
H
FG IJ
H ∂ FG IJ bH
⇒ Σ a⋅
∂x H K
i = a × ∑ i×
∂x
+ ∑ a ⋅i
H K ∂x H K
H ∂b
H
FG H IJ H H H
b g
⇒ Σ a⋅
∂x H K
i = a × curl b + a ⋅ ∇ b · ...(ii)
L L
Interchanging a and a , we get
H ∂aHFG IJ
H H H H
e j
Σ b⋅
∂xH K
i = b × curl a + b ⋅ ∇ a ...(iii)

From equations (i), (ii) and (iii), we get

H H H H H H H H H H
grad ( a · b ) = a × curl b + b × curl a + ( a · ∇) b + ( b · ∇) a .
VECTOR CALCULUS 23

Identity 3: div (u a ) = u div a + a · grad u (U.P.T.U., 2004)

Proof: div (u a ) = ∇·(u a )
FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ⋅(uaH)
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∂ H ∂ H ∂ H
= i⋅ (ua ) + j ⋅ (ua ) + k ⋅ (ua )
∂x ∂y ∂z
RS
∂u H ∂a
H
UV RS
∂u H
H
∂a ∂u H UV RS
H
∂a UV
= i ⋅
T
∂x
a + u
∂x
+ j ⋅
∂y
a
W T
+ u
∂y
+ k ⋅
∂z
a + u
∂zW T W
RS H
∂a
= u i⋅ + j⋅ + k⋅
∂a
H H
∂a H
+a⋅ i
∂u
+j
UV RS
∂u
+k
∂u UV
T∂x ∂y ∂z ∂x ∂yW T ∂z W
or div (u a ) = u div a + a · grad u .

Identity 4: div ( a × b ) = b · curl b – a · curl b [U.P.T.U. (C.O.), 2003]

Proof: div ( a × b ) = ∇ · ( a × b )
∂ H H
= Σi ⋅ ( a × b )
∂x
H
FG
∂a H H ∂b
H
IJ
= Σi ⋅
∂x H
×b+a×
∂x K
∂a
H H
FG IJ
H ∂b
H
FG IJ
= Σi ⋅
∂x H
× b + Σi ⋅ a ×
K
∂x H K
FG ∂a
H H
IJ
H
∂b H FG IJ
= Σ i×
H ∂x K
⋅b − Σ i ×
∂x H
⋅a
K
H H H
= (curl a ) · b – (curl b) · a
H H H H
or div ( a × b ) = b · curl a – a · curl b .
H H H
Identity 5: curl (u a ) = u curl a + (grad u) × a [U.P.T.U. (C.O.), 2003]
H H
Proof: curl (u a ) = ∇ × (u a )
∂ H
= Σi × (ua )
∂x
∂u H FG H
∂a IJ
= Σi ×
∂x
a+u
H ∂x K
FG IJ
∂u H ∂a
H
FG IJ
= Σ i
H K
∂x
× a + uΣ i ×
∂x H K
H H
= (grad u) × a + u curl a
H H H
or curl (u a ) = u curl a + (grad u) × a .
24 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

H H H H H H H H H H
Identity 6: curl( a × b ) = a div b – b div a + ( b ·∇) a – ( a · ∇) b
H H H H
Proof: curl ( a × b ) = ∇ × ( a × b )
∂ H H
= Σi × ( a × b )
∂x
H
FG
∂a H H ∂b
H
IJ
= Σi ×
∂x H
×b+a×
∂x K
∂a
H H
FG H ∂b
H
IJ FG IJ
= Σi ×
∂x H
× b + Σi × a ×
∂x K H K
FG IJ
= Σ ( i. b ) ∂ a − Σ i ⋅ ∂ a b + Σ i ⋅ ∂ b a − Σ ( i . a ) ∂ b
FG IJ
∂x ∂x H
∂x K ∂x H K
H ∂ H
∂a H
H
FG
∂b H IJ
H H ∂ H FG IJ FG IJ
= Σ (i . b ) a − Σ i ⋅
H
∂x ∂x
b + Σ i⋅
∂xH a − Σ a⋅i
K ∂x
b
H K H K
H H H H H H H
= ( b · ∇) a – (div a ) b + (div b ) a – ( a .∇) b
H H H H H H H H
= ( b · ∇) a – ( a · ∇) b + a div b – b div a .
H H H H H H H H H H
or curl ( a × b ) = a div b – b div a + ( b · ∇) a – ( a · ∇) b .

∂2 f ∂2 f ∂2 f
Identity 7: div grad f = ∇ · (∇f) = + + = ∇2 f
∂x 2
∂y 2
∂z 2

Proof: div grad f = ∇ · (∇f)

FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ⋅ FG i ∂f + j ∂f + k ∂f IJ
=
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
∂ F ∂f I ∂ F ∂f I ∂ F ∂f I
= G J+ G J+ G J
∂x H ∂x K ∂y H ∂y K ∂z H ∂z K
∂2 f ∂2 f ∂2 f
= + +
∂x 2 ∂y 2 ∂z 2
or div grad f = ∇2 f .
Identity 8: curl grad f = 0
Proof: curl grad f = ∇ × (∇f)
∂ ∂f FG
∂f ∂f IJ
= Σi
∂x
× i
∂x
+j
∂yH+k
∂z K
F ∂2 f ∂2 f ∂2 f I
= Σi × i GH ∂x 2
+j
∂x∂y
+k
∂x∂z JK
F ∂2 f ∂2 f I
= Σ k GH ∂ x∂ y
−j
∂x∂z JK
Fk ∂ f − j ∂ f I + Fi ∂ f − k ∂ f I + F j ∂ f − i ∂ f I
2 2 2 2 2 2
= GH ∂x∂y ∂x∂z JK GH ∂y∂z ∂y∂x JK GH ∂z∂x ∂z∂y JK
or curl grad f = 0 .
VECTOR CALCULUS 25

H
Identity 9: div curl f = 0
H H
Proof: div curl f = ∇ · (∇ × f )
∂
H
∂f R|SH
∂f
H
∂f U|V
= Σi ⋅
∂x
i×
∂x
+ j×
|T
∂y
+k×
∂z |W
∂2 f
H
R|S ∂2 f
H
∂2 f
H
U|V
= Σi ⋅ i × 2 + j ×
∂x |T ∂x∂y
+k×
∂x∂z |W
R|S
H
∂2 f
H
∂2 f
H
∂2 f U|V
∂x |T
= Σ ( i × i) ⋅ 2 + ( i × j ) ⋅
∂x∂y
+ (i × k ) ⋅
∂x∂z |W
∂2 fR|S
H
∂2 f
H
U|V
= Σ k⋅
∂x∂y |T
− j⋅
∂x∂z |W
R|S H
∂2 f ∂2 f
H H
∂2 f ∂2 f U|V
H
R|S U|V R|S j ⋅ ∂ Hf − i ⋅ ∂ Hf U|V
2 2
= k⋅
|T
∂x∂y
− j⋅
∂ x∂ z
+ i⋅
∂y∂z
−k⋅
∂y∂x |W+
|T |W |T ∂z∂x ∂z∂y |W
H
div curl f = 0 .
H H H
H H ∂ 2 f ∂ 2 f ∂2 f
Identity 10: grad div f = curl curl f + 2 + 2 + 2
∂x ∂y ∂z
H H
Proof: Curl curl f = ∇ × (∇ × f )

∂
H
∂f |RSH
∂f
H
∂f |UV
= Σi
∂x
× i×
∂x
+ j×
|T
∂y
+k×
∂z |W
∂2 f
H
|RS ∂2 f
H H
∂2 f |UV
= Σi × i × 2 + j ×
∂x |T ∂x∂y
+k×
∂x∂z |W
LMR|F
H H
IJ H H
U|V R|F I U|
MNS|TGH S|GH V|
∂2 f ∂2 f ∂2 f ∂2 f
= Σ i ⋅ 2 i − (i ⋅ i ) ⋅ 2 + i ⋅
∂x ∂x K
∂x∂y
j − ( i ⋅ j)
∂x∂y |W T JK W
RF ∂ f I ∂ f UO
H H
P
TH ∂x∂z JK k − (i ⋅ k) ∂x∂z VWPQ
+ SG i ⋅
2 2

L F
= Σ MG i ⋅
∂ fI F ∂ f I
H H
F ∂ f I O
H H

MNH ∂x JK i + GH i ⋅ ∂x∂y JK j + GH i ⋅ ∂x∂z JK kPPQ − Σ ∂x

2 2
∂ f 2 2

2 2

H
H H H
L
= Σ MG i ⋅
F ∂ fI
H
F ∂ f I
H
F ∂ f I O
H
∂ f ∂ f ∂ f
J i + i⋅ j + Gi ⋅ J kP ·
2 2 2 2 2 2

NMH H∂x K H GH ∂xH∂y JK H ∂x∂z K PQ

⇒ Curl curl f + + + ...(i)
∂x 2
∂y ∂z
2 2 2

H ∂ | RSi ⋅ ∂f + j ⋅ ∂f + k ⋅ ∂f |UV
Again, grad div f = Σi
∂x T | ∂x ∂y ∂z W|
R ∂ f U
H H H
| |
|T ∂x + j ⋅ ∂x∂y + k ⋅ ∂x∂z V|W
= Σi Si ⋅
∂ f ∂ f 2 2 2

2
26 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

L F
Σ MG i ⋅
∂ f I  F  ∂ f I  F  ∂ f I O
H H H

MNH ∂x JK i + GH j ⋅ ∂x∂y JK i + GH k ⋅ ∂x∂z JK i PPQ

2 2 2
= 
2

L F
Σ MG i ⋅
∂ f I  F  ∂ f I  F  ∂ f I O
H H H

MNH ∂x JK i + GH i ⋅ ∂z∂x JK j + GH i ⋅ ∂y∂z JK kPPQ

2 2 2
=  ...(ii)
2

From eqns. (i) and (ii), we prove

H H H
grad div f = curl curl f + ∇2 f
H H H
Example 1. If f = xy2 i + 2x2yz j – 3yz2 k then find div f and curl f at the point (1, – 1, 1).
H
Sol. We have f = xy2 i +2x2yz j – 3yz2 k
H ∂ ∂ ∂
div f = (xy 2 ) + ( 2x 2 yz) + (–3yz 2 )
∂x ∂y ∂z
= y2 + 2x2z – 6yz
= (– 1)2 + 2 (1)2 (1) – 6 (– 1)(1) at (1, – 1, 1)
= 1 + 2 + 6 = 9.
H
Again, curl f = curl [xy2 i + 2x2yz j – 3yz2 k]
i j k
∂ ∂ ∂
= ∂x ∂y ∂z
xy 2 2 x 2 yz −3 yz 2
RS ∂ (−3yz ) − ∂ (2x yz)UV + j RS ∂ (xy ) − ∂ (−3yz )UV
W T ∂z W
2 2 2 2

T ∂y
= i
∂z ∂x
R∂
+ k S ( 2 x yz ) −
∂2 U
( xy )V
2

T ∂ x ∂ y W
= i [–3z2 – 2x2y] + j [0 – 0] + k [4xyz – 2xy]
= (–3z2 – 2x2y)i + (4xyz – 2xy) k
= {–3 (1)2 – 2(1)2(–1)} i + {4(1)(–1)(1) – 2(1)(–1)} k at (1, –1, 1)
= – i – 2k.
Example 2. Prove that
H H
(i) div r = 3. (ii) curl r = 0.
H H
Sol. (i) div r = ∇ · r
FG
∂ ∂ ∂ IJ
= i
∂xH +j
∂y
+k
∂z K
⋅ ( xi + yj + zk )

∂ ∂ ∂
= ( x ) + ( y ) + ( z)
∂x ∂y ∂z
= 1 + 1 + 1 = 3.
H H
(ii) curl r = ∇ × r
FG
∂ ∂ ∂ IJ
H K
= i ∂x + j ∂y + k ∂z × ( xi + yj + zk )

i j k
∂ ∂ ∂
=
∂x ∂y ∂z
x y z
VECTOR CALCULUS 27

LM ∂ (z) − ∂ ( y)OP + j LM ∂ (x) − ∂ (z)OP + k LM ∂ (y) − ∂ (x)OP

= i
N ∂y ∂z Q N ∂z ∂x Q N ∂x ∂y Q
= i (0) + j (0) + k (0)
= 0 + 0 + 0 = 0.
Example 3. Find the divergence and curl of the vector
(x2 – y2) i + 2xy j + (y2 – xy) k.
H
Sol. Let f = (x2 – y2) i + 2xy j + (y2 – xy) k.
H ∂ 2 ∂ ∂
Then div f = ( x − y 2 ) + (2 xy) + ( y 2 − xy)
∂x ∂y ∂z
= 2x + 2x + 0 = 4x
i j k
H ∂ ∂ ∂
and curl f = ∂x ∂y ∂z
x2 − y2 2xy y 2 − xy

LM ∂ ( y ∂ OP LM
∂ 2 ∂ 2 OP
Q N Q
2
− xy ) − ( 2 xy ) + j (x − y 2 ) − ( y − xy )
N ∂y
= i
∂z ∂z ∂x

LM ∂ (2xy) − ∂ (x 2
− y2 )
OP
N ∂x Q
+ k
∂y
= i [2y – x) – 0] + j [0 – (–y)] + k [(2y) – (– 2y)]
= (2y – x) i + y j + 4y k. Ans.
H H
Example 4. If f (x, y, z) = xz3 i – 2x2yz j + 2yz4 k find divergence and curl of f (x, y, z)
(U.P.T.U., 2006)
H FG i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ IJ ⋅ cxz i − 2x yz j + 2yz k h
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K
3 2 4
Sol. div f =

∂ ∂ ∂
= ( xz 3 ) − (2x 2 yz) + (2 yz 4 )
∂x ∂y ∂z
= z3 – 2x2z + 8yz3
i j k
H ∂ ∂ ∂
curl f =
∂x ∂y ∂z
xz 3 −2 x 2 yz 2 yz 4

RS ∂ (2yz ) + ∂ (2x yz)UV − j RS ∂ (2yz ) − ∂ (xz )UV

W T ∂x W
4 2 4 3
= i
T ∂y ∂z ∂z

R∂ ∂ U
+ k S ( −2x yz) − ( xz )V
2 3

T ∂ x ∂ y W
= i (2z4 + 2x2y) – j (0 – 3z2x) + k (– 4xyz – 0)
= 2 (x2y + z4) i + 3z2xj – 4xyz·k.
28 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

H
Example 5. Find the directional derivative of ∇. u at the point (4, 4, 2) in the direction of
H
the corresponding outer normal of the sphere x2 + y2 + z2 = 36 where u = x4 i + y4 j + z4 k.
H
Sol. ∇. u = ∇. (x4i + y4j + z4k) = 4(x3 + y3 + z3) = f (say)
∴ (∇f)(4, 4, 2) = 12 (x2i + y2j + z2k)(4, 4, 2) = 48(4i + 4j + k)
Normal to the sphere g ≡ x2 + y2 + z2 = 36 is
(∇g)(4, 4, 2) = 2 (xi + yj + zk)(4, 4, 2) = 4(2i + 2j + k)

a = unit normal =
∇g
=
b
4 2i + 2 j + k g
∇g 64 + 64 + 16
2i + 2 j + k
=
3
The required directional derivative is
2i + 2 j + k
∇f. a = 48 (4i + 4j + k).
3
= 16(8 + 8 + 1) = 272.

Example 6. A fluid motion is given by v = (y + z)i + (z + x)j + (x + y)k show that the motion
is irrotational and hence find the scalar potential. (U.P.T.U., 2003)
Sol. Curl v = ∆× v
F i ∂ + y ∂ + k ∂ I × by + zgi + az + xf j + bx + ygk
= GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
i j k
∂ ∂ ∂
= = i (1 – 1) – j (1 – 1) + k (1 – 1) = 0
∂x ∂y ∂z
y+z z+x x+ y

Hence v is irrotational.
∂φ ∂φ ∂φ
Now dφ = dx + dy + dz
∂x ∂y ∂z
F i ∂φ + j ∂φ + k ∂φ I ⋅ bidx + jdy + kdzg
= GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
F i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I φ ⋅ dr = ∇φ⋅ dr = v ⋅ dr
= GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK v = ∇φ

= [(y + z) i + (z + x) j + (x + y) k]. (idx + jdy + kdz)

= (y + z) dx + (z + x) dy + (x + y) dz
= ydx + zdx + zdy + xdy + xdz + ydz
On integrating φ = zb g zb
ydx + xdy + zdy + ydz + g z bzdx + xdzg
= zb g zb g za
d xy + d yz + d zx
φ = xy + yz + zx + c
f
Thus, velocity potential = xy + yz + zx + c.
VECTOR CALCULUS 29

H
H H H H H
b H
gH
b g b g
Example 7. Prove that a × ∇ × r = ∇ a ⋅ r − a ⋅ ∇ r where a is a constant vector and
r = xi + yj + zk. (U.P.T.U., 2007)
Sol. Let H
a = a1i + a2j + a3k
H
r = r1i + r2j + r3k
i j k
F∂r3 ∂r2 I FG
∂r3 ∂r1 IJ j + FG ∂r − ∂r IJ k
∴ ∇× r =
∂
∂x
∂
∂y
∂
∂z
GH JK H
= i ∂y − ∂z – ∂x − ∂z K H ∂x ∂y K
2 1

r1 r2 r3

i j k
e
Now a × ∇ × r =j a1 a2 a3
∂r3 ∂r2 ∂r1 ∂r3 ∂r2 ∂r1
− − −
∂y ∂x ∂z ∂x ∂x ∂y

|RSFG a ∂r2 ∂r ∂r I FG
JK H ∂r IJ |UVi
=
|TH 2
∂x
− a 2 1 – a3 1 − a 3 3
∂y ∂z ∂x K |W
|RF ∂r ∂r I F ∂r ∂r I |U
– SG a ∂x − a ∂y J − G a ∂y − a ∂z J V j
|TH K H K |W
2 1 3 2
1 1 3 3

|RF ∂r ∂r I F ∂r ∂r I |U
+ SGH − a ∂x + a ∂z JK − G a ∂y − a ∂z J Vk
|T H K |W
3 1 3 2
1 1 2 2

F ∂ ∂ + k ∂ I ba r + a r + a r g – LMa ∂ + a ∂ + a ∂ OP br i + r j + r kg
H ∂x ∂y ∂z JK
= Gi + j 1 1
N ∂x ∂y ∂z Q
2 2 3 3 1 2 3 1 2 3

= ∇ nb a j + a j + a k g ⋅ br j + r j + r k gs
1 2 3 1 2 3

R| F ∂ ∂ ∂ I U|
– Sb a i + a j + a k g ⋅ G i + j + k J Vbr i + r j + r k g
T| 1
H ∂x ∂y ∂z K W|
2 3 1 2 3

= ∇e a ⋅ rj − e a ⋅ ∇jr · Hence proved.

Example 8. Find the directional derivative of Ö.(Öf) at the point (1, –2, 1) in the direction of
the normal to the surface xy2z = 3x + z2 where f = 2x3y2z4. (U.P.T.U., 2008)
F i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I (2x y z ) = (6x y z )i + (4x yz )j + 8x y z )k
Sol. ∇f = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK 3 2 4 2 2 4 3 4 3 2 3

F i ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I . {(6x y z )i + (4x yz )j + (8x y z )k}

∇.(∇f) = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK 2 2 4 3 4 3 2 3

or ∇.(∇f) = 12x y2z4 + 4x3 z4 + 24x3 y2z2 = F(x, y, z) (say)

Fi ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I
Now ∇F = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK (12x y2z4 + 4x3 z4 + 24x3 y2z2)

= (12y2 z4 + 12x2 z4 + 72x2 y2z2)i + (24xyz4 + 48x3 yz2) j

+ (48x y2z3 + 16x3z3 + 48x3y2z)k
30 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

∴ (∇F)(1, –2, 1) = 348i – 144j + 400k

Let g(x, y, z) = xy2z – 3x – z2 = 0
Fi ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I
∇g = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK (xy2z – 3x – z2)

= (y2z – 3) i + (2xyz) j + (xy2 – 2z) k

(∇g)(1, –2, 1) = i – 4j + 2k
∇g i − 4 j + 2k i − 4 j + 2k
a = unit normal = = =
∇g 1 + 16 + 4 21
Hence, the required directional derivative is

∇F . a = (348i – 144j + 400k) .

b i − 4 j + 2k g
21
348 + 576 + 800 1724
= = .
21 21
Example 9. Determine the values of a and b so that the surface ax2 – byz = (a + 2)x will be
orthogonal to the surface 4x2y + z3 = 4 at the point (1, –1, 2).
Sol. Let f ≡ ax2 – byz – (a + 2)x = 0 ...(i)
g ≡ 4x y + z – 4 = 0
2 3
...(ii)
Fi ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I
grad f = ∇f = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK {ax2 – byz – (a + 2)x}

= (2ax – a – 2)i + (–bz)j + (–by)k

(∇f)(1, –1, 2) = (a – 2)i – 2bj + bk ...(iii)
Fi ∂ + j ∂ + k ∂ I
grad g = ∇g = GH ∂x ∂y ∂z JK (4x2y + z3 – 4)

= (8xy)i + (4x2)j + (3z2)k

(∇g)(1, –1, 2) = – 8i + 4j + 12k ...(iv)
Since the surfaces are orthogonal so

e∇ f j . e∇gj = 0
⇒ [(a – 2)i – 2bj + bk] . [– 8i + 4j + 12k] = 0
– 8(a – 2) – 8b + 12b = 0 ⇒ – 2a + b + 4 = 0 ...(v)
But the point (1, –1, 2) lies on the surface (i), so
a + 2b – (a + 2) = 0 ⇒ 2b − 2 = 0 ⇒ b = 1
Putting the value of b in (v), we get
5
− 2a + 1 + 4 = 0 ⇒ a =
2
5
Hence, a = , b = 1.
2
VECTOR CALCULUS 31

Example 10. Prove that A = (x2 – yz)i + (y2 – zx)j + (z2 – xy)k is irrotational and find the
scalar potential f such that A = ∇f.

i j k
∂ ∂ ∂
Sol. ∇ × A = = (–x + x)i – (–y + y)j + (–z + z) = 0
∂x ∂y ∂z
x 2 − yz y 2 − zx z 2 − xy

Hence, A is irrotational.
∂f ∂f ∂f
Now A = ∇f = i +j +k = (x2 – yz)i + (y2 – zx)j + (z2 – xy)k
∂x ∂y ∂z
Comparing on both sides, we get
∂f ∂f ∂f
= (x2 – yz), = (y2 – zx) and = (z2 – xy)
∂x ∂y ∂z
∂f ∂f ∂f
∴ df = dx + dy + dz = (x2 – yz)dx + (y2 – zx)dy + (z2 – xy)dz
∂x ∂y ∂z
= (x2 dx + y2 dy + z2 dz) – (yzdx + zxdy + xydz)
1
or df = d(x3 + y3 + z3) – d(xyz)
3
On integrating, we get
1
f = (x3 + y3 + z3) – xyz + c.
3

EXERCISE 4.3

1. Find div A , when A = x2zi – 2y3z2j + xy2zk. Ans. 2xz – 6 y 2 z 2 + xy 2

xi + yj + zk
2. If V = , find the value of div V . (U.P.T.U., 2000)
x2 + y2 + z2
LMAns. 2 division ex j OPQ
N
2
+ y2 + z2

3. Find the directional derivative of the divergence of f (x, y, z) = xyi + xy2j + z2k at the point
LM
13 OP
(2, 1, 2) in the direction of the outer normal to the sphere, x2 + y2 + z2 = 9. Ans.
3N Q
H H 3
4. Show that the vector field f = r / r is irrotational as well as solenoidal. Find the scalar
LM 1
OP
potential.
MN
(U.P.T.U., 2001, 2005) Ans. –
x 2 + y2 + z2 PQ
32 ENGINEERING MATHEMATICS—II

FG k × grad 1 IJ
H rK
5. If r is the distance of a point (x, y, z) from the origin, prove that curl + grad

FG k. grad 1IJ
H rK
= 0, where k is the unit vector in the direction OZ. (U.P.T.U., 2000)

6. Prove that A = (6xy + z3)i + (3x2 – z)j + (3xz2 – y) k is irrotational. Find a scalar function
f (x, y, z) such that A = ∇f. Ans. f = 3 x 2 y + xz 3 – zy + c2

7. Find the curl of yzi + 3zxj + zk at (2, 3, 4). Ans. – 6i + 3 j + 8 k

8. If f = x2yz, g = xy – 3z2, calculate ∇.(∇f × ∇g). Ans. zero
9. Determine the constants a and b such that curl of (2xy + 3yz)i + (x2 + axz – 4z2)j + (3xy
+ 2byz) k = 0. Ans. a = 3, b = −4
10. Find the value of constant b such that
3 2 2
A = (bxy – z ) i + (b – 2)x j + (1 – b) xz k has its curl identically equal to zero.
Ans. b = 4

H FG 1 IJ = a ⋅ r ·
11. Prove that a . ∇
H rK r 3

12. Prove that ∇ e a ⋅ uj = e a ⋅ ∇ju + a × curl u a is a constant vector.

F xI
13. Prove that ∇ GH JK = 0.
2
3
r
2
14. Prove that ∇2f(r) = f ″(r) + f ′ (r).
r
15. If u = x2 + y2 + z2 and v = xi + yj + zk , show that div euvj = 5u
F a × rI = 3r a ⋅ re j
16. Prove the curl GH r JK
3 −
a
r3
+
r5
.

  
e j
17. Find the curl of v = exyz i + j + k at the point (1, 2, 3). b
Ans. e 6 i − 21 j + 3k g
18. Prove that ∇ × ∇f = 0 for any f (x, y, z).
19. Find curl of A = x 2 yi – 2 xzj + 2 yzk at the point (1, 0, 2). Ans. 4 j
H
20. Determine curl of xyz2i + yzx2j + zxy2 k at the point (1, 2, 3).

a f b g b g
Ans. xy 2z – x i + yz 2x − y j + zx 2 y − z k ;10i + 3k
LMAns. c OP
21. Find f(r) such that f(r) r is solenoidal.
N rQ 3

22. Find a, b, c when f = (x + 2y + az)i + (bx – 3y – z)j + (4x + cy + 2z)k is irrotational.

[Ans. a = 4, b = 2, c = –1]
23. Prove that (y2 – z2 + 3yz – 2x)i + (3xz + 2xy)i + (3xy – 2xz + 2z)k are both solenoidal and
irrotational. [U.P.T.U., 2008]