CHAPTER

1
Vector Analysis

1.1

INTRODUCTION

Any problem concerning an electrical network can be viewed from two angles:
(a) Circuit point of view.
(b) Field point of view.
It can be said that a proper understanding of concept of field theory provides a better
understanding of analysis of circuit problems. Vector analysis is a valuable mathematical tool
for engineers for solving certain type of problems where the conventional methods become
lengthy and cumbersome. The analysis with vectors even though little difficult to understand
in the beginning, but effectively gives the solution of field quantities both in magnitude and
direction. For this reason, a review of vector analysis is provided at the beginning of course.
There is a lot of difference between circuit theory and field theory. Electromagnetic field
theory deals directly with the field vectors viz. electric field (E) and magnetic field (H) while
circuit theory deals with voltage (V) and current (I) that are the integrated effects of electric
and magnetic fields. In general, electromagnetic field problems involve three space variables
as a result of which the solutions tend to become comparatively complex. The additional problem
that arises due to dealing with vector quantities in three dimension can be overcome by use of
vector analysis. The use of vector analysis in the study of electromagnetic field theory thus
saves time and provides economy of thought. In addition the vector form gives a clear
understanding of physical laws which is described by mathematics.

1.2

SCALAR AND VECTOR QUANTITIES

Quantities associated with electric and magnetic fields are either scalars (or) vectors possessing
characteristic properties. A quantity which possesses only magnitude but no direction is called
a scalar quantity. For example, physical quantities like mass, area, volume, temperature are
scalar quantities. On the other hand, quantities which possess both magnitude and direction
are called vector quantities. For examples, velocity, force, acceleration are vector quantities.
1

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

In order to distinguish a vector from a scalar, an arrow on the top is used to denote a vector. So

for example, A, B, C represent vector quantities and A, B, C represent scalar quantities.

1.3

FIELD

Although a scalar field has no direction, it does have a specific location. Mathematically a field
is a function which describes a physical quantity at all points in space. This field can be classified
as either scalar (or) vector.

1.3.1 Scalar Field

It implies the distribution of scalar quantity with a definite position in space. The temperature
of hot water in a container is an example of scalar field.

1.3.2 Vector Field

If the value of physical function at every point is vector quantity, the field is a vector field. For
example, the wind velocity of atmosphere, gravitational force and electric field intensity are
vector fields.

1.4

VECTOR OPERATIONS

1.4.1 Addition of Vectors

Consider two vectors P and Q as shown in Fig. 1.1(a). The vector R which is called as resultant

vector can be obtained by moving a point along P and then along Q or sum of vectors P and Q ,
we can written as

(1.1)

R= P+Q


Q

R

P


P


R

Q

(a)

(b)

Fig. 1.1

From nature of definition of vector addition, it is apparent that

Q+ P= P+Q

(1.2)

VECTOR ANALYSIS

If the vectors P and Q are situated as shown in Fig. 1.1 (b), then the resultant vector R is
obtained by completing the parallelogram formed by two vectors.

1.4.2 Subtraction of Vectors

To subtract two vectors the best method which is to be followed
is to change the direction of vector and then add. As shown in

Fig. 1.2, the direction of vector Q is changed which results in

R
(R = P Q)

magnitude of () Q and which on addition with P give the

resultant vector R whose value is given by R = P Q .

1.4.3 Multiplication of Vectors

Fig. 1.2

The multiplication of vectors has been classified into three

categories:
(a) When vector is multiplied by a scalar.

(b) When a vector is multiplied by another vector resulting in a scalar quantity. This is
called as Scalar (or) Dot product.
(c) When a vector is multiplied by another vector resulting in vector quantity. This is
called as Vector (or) Cross product.
These three classifications of multiplication can be discussed in detail as follows:
1.4.3.1 Multiplication of Vector by a Scalar
When a vector quantity is multiplied by a scalar quantity, the magnitude of vector changes,

but its direction remains unchanged. Thus it can be shown that if vector P is multiplied with a

scalar a it results in vector Q with same direction as of P .

Thus,

Q=a P

(1.3)

1.4.3.2 Scalar (or) Dot Product

The scalar (or) Dot product of two vectors is the product, of magnitude of vectors multiplied by
cosine of the smaller angle between them.

Let P and Q be two vectors and pq denote angle between them.

P Q = | P | | Q | cos pq
Obviously the result is a scalar quantity and also it can be written as

P.Q = Q. P

(1.4)
(1.5)

We can come to a decision from equation (1.4) that the vectors have same direction
when = 0 i.e., cos = 1 and the two vectors are opposite in direction when = 180 i.e., cos
= 1 and the two vectors are perpendicular to each other when = 90 i.e., cos 90 = 0.
1.4.3.3 Vector (or) Cross Product
It is the product of two vectors, where the magnitudes of vectors are multiplied by sine of the
smaller angle between them.

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

P Q = P Q sin

(1.6)

1.4.4 Division of Vectors by Scalar

It is the same as multiplication of vector by reciprocal of scalar. So vector P divided by scalar Q

results in vector P

1.5

1
. Here also the direction of vector does not change.
Q

UNIT VECTOR

It is a common practice to express each of component vectors as a product of scalar magnitude

and a unit vector. A unit vector is a vector of unit magnitude and having specified direction
and is denoted by U.

So the component vector P x can be written as

P x = Px Ux

(1.7)

The unit vector in the direction of vector P can be obtained by dividing P with its modulus

value | P |.

Up =

(1.8)
| P|
The concept of unit vector is useful in representing a vector in terms of component
vectors.

1.5.1 Applications of Unit Vectors

With the help of unit vectors the dot (or) scalar product and cross (or) vector product of two

vectors can be worked out by direct multiplication. Let the two vectors P and Q be given by

P = i Px + j Py + k Pz

(1.9)

Q = i Qx + j Qy + k Qz

(1.10)

Case (a): Dot (or) scalar product:

P Q = ( i Px + j Py + k Pz ) . ( i Qx + j Q y + k Qz )

= i . i Px Qx + i . j Px Qy + i . k Px Qz

+ j . i Py Qx + j . j Py Q y + j . k Py Qz

+ k . i Pz Qx + k . j Pz Qy + k . k Pz Qz

i i = j j = k k = 1, while other product unlike unit vectors will be zero.

but

P Q = Px Qx + Py Qy + Pz Qz

(1.11)

VECTOR ANALYSIS

Case (b): Cross (or) vector product:

P Q = ( i Px + j Py + k Pz ) ( i Qx + j Q y + k Qz )

= i i Px Qx + i j Px Q y + i k Px Qz

+ j i Py Qx + j j Py Qy + j k Py Qz
+ k i Pz Qx + k j Pz Qy + k k Pz Qz

Since i i = 0 and i j = k and i k = j . This becomes

i
P Q = Px
Qx

j
Py
Qy

k
Pz
Qz

(1.12)

Example 1.1: Vectors A = 3Ux + 5Uy + 6Uz and B = 6Ux + 4Uy + 2Uz are situated at point
P (x, y, z). Find (a) A + B (b) A B (c) angle between A and B (d) A B (e) unit normal to
plane containing A and B .
Solution: Given

A = 3Ux + 5Uy + 6Uz and B = 6Ux + 4Uy + 2Uz

(a) A + B = (3Ux + 5Uy + 6Uz) + (6Ux + 4Uy + 2Uz)

= (3 + 6)Ux + (5 + 4)Uy + (6 + 2)Uz
= 9Ux + 9Uy + 9Uz
(b) A B = Ax Bx + Ay By + Az Bz
Given Ax = 3, Ay = 5, Az = 6 and Bx = 6, By = 4 and Bz = 2
A B = (3 6) + (5 4) + (6 2) = 50
(c) A B = | A | | B | cos AB
We have

| A |=
=
|B |=
=

Also
i.e.,

(d)

Ax2 + A y2 + Az2
32 + 5 2 + 6 2 = 8.366

Bx2 + By2 + Bz2

6 2 + 4 2 + 2 2 = 7.48

A B = 50 (Calculated earlier)
50 = 8.366 7.48 cos AB
cos AB = 0.799
AB = cos1 0.799 = 36.96
Ux Uy Uz
A B = Ax A y Az
Bx B y Bz

Ux
3
6

in determinant form

Yy U z
5
6 = 14Ux + 30Uy + 18Uz on simplification.
4
2

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

(e) Unit normal vector (Un )

Un =

We have
But

AB
|A B|

A B = 14Ux + 30Uy + 18Uz

14 2 + 30 2 + 18 2 = 37.68

| A B |=

and

Un =

14U x + 30U y + 18U z

37.68
= 0.37Ux 0.79Uy + 0.477Uz

Example 1.2: If R A = 3Ux 2Uy + 4Uz, RB = 4Ux + 5Uy 7Uz and point C = (6, 2, 3). Find
(a) RAB (b) | RA | (c) | RB | (d) UA (e) UB (f) UAB (g) unit vector directed from C towards A.
Solution: Given

RA = 3Ux 2Uy + 4Uz, RB = 4Ux + 5Uy 7Uz and point C = (6, 2, 3)

R AB = RB RA
= (4Ux + 5Uy 7Uz ) (3Ux 2Uy + 4Uz )

(a) Vector

= Ux + 7Uy 11Uz
(b) | RA | =

(3) 2 + ( 2) 2 + (4) 2 = 5.38

(c) | RB | =

4 2 + 5 2 + 7 2 = 9.48

(d) Unit vector, UA =

=

RA
| RA |
3U x 2U y + 4U z

5.38
= 0.55Ux 0.37Uy + 0.74Uz

(e) Unit vector, UB =

=

RB
| RB |
4U x + 5U y 7U z

9.48
= 0.42Ux + 0.52Uy 0.73Uz

(f)

UAB =

| R AB | =

UAB =

RAB
| RAB |
(1) 2 + (7) 2 + (11) 2 = 13.07

U x + 7U y 11U z

13.07
= 0.076Ux + 0.53Uy 0.841Uz
( g) Unit vector directed from C to A is UCA
Given

C = (6, 2, 3) but R A = 3Ux 2Uy + 4Uz

UCA =

(3 6)
( 2 2)
(4 3)
Ux +
Uy +
Uz
5.099
5.099
5.099

VECTOR ANALYSIS

since

(3 6) 2 + ( 2 2) 2 + (4 3) 2 = 5.099

UCA = 0.588Ux 0.784Uy 0.196Uz

Example 1.3: Given points A (4, 3, 2), B (2, 1, 4) and C ( 4, 1, 3). Find (a) RAB . RAC
(b) the angle between RAB and RAC (c) length of projection of RAB on RAC (d) vector projection
of R AB on R AC .
Solution:
(a)

RAB = RB RA
= (2Ux + Uy + 4Uz) (4Ux + 3Uy + 2Uz)
= 2Ux 2Uy + 2Uz
RAC = RC RA
= ( 4Ux + Uy + 3Uz) (4Ux + 3Uy + 2Uz)
= 8Ux 2Uy + Uz
RAB . RAC = ( 2) ( 8) + ( 2) ( 2) + (2) (1) = 22
RAB . RAC
| RAB || RAC |

cos =

(b)

22

(2) + (2) + (2)

(8) 2 + (2) 2 + (1) 2
= 0.766
= cos 1 (0.766) = 40

(c) AP = Scalar projection of R AB on R AC

= RAB UAC
= RAB

RAC
=
| RAC |

22
2

(8) + (2) 2 + (1) 2

= 2.648

(d) RAP = Vector projection of R AB on RAC = ( RAB UAC ) UAC

= 2.648

LM
MN

8U x 2U y + U z
( 8) 2 + ( 2) 2 + (1) 2

OP
PQ

= 2.544Ux 0.636Uy + 0.318Uz

Example 1.4: Given the field G =

LM 3x OP U
N1 + y Q
2

+ (y + 2z + 1) Uy + (5x z2) Uz . Find (a)

unit vector in directions of G at P (2, 2, 3) (b) the angle between G and y = 0 plane at Q (2, 0,
4), (c) the value of

z z
2

y=0

x=1

G dx dy Uz at the plane z = 1.

Solution:
(a)

G at point P

LM 3 (2) OP U
N1 + 2 Q
2

+ (2 6 + 1) Uy + [5 (2) ( 3)2] Uz

= 1.2Ux 3Uy Uz

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

U =

|G |
|G |

1. 2U x 3U y 4U z

(1. 2) 2 + ( 3) 2 + ( 4) 2

= 0.233Ux 0.583Uy 0.7782Uz

(b) G at point Q = 3 (2) Ux + (0 + 4 + 1) Uy (5 2 4) Uz

= 6Ux + 5Uy 6Uz
The unit vector Uy is normal to y = 0 plane.
The angle between Uy and G at point Q is given by
cos =

Now

|G ||U y |

=
+ = 90

cos1

(6U x + 5U y 6U z ) . U y
2

(6) + (5) + ( 6)

5
= 0.508
9.84

(0.508) = 59.46

= angle between G at point Q and y = 0 plane

= 90 = 90 59.46 = 30.53
G dx dyU z = (5x z2) dx dy as Ux Uz = Uy Uz = 0

(c)

G .Uy

z z
2

y=0 x=1

G dx dy Uz =

z z
2

y=0

x=1

2 3

=5

LM x OP
N2Q

6 y

(5x z2) dx dy
2
0

(1) 2 x

3
1

2
0

= 36 .

Example 1.5: Find in rectangular components the unit vector which is (a) in the direction
of E at P (1, 2, 2) if E = (x 2 + y 2 + z 2 )

LM
MN

x
y2 + z2

Ux +

y
x2 + z2

Uy +

z
x 2 + y2

Uz

OP
PQ

(b) perpendicular to plane passing through M (2, 6, 6), N ( 1, 2, 1) and Q (1, 2, 3) and having
positive x component (c) find the angle between vectors RMN and RMQ .
Solution:
(a) E at P = [(1)2 + (2)2 + ( 2)2]

LM
MN

Ux
22 + ( 1) 2

2U y
(1) 2 + ( 2) 2

2U z
(1) 2 + (2) 2

OP
PQ

= 3.18Ux + 4.08Uy 4.08Uz

(b)

U =

3.18U x + 4.08U y 4.08U z

E
=
= 0.482Ux + 0.619Uy 0.619Uz
|E|
(3.18) 2 + (4.08) 2 + ( 4.08) 2

RMN = rN rM = ( Ux + 2Uy + Uz) (2Ux 6Uy + 6Uz)

= 3Ux + 8Uy 5Uz
RMQ = rQ rM = (Ux + 2Uy + 3Uz) (2Ux 6Uy + 6Uz)

= Ux + 8Uy 3Uz

Ux U y
RMN RMQ = 3 8
1 8

Uz
5
3

= 16Ux 4Uy 16Uz

VECTOR ANALYSIS

UN =

RMN RMQ
| RMN RMQ |

16U x 4U y 16U z
(16) 2 + ( 4) 2 + ( 16) 2

= (0.696Ux 0.174Uy 0.696Uz)

The unit vector with positive x component = 0.696Ux 0.174Uy 0.696Uz
sin =

(c)

RMN RMQ
| RMN || RMQ |

(16) 2 + ( 4) 2 + ( 16) 2
( 3) 2 + (8) 2 + ( 5) 2

( 1) 2 + (8) 2 + ( 3) 2

= 0.2698
= sin1 (0.2698)= 15.65.

(or)

1.6

THREE DIMENSIONAL COORDINATE SYSTEMS

There are three important methods of fixing a point in space by specified lengths, directions
and angles and they are:
(a) Cartesian coordinate system.
(b) Cylindrical coordinate system.
(c) Spherical coordinate system.

1.6.1 Cartesian Coordinate System

In the Cartesian coordinate system, three coordinate axes which are mutually at right angles
to each other are selected and generally named as x, y and z-axis. It is the usual practice to
select a right handed coordinate system in which a
z
rotation of x-axis into y-axis through smaller angle
P (1, 2, 3)
would cause a right handed screw to advance in the
direction of z-axis. As an example, if the three fingers
of right hand namely thumb, forefinger and middle
finger are held mutually at right angles, then they
may be identified as x, y and z-axis respectively.
(0, 2, 0)
(0, 0, 0)
y
Figure 1.3 shows a right hand system of co(1, 0, 0)
ordinates (x, y, z). A point (1, 2, 3) is shown in the Fig.
P (1, 2, 0)
1.3. To locate the point P, the point P (1, 2, 0) is
located first which is the projection of P on z = 0
x
plane (x y plane). The point P can be located by
going three units along z-axis from P. The above Fig. 1.3 Right-hand system of coordinates
technique is the one known to us in our earlier
discussions.
Thus in terms of Cartesian coordinates a unit vector can thus be founded in the following

way. Let P = Px Ux + Py Uy + Pz Uz , where Px, Py, Pz are the components of P along Ux, Uy, Uz

respectively. The modulus of vector | P | is absolute value of vector.

i.e.,

|P | =

Px2 + Py2 + Pz2

(1.13)

10

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

1.6.2 Cylindrical Coordinate System

Students prefer to work in the Cartesian system or

coordinates since it is easy by virtue of familiarity. But
problem with spherical and cylindrical symmetries are
P (, , z)
not only difficult to work in Cartesian system but the
physics of problem will be lost. It is easy to work out a
O
problem with spherical symmetry in spherical coordinate
system. Depending upon the symmetry of problem, the

suitable coordinate system must be selected to reduce
P (, , z)
the labour involved in working the problem. In the
x
cylindrical three dimensional coordinate system any
point P in space can be represented by coordinate P (,
Fig. 1.4 Cylindrical coordinates
, z), where is distance of P from z-axis, is the angle
measured from x-axis (any reference line) of line OP and z is
z
d
height of P above x-y plane (PP = z) . P is the projection of P
on z = 0 plane as shown in the Fig. 1.4.

Fig. 1.5

In the Fig. 1.5, d and dz are dimensional lengths but not d. So

in order to bring to into a length format, we can consider the basic
mathematical format as defined by:


r

An arc of radius r making an angle with respect to origin will

be projected as a straight line with r, as shown is Fig. 1.6.

Fig. 1.6

So here also in Fig.1.5, if we consider the curvature of angle to be

z
projected as straight line, we can write it as d and
as a result the volume becomes equal to d d dz.

x = cos ; y = sin ; z = z

dz

In the later chapters, as we start doing problems in

electric and magnetic fields, we require transformation of
problem from one system of coordinates to another to reduce
the labour involved in the solution. Before attempting the
transformation of coordinates, it is essential to know the
relation between the variables in one system of coordinates
to the variables in other system of coordinates. If we now
increase (, , z) by + d, + d, z + dz we get a small
volume in the space in the shape of rectangular parallelopiped
as shown in Fig. 1.5.

 cos

From Fig. 1.7 we can write the equations which

help us to convert cylindrical coordinates into Cartesian
coordinates.

 sin


(1.14)

Fig. 1.7

11

VECTOR ANALYSIS

Also from the equation (1.14), it can be written as

y
(1.15)
= x 2 + y 2 ; = tan1 ; z = z
x
The dot product of unit vectors in cylindrical and Cartesian coordinate system can be
given as follows:
U

Uz

Ux

cos

sin

Uy

sin

cos

Uz

Example 1.6: Transform each of following vector to cylindrical coordinates at point

specified (a) 5Ux at P ( = 4, = 120, z = 1) (b) 5Ux at Q (x = 3, y = 4, z = 1) ; (c) 4Ux 2Uy 4Uz
at A (x = 2, y = 3, z = 5).
Solution:
(a)

Let

A = 5Ux = AU + AU + AtUt
A = A U = 5Ux U = 5 cos
A = A U = 5Ux U = 5 sin
Az = A Uz = 5Ux Uz = 0

A = 5 cos U 5 sin U

Substituting coordinate of point P in above vector A at point P = 2.5 U 4.33 U

FG y IJ = tan FG 4 IJ = 53.13
H xK
H 3K

(b)

For point Q, = tan1

A at point Q = 5 cos 53.13Up 5 sin 53.13U

= 3U 4U

(c)

Let

B = 4Ux 2Uy 4Uz = B U + B U + Bz Uz

B = B U = (4Ux 2Uy 4Uz) U
= 4Ux U 2Uy U 4Uz U
= 4 cos 2 sin
B = B U = (4Ux 2Uy 4Uz) U
= 4Ux U 2Uy U 4Uz U
= 4 sin 2 cos

Bz = B Uz = (4Ux 2Uy 4Uz) Uz = 4

B = (4 cos 2 sin ) U + ( 4 sin 2 cos ) U 4Uz

for point A, = tan1

FG y IJ = tan FG 3 IJ = 56.31
H xK
H 2K
1

Substituting coordinate of point A in above expression

B at point A = 0.555U 4.438U 4Uz

12

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

Example 1.7: Give the vector in (a) Cartesian coordinates that extends from P ( = 5,
= 15, z = 2) to Q ( = 6, = 65, z = 5) (b) Give the vector in cylindrical coordinate at M (x = 4,
y = 2, z = 3) that extends to N(1, 5, 5) (c) How far is it from A (100, 60, 10) to B (20, 115, 15)?
Solution: (a) Cartesian coordinate of point P are x = 5 cos 15 = 4.829; y = 5 sin15
= 1.294; z = 2, i.e., P (4.829, 1.294, 2) and that of point Q are x = 6 cos 65 = 2.535; y = 6 sin 65
= 5.437; z = 5, i.e., Q (2.535, 5.437, 5).

RPQ = rQ rP

= (2.535Ux + 5.437Uy + 5Uz) (4.829Ux + 1.294Uy + 2Uz)

= 2.294Ux + 4.413Uy + 3Uz
(b)

RMN = rN rM = (1Ux + 5Uy + 5Uz) (4Ux + 2Uy + 3Uz)

= 3Ux + 3Uy + 2Uz

Let

A = RMN = 3Ux + 3Uy + 2Uz = AU + A U+ AzUz

A = A U = 3Ux U + 3Uy U + 2Uz U
= 3 cos + 3 sin
A = A U = 3Ux U + 3Uy U + 2Uz U

= 3 sin + 3 cos
Az = A Uz = 3Ux Uz + 3Uy Uz + 2Uz Uz = 2

A = RMN = ( 3 cos + 3 sin ) U + (3 sin + 3 cos ) U + 2Uz

For point M, = tan1

FG 2 IJ = 26.56. Substitution this value of in the above vector we

H 4K

have RMN at point M = 1.341U + 3.997U + 2Uz

(c) Cartesian coordinate of point A are x = 100 cos 60 = 50; y = 100 sin 60 = 86.60;
z = 10
i.e., A (50, 86.60, 10) and that of point B are x = 20 cos 115 = 8.452;
distance of

y = 20 sin 115 = 18.126; z = 15, i.e., B ( 8.452, 18.126, 15)

AB = [(50 + 8.452)2 + (86.60 18.126)2 + ( 10 15)2 ]1/2 = 93.436

Example.1.8: Given the points P( = 10, = 45, z = 4) and Q ( = 5, = 80, z = 3)

(a) Find the distance | RPQ | (b) Give a unit vector in Cartesian coordinate at P that is directed
towards Q (c) Give a unit vector in cylindrical coordinates at P that is directed towards Q.
Solution: (a) Cartesian coordinate of point P are x = 10 cos 45 = 7.071; y = 10 sin 45
= 7.071; z = 4, i.e., P (7.071, 7.071, 4) and that of point Q are x = 5 cos 80 = 0.8682; y = 5 sin 80
= 4.924 ; z = 3, i.e., Q (0.8682, 4.924, 3).
Hence, distance of
(b)

PQ =

(7.071 0.8682) 2 + (7.071 4.924) 2 + (4 + 3) 2 = 9.596

RPQ = rQ rP

= (0.8682Ux + 4.924Uy 3Uz ) (7.071Ux + 7.071Uy + 4Uz )

= 6.2028Ux 2.147Uy 7Uz

13

VECTOR ANALYSIS

UPQ =

RPQ
| RPQ |

6.2028U x 2.147U y 7U z
9.596

= 0.6464Ux 0.2237Uy 0.7295Uz

(c)

Let

A = RPQ = 6.2028Ux 2.147Uy 7Uz = A U + A U + Az Uz

A = A U = 6.202Ux U 2.147Uy U 7Uz U
= 6.202 cos 2.147 sin
A = A U = 6.2028Ux U 2.147Uy U 3Uz U
= 6.2028 sin 2.147 cos
Az = A Uz = 6.2028Ux Uz 2.147Uy Uz 3Uz Uz
=3

A = RPQ = ( 6.2028 cos 2.147 sin ) U + (6.2028 sin 2.147 cos ) U 3 Uz

Substituting the coordinates of point P in above A we get RPQ

at point P = 5.9042U + 2.867U 3Uz.
Example 1.9: (a) Express the field F = 3 xyz Ux 6 (x + y + z) Uz in cylindrical coordinate
(variables and components) (b) Find | F | at P( = 2, = 60, z = 3).
Solution:
(a)

F = 3xyz Ux 6 (x + y + z) Uz = F U + F U + Fz Uz
F = F U = 3 xyz Ux U 6 (x + y + z) Uz U
= 3 xyz cos 6 (x + y + z) (0)
= 3 ( cos ) ( sin ) (z) cos
= 3 2 z cos2 sin
F = F U = 3 xyz Ux U 6 (x + y + z) Uz U
= 3 xyz ( sin ) 6 (x + y + z) (0)
= 3 ( cos ) (r sin ) (z) sin
= 32 z cos sin2
Fz = F Uz = 3 xyz Ux Uz 6 (x + y + z) Uz Uz
= 3 xyz (0) 6 (x + y + z) (1)
= 6 (x + y + z)
= 6 ( cos + sin + z)

F = 32 z cos2 sin U 32z cos sin2 U 6 ( cos + sin + z) Uz

(b) Substituting the coordinate of point P in the above F , we have

F = 5.196U 9U 28.660Uz
| F | at P =

(5.196) 2 + ( 9) 2 + ( 28.660) 2 = 30.486.

Example 1.10: Transform each of the following vector to cylindrical coordinates at

the point specified (a) 6Ux at P ( = 5, = 110, Z = 2) (b) 6Ux at Q (x = 4, y = 6, z = 1)
(c) 5Ux 3Uy 4Uz at A (x = 3, y = 4, z = 5).

14

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

Solution:
(a)

Let

A = 6Ux = A U + A U + Az Uz
A = A U = 6 Ux U = 6 cos
A = A U = 6 Ux U = 6 sin
Az = A Uz = 6 Ux Uz = 0
A = 6 cos U 6 sin U

Substituting coordinate of point P in the above vector we have A at point P as

A = 2.052U 5.638U
(b) For point Q,

= tan1

FG y IJ = tan FG 6 IJ = 56.30
H xK
H 4K
1

A at point Q = 6 cos 56.30 U 6 sin 56.30 U = 3.32U 4.99U

(c) Let

B = 5Ux 3Uy 4Uz = B U + B U + Bz Uz

B = B U = (5Ux 3Uy 4Uz) U
= 5Ux U 3Uy U 4Uz U
= 5 cos 3 sin
B = B U = (5Ux 3Uy 4Uz) U
= 5 sin 3 cos
Bz = B Uz = (5Ux 3Uy 4Uz) Uz = 4Uz

B = (5 cos 3 sin ) U + ( 5 sin 3 cos ) U 4Uz

for point A , = tan1

FG y IJ = tan FG 4 IJ = 53.12
H 3K
H xK
1

Substituting coordinate of point A is the above B we have B at point A

B = 0.60U 5.799U 4Uz

1.6.3 Spherical Coordinate System

We have no two-dimensional coordinate system to help us understand the three dimensional
spherical coordinate system, as we have for the circular cylindrical coordinate system. In certain
respects we can draw on our knowledge of the latitude
z
and longitude system of locating a place on surface of
Ur
earth, but usually we consider only points on surface
and not those below (or) above ground.
U
Let us start by building a spherical coordinate

system on the three Cartesian axes. First define the
r
U
distance from origin to any point as r as shown in the
y
Fig. 1.8. The second coordinate is an angle between
z-axis and line drawn from origin to the point in question.

The third coordinate is also an angle and is exactly the
same as angle of cylindrical coordinate. It is the angle
x
between the x-axis and the projection in z = 0 plane of
Fig. 1.8 Spherical coordinates

15

VECTOR ANALYSIS

line drawn from origin to the point. The unit vectors corresponding to the three coordinate
axes are also represented in the Fig.1.8. They are mutually perpendicular and a differential
volume element made of following differential elements dr, d, d can be created. The differential
distance r can be written as dr; the differential angle can be written as r d and the
differential angle can be written as r sin d and as a result the volume of differential
element can be written as r sin dr d d.
In order to convert the spherical coordinates into Cartesian coordinates the following
equations can be used:
x = r sin cos ; y = r sin sin ; z = r cos
(1.16)
The transformation in the reverse direction is achieved with help of following equations
which are derived from eqn. (1.16):
r = x 2 + y2 + z 2 ; = cos1

z
2

x +y +z

; = tan 1

y
x

(1.17)

The dot product of unit vectors of spherical and Cartesian coordinate systems can be
given as follows:
Ur

Ux

sin cos

cos cos

sin

Uy

sin sin

cos sin

cos

Uz

cos

sin

Example 1.11: Transform each of the following vectors to spherical coordinates at

specified point (a) 3Ux at B (r = 4, = 25, = 120); (b) 4Ux at A(x = 2, y = 3, z = 1);
(c) 4Ux 2Uy 4Uz at P(x = 2, y = 3, x = 4).
Solution: (a) Let

A = 3Ux = ArUr + AU + AU
Ar = A Ur = 3Ux Ur = 3 sin cos
A = A U = 3Ux U = 3 cos cos
A = A U = 3Ux U = 3 sin

A = 3 sin cos Ur + 3 cos cos U 3 sin U

Substituting and coordinates at point B in above vector we have A , at point B

= 0.633Ur 1.359U 2.59U
(b) for point

A, r = (2) 2 + (3) 2 + ( 1) 2 = 3.742

= cos1

FG 1 IJ = 105.5; = tan FG 3 IJ = 56.3

H 3.742 K
H 2K
1

Substituting and coordinate of point A in above A , we have A at point

A = 2.137Ur 0.2925U 3.32U
(c) Let

B = 4Ux 2Uy 4Uz = Br Ur + B U + B U

Br = B Ur = (4Ux 2Uy 4Uz) Ur

16

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

= 4Ux Ur 2Uy Ur 4Uz Ur

= 4 cos cos 2 cos sin + 4 sin
B = B U = (4Ux 2Uy 4Uz) U
= 4Ux U 2Uy U 4Uz U
= 4 sin 2 cos

for point P,

B = (4 sin cos 2 sin sin 4 cos ) Ur

+ (4 cos cos 2 cos sin + 4 sin ) U
+ ( 4 sin + 2 cos ) U
r=

( 2) 2 + ( 3) 2 + (4) 2 = 5.385

FG 4 IJ = 42.03
H 5K
F 3 IJ = 236.3
= 180 + tan G
H 2K
= cos1

and

Substituting and coordinates of point P is above B expression we have B

at point
P = 3.343Ur + 2.266U + 4.438U
Example 1.12: An electric field intensity is given as E =

FG 80 (cos ) U
H r
3

40 sin
r

IJ
K

At the point whose spherical coordinates are r = 2, = 60, = 20. Find (a) | E | (b) a unit
vector in (Cartesian coordinates) in direction of E.
Solution:
(a)

E =

Ur +

r
= 5Ur + 4.330U

| E |=
(b)

80 cos 60

40 sin 60
r3

(5) 2 + (4.330) 2 = 6.614

E = Ex Ux + Ey Uy + Ez Uz
Ex = E Ux = 5Ur Ux + 4.330U Ux
= 5 sin cos + 4.330 cos cos

Ey = E Uy = 5Ur Uy + 4.330U Uy
= 5 sin cos + 4.330 cos sin

Ez = E Uz = 5Ur Uz + 4.330U Uz
= 5 cos 4.330 sin

E = (5 sin cos + 4.330 cos cos )Ux + (5 sin sin

+ 4.330 cos sin )Uy + (5 cos 4.330 sin )Uz
Substituting = 60 and = 20 in above vector equation
E at point (r = 2, = 60, = 20) = 6.094Ux + 2.220Uy 1.249Uz

17

VECTOR ANALYSIS

UE =

E
=
|E |

6.049U x + 2.220U y 1.49U z

(6.049) 2 + (2.220) 2 + ( 1.49) 2

= 0.923Ux + 0.336Uy 0.189Uz

1.7

GRADIENT OF SCALAR FIELD

Let V denote a scalar field. The vector whose x, y and z-coordinates are

is termed
,
and
x y
z

as gradient of V at point (x, y, z). It is denoted by grad V (or) V. So by definition

grad V (or) V =

Ux +
U y + Uz
x
y
z

(1.18)

From the above expression after comparison, we can write as

=

Ux +
Uy +
Uz
x
y
z

(1.19)

Here is not a vector but only a differential operator. Hence, gradient operation on a
scalar turns it into a vector.

1.8

DIVERGENCE OF VECTOR FIELD

Let V denote a vector field and represented as

Vx Vy Vz
is termed
+
+
x
y
z
as divergence of vector V. So evidently divergence of vector is a scalar, since above sum is
a scalar.
V = Vx Ux + Vy Uy + Vz Uz. The sum of partial derivative viz.,

div V (or) V =

Vx Vy Vz
+
+
x
y
z

(1.20)

If divergence of a vector is zero, the vector is termed as divergence free vector.

1.8.1 Significance of Divergence

If vector V represents the velocity of fluid in motion at any point, it can be shown that V
represents the rate at which fluid flows out of unit volume enclosing that point.

1.9

LAPLACIAN OF SCALAR FIELD

Let V represent a scalar field

Now

V =

FG U
H x

IJ
K

Uy +
Uz V
y
z

(1.21)

18

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

Now determine the divergence of equation (1.21)

( V) =
=

LM U
N x

OP
Q

Uy +
Uz V
y
z

(1.22)

2V 2V 2V
+ 2 + 2
x 2
y
z

(1.23)

So the expression on R.H.S. is termed as laplacian of scalar field V.

1.10 CURL OF A VECTOR FIELD

Consider a vector V = Vx Ux + Vy Uy + Vz Uz
We define curl as V, so implementing the above formulae we can get
Ux

V=
x
Vx

V=
So we can write as

Uy

y
Vy

IJ U + FG V V IJ U + FG V V IJ U
(1.24)
H z x K H x y K
z K
V I F V
V I F V
V I
,G
,G

J
J
J is termed as curl of vector V.
z K H z
x K H x
y K

FG V
H y

FG V
H y

Uz

z
Vz

V y

Example 1.13: Given vector field G = 3x2 y Ux 4 (z x) Uy + 6xyz Uz. Find (a) G at
P(1, 2, 3) (b) a unit vector in direction of G at P (c) the (scalar) equation of surface on which
| G | = 90; (d) the y-coordinate of Q (2, y, 3) if | GQ | = 90 and y > 0, (e) the distance between
P and Q.
Solution:
(a)

G at P = 3 (1)2 (2)Ux 4(3 1)Uy + 6 (2) (3)Uz

= 6Ux 8Uy + 36Uz
G

(b)

U =

(c)

|G |=

|G |

6U x 8U y + 36U z
(6) 2 + ( 8) 2 + (36) 2

= 0.16Ux 0.214Uy 0.96Uz

(3 x 2 y) 2 + [ 4( z x)]2 + (6 xyz) 2
9 x 4 y 2 + 16( z x) 2 + 36 x 2 y 2 z 2 = 90

Squaring on both sides we have scalar equation of surface as

9x4 y2 + 16 (z x)2 + 36x2 y2 z2 = 8100
(d) Substitute the coordinates of point Q in above equation of surface

9 (2)4 y2 + 16 [3 2]2 + 36 (2)2 y2 (3)2 = 8100

144 y2 = 6788
(or)

y2 = 47.13

(or) y = 6.86

19

VECTOR ANALYSIS

Since y > 0, y = 6.86 is selected.

(1 2) 2 + (2 6.86) 2 + (3 3) 2 = 4.96.

(e) Distance between (PQ) =

Example 1.14: (a) Find the volume defined by 4 < < 6, 30 < < 60, 2 < z < 5 (b) what
is length of longest straight line that lies entirely within the volume? (c) find the total area of
surface.
Solution:
(a)

60 5

30 2

z zz z

Volume =

dv =
2 6

L O
=M P
N2Q

60
30

d d dz

[ z]52 = 15.708

(b) Suppose points P and Q are diametrically opposite corners of the volume. Then the
lower limits of , and z gives the coordinates of point P where as the higher limits of , and
z given coordinates of point Q.

P (4, 30, 2) and Q (6, 60, 5)

Distance between

(4 cos 30 6 cos 60 ) 2 + (4 sin 30 6 sin 60 ) 2 + (2 5) 2

PQ =

= 4.408
(c) Six surface of volume are located by coordinates
= 4 and 6, = 30 and 60; z = 2 and 5
S = S1 + S2 + S3 + S4 + S5 + S6
=

60

30

z z

d dz +
=2

60

30

z z

=6

+
=4

60
30

5
2

+6

60
30

5
2

zz
zz

d dz +

6
4

60

30

5
2

d dz +
= 30

zz
zz
6

2 = 60

d d dz +

z=2

6
4

+ z

d dz

60

30

d d dz
z=2

5
2

2 6

L O L O
+ M P M P
N2Q N Q
2

60

+
30

2 6

60

30

LM OP LMOP
N4Q N Q

= 38.180.
Example 1.15: Points A (r = 90, = 90, = 0) and B (r = 90, = 90, = 5) are located
on the surface of 100 m radius sphere (a) what is their separation, using a path on spherical
surface? (b) what is their separation, using a straight line path?
Solution: (a) d L = dr Ur + rd U + r sin d U
For points A and B, r and coordinates are constant. Hence dr and d both are equal to
zero. Hence dL = r sin d U (or) dL = r sin d

L=

z z
dL =

r sin d

= 90 sin 90
= 7.86

5
0

where r = 90 and = 90

20

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

(b) distance between AB = [(90 sin 90 cos 0 90 sin 90 cos 5)2

+ (90 sin 90 sin 0 90 sin 90 sin 5)2 + (90 cos 90 90 cos 90)2]1/2 = 7.847.
Example 1.16: Given point A (x = 3, y = 4, z = 2) and B ( = 3, = 45, z = 2), find a
unit vector in cylindrical coordinates (a) at point B directed towards point A (b) at point A
directed towards point B.
Solution:
(a) Cartesian coordinate of point B are x = 3 cos ( 45) = 2.12, y = 3 sin ( 45) = 2.12
z=2

i.e., B (2.12, 2.12, 2)

RBA = rA rB = (3Ux + 4Uy 2Uz ) (2.12Ux 2.12Uy + 2Uz)

Let

A = RBA = 0.88Ux + 6.12Uy 4Uz = AU + A U + Az Uz

A = A U = 0.88Ux U + 6.12Uy U 4Uz U
= 0.88 cos + 6.12 sin
A = A U = 0.88Ux U + 6.12Uy U 4Uz U
= 0.88 sin + 6.12 cos
Az = A Uz = 0.88Ux Uz + 6.12Uy Uz 4Uz Uz = 4

A = RBA = (0.88 cos + 6.12 sin )U + (0.88 sin + 6.12 cos )U 4Uz

Substituting coordinate of point B in the above vector we have RBA

at point B = 3.705U + 4.949U 4Uz

U BA =

RBA
| RBA |

3.705U + 4.949U 4U z
( 3.705) 2 + (4.949) 2 + ( 4) 2

= 0.503U + 0.672U 0.543Uz

(b)

R AB = rB rA = (2.12Ux 2.12Uy + 2Uz) (3Ux + 4Uy 2Uz)

= 0.88Ux 6.12Uy + 4Uz

Let

B = RAB = 0.88Ux 6.12Uy + 4Uz

B = B U = 0.88Ux U 6.12Uy U + 4Uz U
= 0.88 cos 6.12 sin
B = B U = 0.88Ux U 6.12Uy U + 4Uz U
= 0.88 sin 6.12 cos
Bz = B Uz = 0.88Ux Uz 6.12Uy Uz + 4Uz Uz = 4

B = R AB = (0.88 cos 6.12 sin )U + (0.88 sin 6.12 cos )U + 4Uz

For point A, = tan1

FG 4 IJ = 53.12. Substituting this value of in the above vector we

H 3K

have R AB at point A = 5.423U 2.969U + 4Uz

UAB =

5.423U 2.969U + 4U z
RAB
=
| RAB | [( 5.423) 2 + ( 2.969) 2 + (4) 2 ]1/ 2

= 0.736U 0.403U + 0.543Uz.

21

VECTOR ANALYSIS

Example 1.17: A vector field is specified by F = 4 (x + y) sin z Ux (x2 + y)Uy

LM 20 OP U . Specify the locus of all points at which (a) F

Nx + y Q
2

= 0 (b) Fy = 0 (c) | Fz | = 1.

Solution:
(a)

(b)

F = Fx Ux + Fy Uy + Fz Uz
Fx = 4 (x + y) sin z = 0
x + y = 0 (or) sin z = 0
y = x (or) z = 0, , 2 ..
y = x represents a plane and z = 0, 1, 2, 3 represents planes
Fy = (x2 + y) = 0
y = x2. It represents a parabolic cylinder

(c)

Fz =
| Fz | =

20
2

x + y2
20
2

x + y2
2
2
x + y = 20

=1

It represents a circular cylinder of radius 20 with z-axis as its axis.

Example 1.18: If A = 10ux 4uy + 6uz and B = 2ux + uy, find (a) the component of A
along

u y (b) the magnitude of 3A B (c) a unit vector along A + 3B.

Solution:
(a) The component of A along

u y is Ay = 4

(b) 3A B = 3(10, 4, 6) (2, 1, 0)

= (30, 12, 18) (2, 1, 0)
= (28, 13, 18)
Hence | 3A B |=

(28) 2 + (13) 2 + (18) 2

= 35.74
(c) Let C = A + 2 B = (10, 4, 6) + (4, 2, 0) = (14, 2, 6)
A unit vector along C is given by
(14, 2, 6)
C
=
uc =
|C|
14 2 + (2) 2 + 6 2
uc = 0.9113ux 0.1302uy + 0.3906uz
Example 1.19: Points P and Q are located at (0, 2, 4) and ( 3, 1, 5). Calculate (a) the
position vector of P(b) the distance vector from P to Q (c) the distance between P and Q (d) a
vector parallel to PQ with magnitude of 10.
Solution:
(a) rp = 0ux + 2uy + 4uz = 2uy + 4uz
(b) R pq = rq rp = ( 3, 1, 5) (0, 2, 4) = ( 3, 1, 1)
i.e., R pq = 3ux uy + uz

22

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

(c) Since R pq is the distance vector from P to Q the distance between P and Q is the
9 + 1 + 1 = 3.317.

magnitude of this vector i.e., d = | rpq | =

(d) Let the required vector be A, then it can be written as A = AuA, where A = 10 is the
magnitude of A. Since A is parallel to PQ, it must have the same unit vector as rpq.
uA =

Hence

rpq
| rpq |

(3, 1, 1)
3.317

10 ( 3, 1, 1)
= ( 9.045ux 3.015uy + 3.015uz)
3.317
10
ur + r cos u + u in Cartesian coordinates and
Example 1.20: Express vector B =
r
also find B( 3, 4, 0).
Solution:
Using the concept to convert spherical coordinated to cylindrical coordinates it can be
written as
A=

and

10
sin cos + r cos2 cos sin
r
10
By =
sin sin + r cos2 sin cos
r
10
Bz =
cos + r cos sin
r
Bx =

x2 + y2
1 y
and = tan
x
z

But r = x 2 + y 2 + z 2 , = tan 1
Hence, sin =

=
r

sin =

y
=

x2 + y2
2

x + y +z
y
2

x +y

cos =

; cos =

z
=
r

x
=

z
2

x + y2 + z 2
x

x + y2

Substituting all the above equations in the basic equation it yields,

Bx =

By =

10 x 2 + y2
2

(x + y + z )
10 x
2

(x + y + z )
10 x 2 + y 2
2

(x + y + z )
10 y
2

(x + y + z )

x
x +y
2

x 2 + y2 + z2
2

(x + y + z )

xz 2
2

(x + y ) (x + y + z )
y
x 2 + y2

(x + y + z )

(x + y ) (x + y + z )

z2 x
x +y
2

y
x + y2
2

x 2 + y2 + z2

yz 2
2

x + y2

z2 y
x 2 + y2
x
2

x + y2

x
x2 + y2

23

VECTOR ANALYSIS

Bz =

10 z
(x2 + y2 + z2 )

z x 2 + y2
(x2 + y2 + z2 )

At ( 3, 4, 0) the value of B can be shown as

Bx =
By =

30
4
+0 =2
25
5

40
3
+0 =1
25
5

Bz = 0 0 = 0
Thus it can be written as B = 2ux + uy.

1
sin cos u + r2u . Determine
r
(a) D at P(10, 150, 330) (b) the component of D tangential to the spherical surface r = 10 at P
(c) a unit vector at P perpendicular to D and tangential to the cone = 150
Solution:
(a) At P, r = 10, = 150, = 330.
Example 1.21: Given a vector field D = r sin ur

Hence D = 10 sin 330ur

1
sin 150 cos 330 u + 100u = ( 5, 0.043,100)
10

(b) Any vector D can be resolved into two orthogonal components: D = Dt + Dn where

Dt is tangential to a given surface and Dn is normal to it. In this case, since u r is normal to
the surface r = 10. i.e., Dn = r sin ur = 5ur
Hence
Dt = D Dn = 0.043u + 100u
(c) A vector at P perpendicular to D and tangential to the cone = 150 is the same as
the vector perpendicular to both D and u.
Hence

ur
u
u
D u = 5 0.043 100
0
1
0

= 100ur 5u
A unit vector along this is given by u =

100ur 5u
100 2 + 5 2

= 0.9988ur 0.0499u.

Example 1.22: Show that the cosines of the angle between the vectors A and B is given
by the sum of the products of their direction cosines.
Solution:
Let cos 1, cos 1, cos 1 be the direction cosines of A and cos 2, cos 2, cos 2 be the
direction cosines of B, then A = Axux + Ayuy + Azuz
= Ax2 + A y2 + Az2

LM
MMN

Ax
Ax2 + A y2 + Az2

ux +

Ay
Ax2 + Ay2 + Az2

uy +

Az
Ax2 + A y2 + Az2

uz

OP
PPQ

24

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

or

A = | A | [cos 1ux + cos 1uy + cos 1uz]

where

A=

Ax2 + A y2 + Az2

Ax = A cos 1; Ay = A cos 1; Az = A cos 1;

B = | B | [cos 1ux + cos 1uy + cos 1uz]

Similarly

A . B = | AB | cos

= | AB | [cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2]

where is the angle between vectors A and B

cos = cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2

= cos1[cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2 + cos 1 cos 2]

Example 1.23: Transform the vector 4ux 2uy 4uz into spherical coordinates at a point
P(x = 2, y = 3, z = 4).
Solution:
Given the vector 4ux 2uy 4uz and it is to be transformed into spherical coordinates at
point P(x = 2, y = 3, z = 4). The parameters in spherical system can be obtained as follows:
r=

x 2 + y 2 + z 2 = 5.385;

In this case y and

i.e.,

= cos1

z
y
= 42.03; = tan1 = 56.31
r
x

x are both negative, so the point is in 3rd quadrant.

= 180 + 56.31 = 123.69

cos = 0.7428; sin = 0.6695; cos = 0.5547; sin = 0.8321

The components of the vector in r, and direction need to be found out in order to
convert the vector into spherical coordinates
Ar = A ur = (4ux 2uy 4uz) ur
= 4 sin cos 2 sin sin 4 cos
= 3.342
A = A u = (4ux 2uy 4uz) u
= 4 cos cos 2 cos cos 4 sin
= 2.266
A = A u = (4ux 2uy 4uz) u
= 4 sin 2 cos
= 4.4378
So, the vector in spherical coordinates can be written as
A (r, , ) = 3.342ur + 2.266u + 4.4378u.

SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. Define scalar quantity and vector quantity.
Scalar quantity is one which has only magnitude but no direction. Vector quantity is
one which has both magnitude and direction.

25

VECTOR ANALYSIS

2. What is meant dot product and cross product of two vectors?

Dot product and cross product are two methods of vector multiplication. If A and B are

two vectors their dot product is A B = | A | | B | cos where /q is the angle between

A and B and the cross product of A and B is defined as A B = | A | | B | sin un,

where un is the unit vector normal to plane containing A and B .

3. Define unit vectors in rectangular coordinate system.
In rectangular coordinate system the unit vector ux, uy and uz are in x, y, and z-coordinate
directions. And always they are mutually perpendicular each other.
4. Define unit vectors in cylindrical coordinate system.
In cylindrical coordinate system u is the unit vector along -coordinate axis, which is
measured radially outward from z-axis. The u is unit angle in coordinate axis directions,
which is measured from positive x-axis in positive director of angle measurement. And
uz is the unit vector in z-coordinate axis direction, which is measured as usual like in
rectangular coordinate system. Thus u, u and uz are three unit vectors in cylindrical
coordinate system, which are always mutually perpendicular to each other.
5. Define unit vectors in spherical coordinate system.
In spherical coordinate system ur , u and u are the three unit vectors which are always
perpendicular each other. Here, ur is the unit vector r-axis, which is measured always
radially outward from the point of origin. u is already defined in cylindrical coordinate
system and u is unit angle measured from positive z-axis in anti clock wise direction.
6. What do you mean by gradient?
Gradient is the concept of rate of change of a scalar in the given field.
7. What do you mean by divergence?
The net out flow of flux per unit volume is called as the divergence. Divergence of vector

A is defined as A (Divergence of A) or div A . From a charged body there is continuous

out flow of flux, like sunrays come out continuously from sun. These are the examples of
positive divergence, since there is a net out flow. If a vaccum tube is broken there is
inflow of air. This is an example of negative divergence since inflow is negative outflow.

8. What is concept of curl?

Curl is defined as the net circulation per unit area. Curl of vector A is defined as A

(curl of A) or Curl A . Consider wind whirl pool which is upward. If a piece of paper is
released here, it rotates and finally moves up ward. This is an example of curl.
9. What is concept of laplacian?
Laplacian is of scalar and vector type Laplacian (scalar) is defined as divergence of
gradient of scalar and is mathematically represented as 2 = . , where is scalar.

And Laplacian vector is defined as follows: 2 A = grad (div A ) curl A .

10. State the condition for the vector to be solenoid.

The vector is said | P | to be solenoid P = 0 if and is irrotational if P = 0.

26

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

MULTIPLE CHOICES
1. The electric charges
1. are conserved
3. exist in pairs

2. are quantized
4. have a circular field around it

In the above statements, the following are true

(a) 1 only
(b) 1, 2
(c) 1, 4
(d) 1, 2, 3
2. The electric charge is transferred from one body to another insulated metal body only
when
1. the medium is vaccum
3. the medium is any dielectric

2. the medium is dry air

In the above, the true statements are

(a) 1
(b) 2, 3
(c) 1, 2, 3
3. A body can be charged when it is
1. an insulator
3. held in hand
The false statements are
(a) 1, 2

(d) 1, 3
2. an insulated metal body
4. charged in humid environment
(b) 3

(c) 3, 4
(d) 1, 4
4. Between a hollow and solid metal sphere, charges reside
(a) on the outer surface in both
(b) on outer surface in hollow and throughout in solid
(c) throughout in both
(d) none
5. There is a charged metal sphere and thin circular plate. Distribution of charge around
the surface is
(a) uniform in both
(b) uniform in sphere and bulging at the edges in plate
(c) non-uniform in both
(d) Uniform in circular plate and non-uniform in sphere
6. A lighting conductor on top of a building is made into a pointed spike because
(a) rain drops may not collect
(b) dust particles may not accumulate
(c) charge per unit area becomes very high for lightning to discharge
(d) as decoration
7. A charged plate is touched by a metal rod standing on a wooden platform
(a) the plate is discharged completely
(b) the charge is unaffected in the plate
(c) the charge is transferred to the metal rod
(d) none

27

VECTOR ANALYSIS

8. A point charge of + 3.0 106 coulomb is 12 cm from a second point charge of 1.5 106
coulomb. The magnitude and direction of the force on each charge is
(a) 2 nt directed away from each other
(b) 2.81 nt directed towards each other
(c) 2.81 nt directed away from each other
(d) 1.5 nt towards each other
9. A charged rod attracts bits of uncharged paper. After touching the rod, they jump
violently away from it because
(a) there is no place in the rod for all bits
(b) the charged rod gives a shock to the bits of paper
(c) on contact with the rod, the bits of paper acquire the same charge as the rod and are
repelled
(d) none
10. When charges are applied to a gold leaf electroscope
(a) the leaves converge for positive charges
(b) the leaves remain stationary
(c) the leaves diverge for negative charges
(d) the leaves diverge for both positive and negative charges
11. A conductor and an insulator are heated;
(a) conductivity increases and insulator unaffected
(b) insulating power increases while conducting power remains same
(c) insulator decreases in insulating power and conductor decreases in conducting power
(d) both are unaffected
12. Match the following:
(a) Mercury
1. Insulator
(b) Cotton
2. Conductor
(c) Sulphur
3. Partial conductor
(d) Ivory
4. Partial insulator
13. The unit of 0, the permittivity of free space is
(a) (coulomb)2 / newton-metre2
(b) (coulomb)2 joule-metre
(c) farad / metre
(d) none correct
14. Two positive charges 10 coulomb and 15 coulomb are separated by a distance of 10
cms with a dielectric of alcohol. Find the force between them. r of alcohol is 20.
(a) 180 N
(c) 9 N

(b) 135 N
(d) 6.75 N

15. F12 and F13 are two forces of 2 and 3 newtons. F13 makes
an angle 30 with normal as shown in Fig.1.9. The force
acting in x-direction is
(a) 5 N
(c) 1 N

(b) 3.5 N
(d) 1 N

q1

x
F12


30
F13

Fig. 1.9

28

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

16. In problem 15, the force acting along y-direction is

(a) 2.6 N
(c) 1 N

(b) 3 N
(d) 2.6 N

17. The resultant force F of F1x and F1y in Problem 15 is

(a) 5 N

(b) 3 N

(c) 4.36 N

(d) 2 N

18. A pith ball of 10 g carries a charge of 10 C. What must be a charge on a ball placed
10 cm directly above which will hold the pith ball in equilibrium?
(a) 1 C

(b) 0.011 C

(c) 0.011 C

(d) 0.1 C

19. Arrange the following forces in descending order of their strength:

(a) electromagnetic

(b) nuclear

(c) gravitational

(d) radioactive decay

(a) 1, 2, 3, 4

(b) 1, 3, 2, 4

(c) 1, 4, 3, 2

(d) 2, 1, 4, 3

20. There are two positive charges separated by a distance

(a) the lines of force will occupy the space between them in all manner
(b) the electric lines of force will emanate from the two charges and occupy the space
without crossing
(c) there will be null points in the line joining the two charges
(d) the entire space between the charges will be without lines of force
21. The electric field strength of a charge
(a) increases with distance
(b) decreases with distance
(c) decreases with square of distance
(d) decreases with cube of distance
22. Electric lines of force do not cross each other because
(a) the tangent to the line of force gives the direction of E and if they cross, there will be
two tangents for E which is not possible
(b) the lines of force mutually repel
(c) the lines of force emanate from a point charge
(d) they are parallel to each other
23. Two charges of unknown sign and magnitude are a distance d apart. The electric field
strength is zero at a point joining them
(a) the two charges are of opposite kinds
(b) the two charges are of some kinds
(c) the two charges, though of same kinds are of equal magnitude
(d) the two charges of different kinds have units 1 : 2

29

VECTOR ANALYSIS

24. Identify which of the following quantities is not a vector:

(a) force
(c) toleration

(b) momentum
(d) work

25. Which of the following is not a scalar field:

(a) displacement of a mosquito in space
(b) high intensity in a drawing room
(c) temperature distribution in your classroom
(d) atmospheric pressure in a given region
26. The vector projection of A = 5ux 10uz in the direction of uz is
(a) 10
(c) 10ux
27.

(b) 10uz
(d) 10uy

A = 10ux + 5uy ; B = 2uz, A B =

(a) 20ux 20uy

(b) 20uy + 10uz

(c) 10ux + 10uy

(d) 10ux 20uy
28. A different volume formed in a cylindrical coordinate system is
(a) dr dz
(c) r d dz

(b) r dr d
(d) all of these

29. The component of 6ux+ 2uy 3uz along 3ux 4uy is

(a) 12ux 9uy 3uz
(b) 30ux 40uz
(c) 10/7

(d) 2

KEY
1. (d)
7. (c)

2. (c)
8. (b)

3. (c)
9. (c)

4. (a)
10. (d)

5. (b)
11. (c)

6. (c)

12. (a) 2, (b) 3, (c) 1, (d) 4 13. (d)

17. (c)
18. (c)
19. (d)

14. (d)
20. (c)

15. (b)
21. (c)

16. (a)
22. (a)

23. (b)
29. (d)

26. (b)

27. (b)

28. (d)

24. (d)

25. (a)

REVIEW QUESTIONS
1. What is a scalar quantity? Give some examples of scalars.
2. What is a vector quantity? Give some examples of vectors.
3. What do we mean when we say that two vectors are equal?
4. What is the significance of zero vector and is vector addition closed?
5. Can the dot product be negative? If yes, what must be the condition?
6. Can you reason why the dot product of two vectors is known as scalar product?
7. How can you determine if two vectors are dependent or independent?

30

ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS

8. Is division of a vector by another vector defined?

9. Give some physical examples of dot product and cross product.
10. Is the projection of a vector on another vector unique?
11. How can you determine the area of parallelogram using vectors and what is meant by
right-hand rule?

FG
H

12. If a vector A is given at point P 3,

IJ
K

FG
H

IJ
K

, 10 and vector B is given at Q 1, , 5 in cylindrical

6
6

coordinates, can vector operations be performed without transforming into rectangular

coordinates?

13. Two vectors A and B are given in the spherical coordinate system at

FG 2, , 2 IJ
H 2 3K

and

FG 10, , 2 IJ . Can vector operations be performed without making a transformation from

H 2 3K
spherical to rectangular coordinates?
14. What do we mean by gradient of a scalar function?
15. What does the divergence of a vector signify?
16. What is the significance of a curl of a vector?
17. Which equations will you use to check if a vector is (a) continuous (b) solenoidal
(c) rotational (d) irrotational and (e) conservative? Give some real life examples for each
case.
18. How many vector surfaces does a thin sheet of paper possess if we assume that its
thickness 0?
19. Verify the commutative law for addition of vectors.

20. Show that the necessary and sufficient condition for two non-zero vectors A and B to be

perpendicular is that A . B = 0.
21.

Prove that two non-zero vectors are parallel if and only if their cross product is zero.

EXERCISE PROBLEMS
1. (a) Express u in spherical components and variables (b) Express ur in cylindrical
components and variables.
2. Given the vector in Cartesian coordinate that extends from P(r = 4, = 20, = 10) to
Q(r = 7, = 120, = 75) (a) Give the vector in spherical coordinate at M(x = 5, y = 1,
z = 2) that extends to N(2,4,6) (b) How far is it from A(r = 110, = 30, = 60) to
B(r = 30, = 75, = 125)?
3. A closed surface is defined in spherical coordinates by 3 < r < 5, 0.1 < < 0.3 , 1.2 <
< 1.6 (a) Find the volume enclosed (b) Find the distance from P1(r = 3, = 0.1 ,
= 1.2 ,) to P2 (r = 5, = 0.3 , = 1.6 ) (c) Find total surface area.

VECTOR ANALYSIS

31

4. Using the coordinate system named, give the vector of point A(2, 1, 3) that extends to
B(1, 3, 4) (a) Cartesian (b) Cylindrical (c) Spherical.
5. Find the value of Bz such that the angle between the vector A = 2Ux + Uy + 4Uz and
B = 2Ux 1Uy + BzUz is 45.
6. Vector A = 3Ux + 4Uy 5Uz and B = 6Ux + 2Uy + 4Uz extend out from the origin. Find
(a) the angle between A and B (b) the distance between the tips of vector (c) the unit
vector normal to plane containing A and B (d) the area of parallelogram which A and
B are adjacent sides?
7. Give the vector in Cartesian coordinates that extends from P ( = 4, = 10, z = 1) to Q
( = 7, = 75, z = 4) (a) Give the vector in cylindrical coordinates at M(r = 5, y = 1, z = 2)
that extends to N(2,4, 6)? (b) How far is it from A(110, 60, 20) to B (30, 125, 10)?

8. Find in cylindrical components (a) A unit vector P ( = 5, = 53.13, z = 2) in director

of E = z cos U z sin U + a Uz at P.
9. Given the three points M(6, 2, 3), N( 2, 3, 0) and P( 4, 6, 5) find (a) the area of
triangle they define (b) A unit vector perpendicular to this triangular surface (c) a unit
vector bisecting the interior angle of triangle at M.
10. Three points P1, P2 and P3 are given by (2, 3, 2), (5, 8, 3) and (7, 6, 2) respectively.
Obtain (a) the vector drawn from P1 to P2 (b) the unit vector along the line from P1 to P3.