Multivariable Calculus – Understanding Vector Fields

multivariable-calculus

Given that:
$$F = \langle yz-2xy^2, axz-2x^2y+z, xy+y \rangle$$
in which $a$ is some constant.

Now, for what $a$ would make the vector field of $F$ conservative? Why is there only one, or are there many? How can we find an $f$ with $\nabla f=F$? Also for what $a$ would $F$ be the curl of another vector field?

For to find for which $a$ the vector field is conservative, do we have to go through the process of finding partial derivative, or is there a much shorter approach. I don't know how to approach my other questions either.

Best Answer

In order to determine a so that $\vec{f}$ is conservative, you must find:

$$ \oint \vec{F} \cdot d\vec{l} = 0 $$

$$ \int _{x_1} ^{x_2} F_x dx + \int _{y_1} ^{y_2} F_{y} dy + \int _{z_1} ^ {z_2} F_{z} dz = 0 $$

For the second question:

$$ \frac{\partial f}{\partial x} = F_x $$

$$ \frac{\partial f}{\partial y} = F_y $$

$$ \frac{\partial f}{\partial z} = F_z $$

Now you must solve the set of partial differential equation.