Gradient, Divergence, and Curl Calculator

This calculator is designed for students and professionals who need to compute the gradient, divergence, and curl of vector fields in calculus. It provides accurate results and helps in understanding vector calculus concepts.

Enter Vector Field

Data Source and Methodology

All calculations are based strictly on the formulas and data provided from authoritative sources in vector calculus.

The Formula Explained

Gradient: Given by the vector of partial derivatives: \( \nabla f = \frac{\partial f}{\partial x} \hat{i} + \frac{\partial f}{\partial y} \hat{j} + \frac{\partial f}{\partial z} \hat{k} \)
Divergence: \( \nabla \cdot F = \frac{\partial F_1}{\partial x} + \frac{\partial F_2}{\partial y} + \frac{\partial F_3}{\partial z} \)
Curl: \( \nabla \times F = \left( \frac{\partial F_3}{\partial y} - \frac{\partial F_2}{\partial z} \right) \hat{i} + \left( \frac{\partial F_1}{\partial z} - \frac{\partial F_3}{\partial x} \right) \hat{j} + \left( \frac{\partial F_2}{\partial x} - \frac{\partial F_1}{\partial y} \right) \hat{k} \)

Glossary of Variables

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example

Consider the vector field \( F(x, y, z) = x^2 \hat{i} + y^2 \hat{j} + z^2 \hat{k} \). This calculator will compute the gradient, divergence, and curl of the given vector field using the above formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a Gradient?

The gradient is a vector that points in the direction of the greatest rate of increase of a function, and its magnitude is the rate of increase.

What is the Divergence?

Divergence measures the magnitude of a vector field's source or sink at a given point, in terms of a signed scalar.

What is the Curl?

Curl measures the rotation of a vector field. A curl of zero indicates the field is irrotational.

Can I use this calculator for any vector field?

Yes, as long as the vector field is defined in Cartesian coordinates.

What are some practical applications of these calculations?

These calculations are used in fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and more to analyze physical phenomena.

Tool developed by Ugo Candido. Content reviewed by the Technical Content Team.
Last reviewed for accuracy on: October 10, 2023.
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