Vector Calculus

Course Overview

  • Line integrals
  • Surface integrals
  • Conservative vector fields
  • Divergence and Curl

Course Goals

  • For students to develop a geometric understanding of vectors (without components), including the dot and cross products.
  • For students to develop the ability to express vectors in standard coordinate systems and bases.
  • For students to develop a geometric understanding of the gradient, including its relationship to level sets.
  • For students to develop a geometric understanding of conservative vector fields, including their relationship to the gradient and to level sets.
  • For students to develop the ability to evaluate line and surface integrals;
  • For students to develop a geometric understanding of the curl and divergence, including their relationship to circulation and flux.
  • For students to develop the ability to evaluate the curl and divergence of a vector field in standard coordinate systems.
  • For students to develop a geometric understanding of the Divergence Theorem and Stokes' Theorem.
  • For students to appreciate the unifying thread brought to these topics by the use of a “use what you know” strategy starting from the vector differential.

Sample Syllabi

Activities Included

See this page.


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