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MA35 Labs

1 » Single Variable Calculus

2 Two Variable Calculus

3 Three Variable Calculus

Polar Coordinate Labs

Two Variable Functions

Contents

1.1 Functions of One Variable

1.2 Differentiation

1.3 More Derivatives

1.3.1 Second Derivatives

1.3.2 Convexity and Concavity

1.3.3 Derivative Test

1.3.4 Taylor Series

1.3.5 Constrained Maxima & Minima

1.3.6 Decomposition of Acceleration

1.4 Integration

1.5 Fundamental Theorem of Calculus

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Decomposition of Acceleration (Page: 1 | 2 )

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We can approach curvature in terms of the circular images of the vectors T(t) and U(t). Since T(t) is a unit vector, it lies on the unit circle. So, there exists a function θ(t) such that T(t)=(cos(θ(t)), sin(θ(t))). Similarly, by the definition of normal vector, we have U(t) = (-sin(θ(t)), cos(θ(t))). Then,

T'(t) = (-sin(θ(t))θ'(t),cos(θ(t))θ'(t)) = U(t)θ'(t)

Entering this identity into the expression for acceleration yeilds X''(t) = s''(t)T(t) + s'(t)θ'(t)U(t). Earlier we defined the normal component of the accleration vector to be s'(t)2κg(t). Therefore, s'(t)θ'(t) = s'(t)2κg(t), or equivalently dθ/dt = (ds/dt)κg(t). Using an arclength parameterization, we then have

κg(s) = θ'(s)

This provides a definition of geodesic curvature in terms of the motion of the tangent and normal vectors on the unit circle.

Demos

Decomposition of Acceleration

This demonstration shows the decomposition of the acceleration vector at X(t0) into its tangential and normal components. It then graphs the geodesic curvature κg(t). In a third window, the unit tangent and and normal vectors are drawn in cyan and rad respectively. As you play the tapedeck for t0 in the control panel and the point X(t0) moves along the curve, notice how the speed of the tangent and normal vectors on the unit circle is related to the magnitude of the geodesic curvature.