Calculus through Data & Modelling: Vector Calculus

In this module, we define the notion of a Vector Field, which is a function that applies a vector to a given point. We then develop the notion of integration of these new functions along general curves in the plane and in space. Line integrals were developed in the early19th century initially to solve problems involving fluid flow, forces, electricity, and magnetism. Today they remain at the core of advanced mathematical theory and vector calculus.

In this module, we introduce the notion of a Conservative Vector Field. In vector calculus, a conservative vector field is a vector field that is the gradient of some function f, called the potential function. Conservative vector fields have the property that the line integral is path independent, which means the choice of any path between two points does not change the value of the line integral.

Conversely, path independence of the line integral is equivalent to the vector field being conservative. We then state and formalize an important theorem about line integrals of conservative vector fields, called the Fundamental Theorem for Line Integrals. This will allow us to show that for a conservative system, the work done in moving along a path in configuration space depends only on the endpoints of the path.