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Plotting vector fields with a single variable

Version: 4.x & 5.x - Scientific WorkPlace & Scientific Notebook

Problem

Vector fields cannot be plotted if the vector contains an insufficient number of variables.

Explanation

The MuPAD computational engine included in Versions 4.x and 5 of SWP and SNB requires that vector fields have more than one variable. Two-dimensional vector fields plotted with Plot2D + Vector Field must have two variables. Three-dimensional vector fields plotted with Plot3D + Vector Field must have three variables.

Solution

You can plot vector fields that have too few variables by introducing dummy variables into the expression.

Instead of writing your expression as, for example, $(1,y)$, write it as MATH The MuPAD computational engine evaluates the value MATH as $0$, but assumes the $x$ is a second variable and plots the vector field correctly.

Last revised 01/20/06

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