Vector Calculus formula reference

Stokes’ Theorem

Relates surface curl to circulation around the oriented boundary.

Open in editor
LaTeX\iint_S(\nabla\times\mathbf F)\cdot\mathbf n\,dS=\oint_{\partial S}\mathbf F\cdot d\mathbf r

Variables

  • S: oriented surface
  • ∂S: boundary curve

How to use this formula

Relates surface curl to circulation around the oriented boundary.

Important notes

  • Boundary orientation follows the right-hand rule.

Quick example

For a planar surface, it specializes to Green’s theorem.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • Boundary orientation follows the right-hand rule.
  • Preserve matrix order and verify dimension compatibility; multiplication and inversion are not generally commutative or always defined.
  • Use a consistent orientation and coordinate system, and confirm the smoothness and boundary assumptions required by the theorem.

Worked example

Input

Output

For a planar surface, it specializes to Green’s theorem.

Common mistakes

  • Before substituting values into Stokes’ Theorem, map each variable to its definition and preserve every sign, exponent, subscript, and grouping mark.
  • Verify the result of Stokes’ Theorem with a known case, inverse operation, dimensional check, or independent calculation before publishing it.

Continue the workflow

Use Stokes’ Theorem in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in \iint_S(\nabla\times\mathbf F)\cdot\mathbf n\,dS=\oint_{\partial S}\mathbf F\cdot d\mathbf r.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

Frequently asked questions

What is the Stokes’ Theorem used for?

Relates surface curl to circulation around the oriented boundary.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy \iint_S(\nabla\times\mathbf F)\cdot\mathbf n\,dS=\oint_{\partial S}\mathbf F\cdot d\mathbf r or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

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